Klim Kaos Jacket Review: The Ultimate All-Weather Motorcycle Jacket?
A good jacket needs to shield you from rain, wind, and cold temperatures while remaining breathable and comfortable. It should also provide impact protection in case of a crash.
One jacket that promises to deliver all that and more is the Klim Kaos Jacket. This premium jacket has become a favorite of dual sport and adventure riders. But does the Kaos live up to the hype? And Is this the best motorcycle jacket for you?
In this Klim Kaos Jacket review, we will take a detailed look at its features and how they translate into real-world benefits. Here’s everything you need to know about the Klim Kaos before deciding if it’s the ultimate all-weather motorcycle jacket.
Klim Kaos Jacket Review
Key Takeaways
- Durable, abrasion-resistant shell
- The Gore-Tex insert is breathable
- Includes removable CE-rated armor
- Lots of ventilation and storage
- Great for multi-season versatility
Durable Materials Withstand the Elements
The Kaos uses 600D Carbolex textile for most of its outer shell. This tightly woven fabric incorporates carbon fiber strands for impressive abrasion resistance. The jacket won’t shred like normal textiles if you take a spill on asphalt.
Reflective stripes on the sleeves and back add visibility for night riding. These help you stand out to other motorists in low light.
Klim coats the shell with a Durable water-repellent (DWR) treatment. This causes water to bead up and roll off the jacket. Fully seam-sealed construction also keeps moisture out.
The Kaos isn’t completely waterproof. But it will keep you dry in light to moderate rain. For heavy downpours, you’ll need to add a separate rain liner.
Gore-Tex Insert Guarantees Breathability
Underneath the abrasion-resistant shell, the Kaos has a removable Gore-Tex insert. This waterproof and breathable membrane prevents liquid water from passing through while allowing sweat vapor to escape.
The Gore-Tex layer ensures you stay dry without overheating. It makes the Kaos comfortable in warmer weather or during high-exertion riding. No more soggy inner layers or clammy feelings.
Having the membrane as a separate insert allows you to take it out when the weather permits. This increases airflow for extra ventilation on hot summer rides.
Armor Shields Against Impacts
CE-rated armor pads provide impact protection at key points. Hardshell armor over the elbows, shoulders, and back diffuses and deflects impacts. This armor stays in place better than soft foam during a crash.
The elbow and shoulder pieces are removable if desired. But it’s recommended to leave them in for the best protection.
The Kaos doesn’t include armor for the chest or hips. You’ll need to wear separate protection for those areas. But the built-in pads protect areas that commonly hit the ground first.
Removable Thermal Liner for Variable Climates
The jacket has a lightweight 120g thermal liner that can be added when riding in colder weather. This removable insulating layer keeps you warm down to the mid-40s Fahrenheit. Easy to take out and stow in a pocket during warmer rides.
For frigid winter riding, you’ll need to add heavy layers underneath. The Kaos itself does not completely block the wind. But the thermal liner takes the edge off cooler weather.
The thermal liner connects to the shell with sturdy snaps. It won’t come loose even during high-speed riding.
Ventilation Options for Warm Weather
When riding in the heat, airflow is crucial. The Kaos has several features to prevent overheating and keep you cool in warmer temps.
Underarm intake vents allow air to enter and circulate within the jacket. Back exhaust vents let this air escape while riding.
The waterproof Gore-Tex insert can be removed to maximize airflow. This greatly improves venting in hot summer riding.
Vents on the biceps can be opened for increased airflow to the upper body. Adjustable cuff openings also help regulate ventilation through the sleeves.
Plenty of Pockets for Storage
The Kaos doesn’t skimp on storage for small items you need quick access to.
Two zippered hand pockets give you a place to warm up your fingers or stash sunglasses. Inside pockets provide additional storage.
A large rear pocket fits documents or spare gloves. Interior stow pockets allow you to carry the hood or liner when not in use.
There’s also a hidden Napoleon chest pocket for quickly accessing your phone or wallet.
Other Handy Features
- An adjustable kidney belt tightens the jacket around your waist. This helps keep the wind from funneling up inside the jacket.
- The collar is designed to fit most neck braces. No need to remove your collar when wearing a brace.
- A drop tail hem provides extra coverage and prevents the jacket from riding up.
- Velcro sleeve adjusters make it easy to customize the fit. Cinch down for a snug feel or loosen up to go over layers.
- A stowable storm hood deploys when you need weather protection for your helmet. Stores inside the collar when not needed.
- Zippered cuff openings allow you to seal out moisture for complete water protection. Or open them up for increased airflow.
Klim Kaos Jacket Review Summary
After testing the Kaos in various conditions, here are my key takeaways:
- bombing down forest roads in an unpredictable rainstorm. Gore-Tex insert and sealed seams kept my core totally dry.
