The Speed and Strength apparel company is putting out some innovative motorcycle wear. The company is aggressive in both its design and marketing.The Speed and Strength “Hell and Back” ST jacket is loaded with features. It is truly an innovative design. However, there is one nagging flaw that may prevent you from getting back from Hell.
The jacket is designed for sport touring (thus the ST in the name). It is well-armored with CE approved protectors in the arms and shoulders. Additionally, there are hard plastic external protectors at the shoulders. There is a dual-density foam back pad. The body of the jacket constructed of 600D, water resistant textile. It includes a fully waterproof and breathable liner.
Now, let’s cover those innovations. There are two notable features that add to the jacket’s versatility. First, there is a nice H2O system incorporated into a pouch in the front of the body. The hose is fed through a hole in the upper chest of the jacket, and the mouthpiece is well-designed. The other nice innovation is that the sleeves zip off at the upper arm revealing a mesh material that still retains the armor. With the sleeves off and the vents open, this thing really flows some air.
The mention of the vents brings up the potential flaw in this jacket. There are several rider reports of zipper failures with this jacket. This has not happened on my test jacket, but where there is smoke there is fire. I should note that I have the 2010 model of the jacket and most of the reports are with the 2009 version. What you will get with the Speed and Strength Hell and Back is a jacket that has a bunch of features that sport-touring and adventure-touring riders will find attractive. I just hope the zippers have been updated.
