Cortech VRX 2.0 Jacket (SOLD OUT)

We checked the sizing of this style with our Fit Check mannequins Huey and Dewey. The mannequins are wearing size Medium and XL jackets respectively which are their “usual” sizes. The fit of the jackets is snug. We also measured a selection of jackets and confirmed that they run about one size smaller than most US branded gear, so that means most people will find a fit by buying one size larger than they normally would choose. Just for reference, we are finding the fit of most new 2017 gear from both the Tour Master and Cortech brands to run about one size smaller than in past years.

Given the snug sizing issue, we highly recommend that you measure your chest and belly and confirm your size choice based upon your measurements. The chart below shows the measured max chest and belly for each size jacket. The figures in the chart come from our measurements of jacket samples. Our finding also match up with Cortech’s latest size chart for apparel introduced in 2017 and later.

These jackets taper moderately from chest to waist… about 3”. If you have a bit of a belly, just make sure the size you choose is big enough for your belly as well as your chest. For example, we list the size XL as a 44 max chest and so the max belly for that jacket would be about 41. If your belly/waist is smaller than this, it shouldn’t be a problem because the jackets have a lot of adjustability in the waist.

Need help measuring? Get it here.

This new Cortech VRX 2.0 jacket is a nicely styled textile style with a good deal of climate control features… zip vents for warm weather and a removable thermal liner for colder weather. It also has a “fixed” rain liner to keep water out. The styling is neutral enough for almost any style of street riding.

I mentioned the “fixed” waterproof liner. The liner is fixed in place between the jacket’s outer shell and the inside nylon lining. A fixed liner works really well and is convenient for those who are in rain frequently. Because it is not removable, there is nothing to remember to bring along and being a fixed liner with no openings like zippers, etc, it has few reasons to leak on you. The flip side is that a fixed liner does not allow for air to flow through the jacket’s zippered vents directly to your skin, so the venting capabilities are muted as compared to other designs. So even though this jacket has zippered vents in front and back, I would recommend a jacket like this for cold to warm weather but not hot weather. To keep warm, the jacket comes with a removable thermal liner that covers your sleeves as well as your torso. And along with the solid textile shell and fixed rain liner, it should do well to keep you warm.

This jacket comes with a full set of armor for the shoulders, elbows and back so there is nothing else to add in that regard. The shoulder/elbow armor that comes with the jacket is comparable with other good quality jackets. The back protector is reasonably substantial but not CE rated… not the worst, but not the best either.

The snugness of the sleeves is adjustable with Velcro straps so you can keep the armor in the right place. In the lower rear area of the jacket’s body, there is a short rear zip compatible with Tour Master or Cortech pants, and the zip comes with the mating half you can use to adapt pants you already have to zip to the jacket.

Other nice features I see are a good selection of pockets (see our photo gallery to see those), and I like the way the sleeve ends and collar are finished out with soft material that should be easy to break in without discomfort. The styling and color choices are good too. I think this jacket is a good value for the money with a better than average feature list and nice styling as compared to other jacket in this price range. :: Paul, 12-19-17