FirstGear Rush Tex Jacket - 2013 (SOLD OUT)

The 2013 Rush Tex is sized for the American market which is more full in the chest and shoulders than some European designs. We tried a size Medium jacket on Huey and an XL on Dewey (our Fit Check mannequins) and they fit just fine. You can see some shots of how they look by clicking the “View Larger Images” link above.

These jackets have Velcro straps at the waist to help customize the fit.

FirstGear publishes a chart which summarizes the max chest and max waist/belly (whichever is bigger) for each size and we’ve included that below. I found this jacket to have a shell size that was very comparable to other FirstGear street jackets, but this one seem to feel bigger on me since it does not have a removable thermal liner as part of the design. For that reason, I’m going to say that the jackets fit about 1/2 size larger than the chart indicates. So if you are at the lower end of a size range or between sizes, I’d advise to choose smaller.

FirstGear offers this jacket in tall sizes. The tall selection of each size adds about 1 1/2 to 2 inches to the torso and sleeve length. If you normally have to buy “talls” then these should work for you.

Need help measuring? Get it here.

For 2013, FirstGear tweaks the the Rush Tex jacket to simplify its overall design and make it more affordable. This jacket is made to keep out rain while breathing so that the jacket does not become uncomfortable and clammy like some non-breathable nylon materials might (such as a rain jacket). The breathable liner is installed between the jacket’s durable and abrasion resistant outer shell and the inside lining. You won’t be able to see it (unless you peer through the inside mesh liner), but it is there and ready to keep you dry. This “mid-liner” arrangement is about the best at keeping out water because there are no zippers or pockets that pass through the liner and therefore there are few ways for water to make its way in. This arrangement also cuts down the complexity and cost of the jacket. The only flip side to a mid-liner’s better waterproofing is the decrease in venting options. The jacket has a couple shoulder vents and a rear exhaust vent, but the air that enters and exits the jacket does so between the outer shell and the rainproof liner, so the air doesn’t travel directly over your skin like with other vented or mesh designs. Therefore the conclusion is this: not good for warm to hot weather…. great for mild and/or wet weather, good for cold/wet weather if you provide your own layering underneath. Other features to mention: this jacket has a two-way main zipper. It zips up from the bottom and allows the jacket to lay to either side of your lap when sitting which is a comfort option on longer rides. The waist of the jacket has Velcro strap adjustments to help get you a custom fit. For protection, there is CE approved armor for the shoulders and elbows, as well as a foam back pad; all of which is removable. They have also used a generous amount of reflective material on this jacket which will help keep you visible in the dark or during bad weather. We’ve got some good nighttime shots of the jacket that show how well this reflective material works. (Take the ’’View Larger Images” link above to see). For storage there are two hand warmer pockets on the front, and a document pocket, cell phone pocket, and map/cargo pocket on the interior. Overall, this is a lot of jacket for the money and it is sharp and easy to wear. For those who ride in mild temps with occasional rain, it will be your favorite! :: Paul, 09-17-12

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