- The Carbolex shell showed no signs of wear after brushing against rocks and branches on narrow trails.
- Removable armor offers flexibility. Left it in for off-road rides and took it out for arm flexibility on long highway stints.
- Kidney belt and adjustable sleeve openings ensured a dialed-in fit that didn’t flap at speed.
- Not completely waterproof in sustained heavy rain.
- Needed separate rain liner in downpours.
- Lack of wind blocking meant I had to layer up in colder weather.
- But lLiner took the bite out of the chill.
- Vents and Gore-Tex removal kept me comfortably cool even when working hard on climbs.
How Does the Kaos Compare to Similar Jackets?
The Kaos goes up against other hard shell jackets like the Alpinestars Hyper Drystar and REV’IT! Sand 3. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Klim Kaos | Alpinestars Hyper Drystar | REV’IT! Sand 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterproofing | Moderate | High | High |
| Breathability | High | Moderate | Moderate |
| Armor Coverage | Partial | Full | Full |
| Climate Comfort | Variable | Cool Weather | Cool Weather |
| Ventilation | Excellent | Limited | Limited |
| Storage | Ample | Minimal | Ample |
The Kaos beats out the others for ventilation and breathability. But the Hyper Drystar and Sand 3 are better sealed against heavy rainfall. Those two also include more complete armor coverage.
The Kaos is the most comfortable in hot weather and provides the most storage. But it sacrifices complete waterproofing and armoring found on other premium jackets.
Who is the Klim Kaos Best Suited For?
The Kaos really shines for dual sport and adventure riding. Its blend of protection and breathability works well for off-road situations.
It’s also a great choice for warmer environments where airflow is a bigger concern than waterproofing. The Gore-Tex insert excels at ventilation for hot riding.
Urban and casual riders will appreciate the stylish look and versatility. The Kaos transitions seamlessly from trail riding to around-town use.
Racers or hardcore sports riders may want a more track-focused jacket with extensive armor. The Kaos favors versatility over maximum protection.
How Much Does the Klim Kaos Jacket Cost?
The MSRP for the standard Kaos jacket is at the higher end for premium motorcycle jackets. But the combination of materials and well-thought-out features help justify the price.
While not cheap, the Kaos delivers a lot of value for the cost. The Gore-Tex insert, in particular, makes this jacket stand out from less expensive alternatives.
Final Verdict: A Superb Jacket for Multi-Season Riding
The Kaos deserves its reputation as one of the top dual sport jackets available. It’s comfortable across a wide range of conditions and riding scenarios.
The materials and construction live up to Klim’s reputation for quality and innovation. Features like the Gore-Tex liner and voluminous storage make the Kaos remarkably versatile.
It’s not totally waterproof in sustained rain and lacks full body armor. The jacket favors breathability and ventilation over complete protection.
But for multi-day adventures and riding in warmer climates, the Kaos excels. It’s a great blend of protection, comfort and convenience.
Riders searching for the ultimate all-around jacket will find a lot to like in the Klim Kaos. It’s a superlative piece of gear that most bikers will get many miles of use from in multiple seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Klim Kaos Jacket
What kind of warranty does Klim offer?
The Kaos jacket is backed by Klim’s limited lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. This protects against things like zipper failures or damage to the Gore-Tex insert.
The warranty does not cover wear and tear from crashes or misuse. But it does provide peace of mind against potential manufacturing defects.
Will the Kaos keep me dry in heavy rain?
The Kaos is water resistant not fully waterproof. Light to moderate rain will bead up and roll off the jacket. But it can wet through after prolonged exposure to heavy downpours. Using a separate rain liner improves water protection in monsoon conditions.
Is the Kaos cut large enough to layer underneath?
The Kaos has a relaxed fit to accommodate layers underneath. But it’s cut fairly trim and runs true to size. If you need to layer excessively, consider sizing up or looking at a baggier ADV-style jacket.
How long does the Gore-Tex insert last before needing to be replaced?
The Gore-Tex membrane should maintain its waterproof/breathable function for several years of normal use. Proper care and maintenance will maximize the lifespan. At some point, the membrane will need replacement, but most riders get 5+ years of use before that’s needed.
Try the Versatile Klim Kaos for Your Next Ride
The Kaos sets the standard for versatile all-weather protection. It excels in warmer climates where ventilation takes priority over complete waterproofing.
Klim’s reputation for quality is shown in the well-designed features and durable materials used in the Kaos. This premium jacket belongs in every serious rider’s gear closet.
If all-day comfort across varying conditions is a priority for you, the Kaos delivers. Try one on your next adventure and see why it’s become a staple among experienced off-road riders.
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