Rev’It Tectonic review | Urban adventure all-weather textiles tested

Date reviewed: August 2025 | Tested by: John Milbank | Price: £499.99 & £389.99 (RRP) | revitsport.com

The Rev’It Tectonic jacket and trousers on review here sit somewhere between full-on adventure kit and urban riding gear, with an armoured mesh inner and a three-layer laminate outer that can also be worn on its own when off the bike. The protection levels are very good, and while there are some compromises, it could suit many riders looking for something practical and versatile.

I’ve been wearing the Rev’It Tectonic on my 2019 BMW R1250GS, 1999 Kawasaki ZX-6R and 2001 Honda VFR800 to find out if it’s any good…

Pros & Cons

The Rev-It Tectonic is a mesh jacket and trousers with waterproof outer layers

Construction and fit

As one of the first pieces of Rev-It kit I’ve reviewed, I have to say that I was very impressed with the apparent build quality and finishing. Both the jacket and trousers – inner and outer layers – seem really well put together with obvious attention to detail.

The Tectonic is a layered system: the mesh-based inner layer carries quality armour and is protective in its own right, while the outers are a three-layer laminate with accurate and well-applied seam taping. The inner and outer garments have their own pockets and can be worn independently, though the outers don’t have space for armour, so need to be worn with the inner, or on their own when off the bike. As lightweight kit for walking about in, the Rev’It Tectonic outers add a very real degree of additional value.

The hood zips down and acts as the collar, or can be deployed for use off the bike

Sizing is always very personal, but I ended up going for a size large jacket and extra-large trousers. Most typically I’m a size large throughout, but I was also at my heaviest when I got this kit, so had to go up a size in the trousers. I’d say that Rev’It garments appear to come in on the slightly snugger fit, but not excessively so – I’ve lost a few kilos already and find the XL trousers a touch baggy… with a few more cakes avoided I’ll be cinching the belt right up. Ultimately, always try any kit on for yourself before buying.

The Tectonic inner jacket has elasticated thumb loops to help keep the sleeves down, but I find them a bit long and the cuffs a little loose – I can pull them up around seven to eight centimetres with or without the elastic. I’d have preferred the sleeves to be a little tighter or adjustable, though that could make it a little harder to get off in the heat. Rev’It hasn’t included any Velcro cinching on the inner sleeves, which is likely to keep bottom layer as compact as possible.

With the hood stowed, it still appears to get in the way here, but as you can see on the bike later in this review, it doesn’t

The inner and outer trousers can be zipped together internally with a zip all around the waist, but most users will likely leave them separate for much of the time. The jackets can also be connected with a clever design that uses the main zip of the inner jacket to attach to a secondary zip inside the outer. The inner’s thumb loops come in useful when putting the outer jacket on as it stops the sleeves getting bunched up inside.

The outer jacket has a hood, which is an obvious nod to its urban influence, but while it isn’t removable and doesn’t pack away fully, a zip closes it off to stop it inflating in the wind or filling with water. Given that this kit is designed to be worn off the bike too, it does make it a more practical jacket in some ways.

Rev'It Tectonic Protection & Certification

The Rev’It Tectonic’s protection is very good, with the mesh inner layers offering the mid-level EN17092 AA performance for abrasion resistance, seam strength and tear resistance, as well as Level 2 (the higher impact performance) Type B (the larger size for better coverage) shaped and ventilated Seeflex armour made specifically for Rev-It at the shoulders, elbows and knees, which is also certified to offer consistent performance down to -10°C (T-) and up to +40°C (T+).

This temperature testing is surprisingly rare, but it’s not all Rev’It has done that must have added a significant cost to the gear… The shoulder and knee armour is left/right handed, meaning they’re a slightly different shape between the pairs for an even better fit and protection. I have to say that this is among the best armour I’ve seen supplied as standard with bike kit, and its cupped shape means it stays in place very well. I found it’s all located perfectly for me, and there are three height positions at the knees, as well as two at the elbows. Impressive.

Seesmart hip armour is also supplied, but to keep it thin and comfortable it’s Level 1, Type B with just the T+ certification. Still not bad, but Rev’It really set the bar high with the rest of the armour.

