Rukka ComfoRina review | Four stars for luxury jacket after 4728 miles on test

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Rukka don’t do a wide range of motorcycle jackets, and to be honest, they’ve had no need to as their jackets, for the most part, do what they say on the description. Of course, Rukka is at the top end of the motorcycle clothing market, but the Comforina is the more affordable option for women looking for a Rukka-branded jacket.

How comfortable is it?

Overall, the Comforina is comfortable, even on long rides despite its tough fabric and winter-fighting bulk. If there was any criticism, I guess all I could say is that with a neck tube, there may be a bit of a squeeze around the neck to do the jacket up fully – but make sure you do else you’ll get a breeze through the gap in the zip at the top.

But if it’s done up properly it couldn’t be cosier! The wrists have Velcro adjustments and are very spacious when undone so there’s no issue getting the sleeves over gloves, plus it’s easy to keep the breeze out when they are done up.

The Jacket also zips to the trousers in a full circumference which means you’re likely to stay warmer and more protected and overall, more comfortable on the road, and the soft neoprene in the collar is fantastic.

Is it practical?

For a textile jacket, you have to be prepared for a bit of heft as you’ll be battling with waterproof material (a Goretex Z Liner membrane) as well as armour in all the necessary places. But if you haven’t got a load of base layers on underneath (which you shouldn’t need unless the weather is particularly bad) then it’s easy to take on and off.

The internal pockets are deep and ideal for keeping phones/other valuables dry as the outer pockets are only water resistant. But with removable thermal liner that is effective as well as vents along the side of the jacket which give you a bit more airflow if the weather does get warmer, but don’t be fooled, this jacket is definitely suited to the grislier British weather.

Does it look good?

I’m not usually a massive fan of textiles, but for this jacket I’ve made an exception. The non-fussy black fabric is great for an all-round jacket and the reflective piping has been placed in a non-disruptive but effective way. I also quite like the reflective detailing on the arms.

Of course, you still have a few logos dotted around the jacket (Gore-tex, D30, Cordura Stretch, Rukka) and while I think they are disruptive to the overall look, I don’t think they are a deal breaker and of course, helpful if you’re looking for a jacket on the rack.

What’s the quality like?

I’ve lived with this jacket for over a year now, and battled through the British weather throughout winter, and it still looks as good as new. The quality is top notch, from the cuffs to the zips and even the internal liner has decent fastenings to keep it in place. I can see this jacket lasting for a few years yet, and that confidence is shared with Rukka as you can extend the warranty from 2 to 6 years free of charge at time of writing.

It’s waterproof, even in the worst weather, and the addition of the stormproof collar means that you’ll even stay dry from those pesky raindrops that try and get in through the top of your zip.

Protection and CE ratings

This Rukka jacket is rated to CE Level A, the lowest of the three levels for abrasion and burst performance, but it does sport Level-2 D30 armour in the elbows and shoulders, as well as a Level 1 D30 back protector, which is a great confidence builder for the ride. Although it’s only certified at a single-A rating, the fabric itself is thick and seems like it would handle taking abrasion well, which also gives me confidence.

Does it offer good value?

There’s no getting around it, at nearly £700 RRP it’s not the cheapest motorcycle jacket on the market. But, for a jacket with 6 years of warranty attached to it, I’d say you definitely get your money’s worth. For the same sort of quality (although there aren’t always women’s clothing to choose from), you’ll be looking at brands like Richa, Klim or Dainese. Of course, if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative that still delivers waterproof rides, then look into the likes of Oxford.

Other options to consider

Final thoughts

As an all-weather rider, I know how important it is to have the right kit, and this Rukka Comforina jacket is definitely the right kit. Suited to cooler temperatures, it keeps you warm, waterproof and the styling isn’t too in your face. But if the weather were to suddenly change, simply take out the thermal lining and open the vents and you’ll be comfortable in the spring too.

It’s rated with CE level 2 protection, and the D30 armour in the back, elbows and shoulders comes as standard unlike some other brands. But the big plus point for the jacket is the quality – it’s impeccable. It stays waterproof, looks great, zips and pockets work, and with a six-year warranty you’ve got that extra peace of mind that you really need when you’re parting with that much cash.

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