Read MCN's review of the Pando Moto armoured base layer - "It's like a second skin"

6

The idea behind this armoured base layer from Pando Moto is that it is close fitting and comfortable enough to be worn underneath other clothing, while providing protection to the rider. I wanted to give it a go to see if it lived up to my expectations.

How comfortable is the Pando Moto base layer?

It’s remarkably comfortable due to it’s power-stretch Balistex fabric and SAS-TEC TripleFlex low profile armour that is so soft and flexible you almost forget that you’re protected.

It’s like a second skin; so fitted and lightweight that you feel like you shouldn’t be wearing it on a motorbike, yet somehow it has an AA CE safety rating with level 1 armour at the elbow and shoulder. I have also added the level 2 back protector for additional safety, this is sold separately.

It’s a unisex garment, but this isn’t an issue with fit due to just how stretchy it is, although I do find is that the thumb loops are too large for my hands, so they tend to just get in the way.

Is the Pando Moto base layer a practical garment?

I’ve worn it numerous times on its own as a summer motorcycle jacket, on occasions when the weather has been above 26 degrees or so, and it has proven to be very cooling when riding. It is worth noting however, that if the zip is not done all the way up the wind will catch it and it will unzip itself, less than ideal, but it is comfortable enough to be worn all the way up ( I usually don’t do my zip all the way to the top as I find it uncomfortable).

The only real downside to wearing it as a standalone garment is that there are no pockets for my earplugs, but this is only a minor thing. I’ve also worn it under a casual unarmoured hoodie as it is so snug that you can wear almost anything you like over the top of it.

I’ve also worn it under an A rated textile jacket in place of a separate back protector, my logic being that wearing the AA rated base layer underneath makes the textile jacket more protective as a layered system, and it is far more comfortable that the back protector that was supplied with the jacket.

I find that I do opt for this base layer and an additional layer in preference to some of my other jackets, thanks to how comfortable it is. A really versatile bit of kit.

Is the Pando Moto base layer good quality?

The quality has been outstanding so far, with absolutely no signs of wear and tear or colour fade. All seams are still strong and there is no bobbling or deterioration to the fabric. The zipper runs smoothly when putting the base layer on and off, the cuffs have also shown no damage from being stuffed in and out of various jacket and hoodie sleeves.

Does the Pando Moto base layer look good?

I personally quite like the look of it, the stretch fit isn’t too unflattering, and the simplicity is nice, with black being the only option. Thanks to its snug fit and low-profile armour it doesn’t make you look excessively bulky like some other motorcycle gear can do, and the seams have been made into a detail in their own right, which is quite a unique touch.  

How protective is it?

Considering just how light and thin it is, I think the protection offered is remarkable really, a CE rating of AA is good enough for most riding, yes AAA would be better of course, but you would sacrifice the super thin nature of the base layer to achieve this as I don’t believe fabric technology is quite there yet.  

Is it good value for money?

It’s not cheap, there is no avoiding that, but I think its versatility makes it worth it. You might not think twice about spending over £200 on a jacket, but because this looks so much less substantial, it kind of feels like it’s overpriced, however as I’ve mentioned before, I have worn this base layer on its own, under textiles and under a casual hoodie. This saves you needing to buy back protectors for each jacket and expands your options as you can wear non protective gear over it, so I think, it’s actually quite a good price.

The main competitor for this would be the Knox Urbane Pro MK3, which is around £250, slightly more expensive than the Pando Moto once you work out the conversion rate. The Knox is not quite as lightweight or stretchy as the Pando Moto, so it may be more of a struggle to fit it under some hoodies or other clothing that isn’t a little oversized. However, the Knox does have pockets, and the back protector is included, making it cheaper for the full suite of armour.

So what’s the verdict?

The Pando Moto armoured base layer has become a part of my everyday riding wardrobe, the level of comfort it offers is second to none and the fact that I can wear it underneath a wide variety of kit makes it a really handy way to get the protection I need when riding. I would happily spend my own money on this as a useful bit of all year kit.

- Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us.