Joe Rocket Turbulent Jacket Review

I recently tested the Joe Rocket Turbulent jacket to see how it performs in various weather conditions. My goal is to find a jacket that provides versatility, good protection, and comfort across multiple seasons.

After putting the Turbulent through its paces, here’s what I discovered about this jacket’s features and real-world performance.

But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the Kings Motorcycle Gear - best motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!

Joe Rocket Turbulent Jacket

Key Takeaways

• Good value for the price

• Versatile all-weather protection

• Effective cold weather insulationCheck Prices

Key Features and Specifications

Table of Contents

• Shell: Water- and abrasion-resistant treated polyester

• Lining: Polyester mesh; zip-out full-sleeve thermal liner

• Insulation: Laser-quilted taffeta with synthetic polyfill (75g)

• Armor: CE-approved shoulder and elbow armor (removable back pad)

• Ventilation: Chest intake vents; bicep, side, and back exhaust vents

• Closures: Heavy-duty front zipper; wide internal storm flap

• Pockets: 2 external, 1 internal

• Reflectivity: Reflective shoulder logos and piping

• Colors: Black, Black/Red, Black/Blue, Black/Grey, Hi-Vis Yellow/Black

Fit, Comfort, and Protection

I usually wear a size large jacket, so I ordered the Turbulent in XL to allow room for layering underneath. With the thermal liner zipped in, the fit is comfortably loose without being overly baggy or restricting movement.

The sleeve length is perfect, landing right at my wrist bone. The mandarin collar has a soft neoprene border that prevents any discomfort at the neck.

All of the zippers operate smoothly, and the hook-and-loop wrist and waist adjusters help fine-tune the fit.

The jacket allows great freedom of movement thanks to the articulated back expansion panels. The material doesn’t bind or bunch up during shoulder checks or while reaching forward.

The jacket includes removable CE-approved armor on the elbows and shoulders for impact protection. I prefer to have seen built-in back armor rather than just a pocket, so I plan to add an aftermarket back protector.Check Prices

Cold Weather Performance

I was able to thoroughly test the Turbulent’s cold weather abilities thanks to an unusually long winter in my area.

With temperatures dipping down to the teens (°F), I wore the jacket on snowmobile rides, morning commutes, and other cold weather outings.

The full-sleeve thermal liner adds a substantial level of insulation and wind blocking. With just a long-sleeve base layer underneath, I stayed warm and comfortable riding a snowmobile at 34°F. Adding a fleece layer or heated gear provides even more warmth for colder temps.

The jacket seals out the cold effectively thanks to the wide internal storm flap behind the zipper. No snow or wind made its way inside.

The neoprene-edged collar prevented any exposed skin discomfort. Overall, the Turbulent performed admirably as a winter jacket as long as I layered appropriately underneath.Check Prices

Ventilation Performance

Once spring arrived, I was able to test the Turbulent’s ventilation system in warmer weather. Starting out on a 50°F morning, I felt comfortable wearing just a t-shirt underneath. The Kings Motorcycle Gear - mesh liner helped air circulate to manage sweat buildup.

As the temperature climbed to 65°F, I opened the zippered chest and bicep vents, allowing decent airflow.

The snaps inside the chest vents are particularly effective at holding the flaps fully open. At 75°F, I started to feel a bit warm, but the side torso exhaust vents and back vent helped stabilize things.

Above 80°F, the jacket is still wearable, but I preferred removing the liner and riding with just a lightweight base layer underneath.

The Turbulent offers enough airflow to extend the comfort range into warm weather as long as you don’t have a long way to travel in direct sun.

Sizing & Fit

Measuring your chest, waist, and arm length is important to ensure the perfect fit for your new motorcycle jacket.

Measure your chest by wrapping tape around the fullest part of your chest, just under your armpits. This will give you an accurate measurement for selecting the right size.

For waist measurements, wrap the tape around your natural waistline around the top of your hip bones.

To measure your arm length, start from the base of your neck at the center of your spine, then along the top of your shoulder, down to your wrist bone.

Following these measurements will help you find the correct size of the Joe Rocket Turbulent Jacket and ensure a comfortable fit while riding.Check Prices

SIZE

CHEST (IN)

WAIST (IN)

ARM (IN)

SM

38-40

29-31

32

MD

40-42

32-34

33

LG

42-44

34-36

34

XL

46-48

36-39

35

2XL

50-52

39-42

36

3XL

54-56

42-45

36.5

4XL

58-60

45-49

36.5

5XL

61-63

49-53

37

Value and Comparable Options

The Turbulent carries an attractive price, which puts it at an attractive price point compared to similar jackets. The materials, construction quality, and included armor make it a great value for the cost.

The Joe Rocket Surgeon jacket offers an upgrade with 200g of polyfill in the liner for riders specifically looking for more cold-weather insulation. It matches the Turbulent’s versatility but comes in around $70 higher in cost.

The Icon Raiden DKR jacket is another good alternative with the ability to add insulating layers underneath. It costs a little more than the Turbulent but includes some premium components like D3O armor.

Ultimately, I feel the Joe Rocket Turbulent hits a sweet spot between protection, comfort, and affordability.

Riders looking for a single jacket to carry them through multiple seasons will find it provides fantastic versatility.Check Prices

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Turbulent jacket run true to size?

I recommend ordering one size up if you plan to layer heavily underneath in cold weather. Otherwise, it fits pretty true to size based on the sizing chart.

How is the sizing for tall or short riders?

Joe Rocket offers the Turbulent in Tall sizes (MD-3XL), adding 2 inches to the sleeves and body. Shorter riders can make use of the sleeve take-up straps and waist adjusters.

Does the jacket work well for commuting or touring?

Definitely, the storage pockets and visibility features make it a great commuting jacket. Thanks to the adjustable fit, it’s also comfortable enough for long days on the bike touring.

Can you wear armor underneath the shoulder and elbow pads?

The armor pockets are large enough to accommodate upgraded armor like D3O Viper pads underneath the included protectors.

Is the Turbulent fully waterproof?

The shell resists light rain, but it is not fully waterproof. You’ll want to add a waterproof riding shell on top for heavy rain.

Conclusion

The Joe Rocket Turbulent hits all the right notes for riders seeking a versatile, multi-season jacket. It transitions seamlessly from winter warmth to summer airflow thanks to its zip-out thermal liner and ventilation options.

The shell materials provide abrasion resistance and weather protection on top of the included armor. Comfort-focused features like the soft mandarin collar and articulated back panels enhance the fit and feel.

At just over $250, it provides outstanding value for money compared to similar jackets. Riders looking for protection, comfort, and versatility across changing weather conditions should consider the Joe Rocket Turbulent.