At a price of Rs 8,999, the Raida Frigate Jacket offers a lot more than expected
The Raida Frigate is a budget-friendly riding jacket that has become popular amongst motorcyclists in India. After using it for over 2 months across city rides, weekend trips, and highway runs, here’s how it has been performing in the long run.
Build and Fit
The Frigate jacket is made from a mix of 600D polyester and mesh material, which is quite durable. So far, it feels strong and well-built, and even after months of regular use, it hasn’t shown any major wear and tear. The stitching is solid, and the zippers still work smoothly.
It fits true to its size and feels comfortable once worn. The adjustable straps on the arms and waist let you tighten or loosen the jacket depending on your body type. It also has quite a natural riding position, thanks to the curved arms and stretchable build near the elbows. There’s no loose flapping at high speeds, which is great for highway rides and also doesn’t look odd.
Comfort and Ventilation
In my opinion, the Frigate jacket seems to be perfectly made for Indian weather. It has large mesh panels on the front, back, and sleeves, which allow good airflow while riding. The jacket is quite well ventilated and does not feel excessively hot while riding in peak Pune summers. I was not able to test in winter conditions, but Raida does provide a separate thermal liner with the jacket, and it should work well in keeping you warm.
Overall, the jacket does not feel excessively heavy or bulky. It also doesn’t restrict your movement while riding. However, I found the neck area to feel a bit rough during very hot days, and some riders may find it slightly irritating over time.
Protection
For the price, the level of protection the Frigate jacket offers is pretty impressive. It comes with CE Level 2 armour on the shoulders, elbows and for the back along with level 2 protection for the chest. The armour comes snugly fitted and stays in place well, while not feeling uncomfortable, even after hours of riding.
The outer fabric can handle regular riding and minor falls, but it may not be ideal for high-speed crashes. It also includes reflective strips to help you stay visible at night, though a little more visibility would have been better in my opinion.
Should You Buy One?
If you’re a commuter or someone who enjoys weekend rides and touring, for Rs 8,999 the Raida Frigate provides great value for money. It offers good comfort, solid airflow, and pretty decent protection for the price. It’s a good entry-level jacket for Indian riders and is built to handle daily use.
While a more premium jacket could offer slightly better materials and protection, it would also cost a lot more. That said, for the price, the Raida Frigate delivers more than expected. So, if you’re on a budget but want a comfortable, well-ventilated, and protective riding jacket, the Raida Frigate is a smart choice. It’s reliable for everyday use and light touring, and it won’t disappoint over time.
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