I’ve been on the road to test KLIM’s latest generation of the women’s Altitude suit—riding in the deep-seated hope it will exceed my expectations, wants and needs as a long-distance female biker.

With my curiosity antennae up to determine whether the suit could respectably hold its own in myriad conditions and wilderness environments, especially during a quest for grey whales in Southeast Alaska, I concluded my examination through Canada. Over a 5,000-mile assessment on and off road, the elements have had the nonstop pleasure of putting the Altitude through its paces.

As a slim rider at 5 feet 5 inches, the Altitude gives rise to an American fit working with, as opposed to disregarding, a woman’s curves and contours. Unlike a handful of culprits still out there, my body can vouch that the Altitude is a world apart from a man’s suit.

Jacket: KLIM presents the jacket as women's wear in a range of regular sizes (small to 2X), where it factors in the gender difference in circumference of the chest and upper arm. Whether I’m standing on the foot pegs or sitting, the jacket hugs and works with the movement of my body. It’s anything but bulky, nor does it billow or look like I’ve come dressed in my partner’s riding garb.

Pants: The pants come in U.S. sizes size 4 to 10. Wonderfully, they also accommodate both shorter as well as the taller leg lengths. Furthermore, they’re not too wide in the upper leg or overly baggy in the backside, although they do have a rather pronounced boot cut and no fastener, which during cooler temperatures invites drafts up the legs. The pants are low-rise, which works well with the longer jacket—connected by a zipper around the back—to prevent any chills racing up the torso.

There are times when it’s impractical to abandon the motorcycle gear to experience something interesting on foot. Hiking a couple of miles clambering over and sliding down rocky terrain, with some scree thrown in for good measure, proved an easy endeavor in various mountainous regions. Simply, the trousers and jacket are built for the long haul with an endless supply of ruggedness.

For me, the finishing touches distinguish a great riding ensemble from a fairly good one. The jacket is equipped with a micro-fleece-lined collar, which feels comforting around my neck, and I especially appreciate the off-center collar cinch. This eliminates any flapping in the wind when riding in warmer weather.

One of the hallmarks is the breathable GORE-TEX Three-Layer and Two-Layer performance shell. The difference between the cake tiers is this: On the Three-Layer, the membrane is bonded to both the outer fabric and an inner lining stopping friction and movement, and consequently excess wear and tear, across all layers of the laminate. A Two-Layer is simply two laminate components: an outer fabric and a GORE-TEX membrane. Between the zippers and GORE-TEX, rain, damp and moisture are all a non-issue. Overall, the suit stays free of taking on water and I remain dry without having to stop riding.

The Altitude enjoys a wealth of openings to keep us sane in searing temperatures. There are two large openings on the front of the pants and a matching pair on the backs of the thighs. Two respectable chest vents, two bicep arm intake vents and two vertical back exhaust vents on the jacket afford the suit an unparalleled degree of ventilation.

In addition to two hand pockets, there are five internal pockets: two zippered, two mesh stash and one hidden passport. There’s even a small pocket on the left forearm, against which you’ll find an international emergency symbol. Inside the pocket or available upon request, there’s information to register your jacket and details online. You’ll receive an ID card to stow in the forearm pocket, which can be swiped in any hospital around the globe, upon which they can access all your medical information, contacts and so forth.

The Altitude is loaded with the latest safety technology. The D3O Evo armor appears on the back, elbows, shoulders, hips and knees. Coupled with the armor, the 3M Scotchlite Reflective material detailing on the front and back of the suit all project excellent visibility at night—further improving protection from danger, risk or injury.

KLIM has made strong headway in streamlining the fit and finish of riding apparel for ladies. It’s a two-piece that articulates well on the bike. What’s more, the jacket and pants reach impressive heights of workmanship, where mindful components showcase the engineering and experience that have gone into it. Having lived in the suit for some time now, the Altitude also offers day-long comfort for all-weather riding and without question, brings a refreshing style into the motorcycling realm.

As a nomadic traveler currently riding up and down the Americas, the suit represents a sound investment and has become my preferred choice. It doubtless will be for many years to come. MSRP: Jacket $599.99 | Pants $499.99–$529.99 KLIM.com

Where to Buy:

Jacket	Pants

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