The Italian motorcycle clothing manufacturer Tucano Urbano first introduced the Pol jacket back in 2015, but this summer they’ve updated it, launching the Pol 2G, a jacket that they say is “Classic and timeless in style, the perfect jacket for everyday wear, on and off the bike.”
I admit this is not an ‘adventure’ garment, inasmuch as it’s single colour and isn’t full of vents, but I also admit that I really like it. I only got this a month ago as something to use when I go into town on errands or when my journey is 20 or 30 miles for a meeting, but damn it’s nice.
The diamond quilted pattern across the shoulders and elbows, the neat round collar and wax-cotton appearance all pay homage to trials jackets of half a century ago. Whether I’d travel long distances through climatic variation in this Pol 2G is debateable as it doesn’t have a luxurious thermal liner, but I’m wearing it more and more when I leave the house, whether I’m riding or not, and I hope that says more than just that I’m vain and hope some of the style rubs off on me…
It is lightweight and immediately feels more ‘fashion’ than ‘function’ when you pick it up, but it’s fully CE-Class A certified in accordance with directive prEN17092. This ensures it has been independently tested for rip, tear and abrasion resistance, as well as impact force absorption, without limiting the rider’s movements on the bike. On some of the bikes I’m fortunate enough to have access to, the top of the sleeves do pull against my biceps limiting movement a smidge, but it’s related to bar height and stretch. Maybe the next size up would suit better, except that it fits so well in every other aspect, especially sleeve length and press-stud cuff closure. What’s well thought out here too, is that the cuff width adjustment is set with studs, but an easy open zip provides quick and easy access.
The removable armour for shoulders and elbows is discreet and doesn’t make me look like an American footballer, which is another reason I like it off-bike. There’s a pocket for back armour but that’s not provided as standard.
As for other pockets, outside there are two large ones on the chest that close with press studs and aren’t guaranteed waterproof and two lower handwarmer-style ones that do close with a waterproof zip. Inside there are two huge pockets and a smaller zipped ‘wallet’ one which is easily accessible just inside the main zip.
There’re also ventilation zips on the chest, or at least under the arms.
As if to truly impress the off-bike nature of the design, there are reflactive strips on neck and cuffs which fold away when not in use. It’s a great idea, as long as you remember to expose them at night!
The only downside I can foresee is that the teeth on the main closure zip are very fine and there’s a risk they won’t take daily abuse. That’s something I will update you on in time.
Available in black and khaki colours, the new Pol 2G comes in sizes S-3XL with RRP £159.99.
For more information, see Tucano Urbano