Leather patches on the insides of the mesh trouser legs helps grip the bike’s tank – another detail that shows the thought and expense that’s gone into this gear

There’s no back-protector as standard, but there’s a pocket in the back of the jacket for the Rev’It Seesoft Air Level 2 protector. This is a long, relatively narrow layered memory foam design that’s a bit longer than many, but also a touch narrower, meaning it’s only certified to offer protection for the central back (the CB marking), rather than the full back (FB). The spine is well protected though, and the difference in width between this and a full back D3O Viper for instance is marginal. Ventilation is good, but it’s a slightly stiffer design than some others. Still, it’s comfortable in use. It costs a not inconsiderable £46.99 at RRP, so keep that in mind when budgeting.

There’s also the option to fit Rev’Its £31.99 Level 1 Seesoft chest protectors into slots accessed via the two zipped internal jacket pockets. To reach Level 2, chest armour also requires a specific penetration test, so it’s rare to find in bike kit.

The Rev’It Tectonic’s outer layers are certified to EN17092 Level B, which means they’re waterproof outer garments only, with no armour or any promise of abrasion resistance. The additional material will add to the protection offered over the inner layers, but this is an AA-rated garment regardless of whether you wear the outer or not.

The Tectonic jackets can be worn with an airbag underneath if you go up a size, though make sure that the amour stays in the right place and of course check the guidance with your airbag (Rev’It recommends the Alpinestars Tech-Air 5, reviewed here). You can of course wear an airbag over the Tectonic if you prefer.

To find the best motorcycle airbag, check out our independent guide here.

Reflective details feature on the inner and outer jacket at the chest, sides of the arms and back, with the trousers also having them on both left legs, the rears (though this is hidden by the jacket), and the bottoms of the legs on the outer.

From April 21 2018, all new motorcycle clothing is deemed to be Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). To meet this legislation, it must be tested to a recognised standard. For more information on the new laws, click here.

Pockets

Starting with the mesh inner layers, the Tectonic jacket has a pair of good-sized vertically-zipped pockets at the waist, and another on the left chest, inside which is microfibre cleaning cloth clipped to an elasticated cord.

On the back of the jacket is a large map pocket, and inside are two horizontally-zipped pockets deep enough to easily swallow my large Google Pixel 7 Pro phone.

There’s plenty of space, and while it’s great that all the pockets are made of mesh to allow maximum airflow, if you get caught in the rain without the outer layers (as I did), expect your phone and wallet to get wet. I’d have liked to have seen one of the waist pockets – which don’t get much airflow anyway – being waterproof. Or perhaps a waterproof bag could have been folded up and stashed inside one pocket, to throw your valuables in if needs be.

The Rev’It’s inner trousers have a decent-sized pair of zipped mesh pockets at the hips.

When wearing the outer layers you won’t miss out on storage – the jacket has a pair of large, diagonally-zipped waist pockets with water-resistant zips and storm flaps, along with another on the left chest and a small pocket for a pass, credit-card etc at the end of the left sleeve. The map pocket is also repeated, and even bigger, though there’s only one internal pocket, which is on the right chest and just large enough for my phone.

The outer trouser pockets mirror the inners, but again with protective cover flaps and water-resistant zips.

In summary, there’s plenty of good-sized storage on the Rev’It Tectonic kit, though beware of getting caught in the rain without the outer layers.

Fastening

Chunky SAS-branded zips are used throughout the Rev’It Tectonic, with the outer trousers opening right up to the hips, making them very easy to step into.

The inner jacket and trousers can be zipped together with a 20cm-long zip on the rear for additional safety in a slide – if you’re using this, it’ll be easier to fasten it up before popping the outer jacket on.

Adjustment

There’s little adjustment in the Tectonic kit, but I wouldn’t say it’s lacking. The sleeves of the outer jacket can be cinched tightly against my wrists without any significant bulk, which is an excellent design that too many seem to miss. Equally, there’s space for them to go over my gloves in the rain.

The bottoms of the legs also cinch up fairly well, though the zip being carried with it does add bulk (not that you can feel it).

The outer trousers have a built-in belt that runs all around the waist with infinite adjustability, though if they’re too big for you, they will start to ruck up.

The inner trousers have a more slimline Velcro system on either side to minimise bulk.

Both jackets also have elasticated drawstrings at the hems, and there’s an elastic drawstring inside the collar that pulls it tight, or that cinches up the hood when it’s expanded – it’s a clever dual-purpose solution that works well, if being a little awkward to use as it’s inside the neck.

Rev'It Tectonic Ventilation

Without the waterproof top layers, The Rev’It Tectonic has – as you’d expect – excellent ventilation. However, in making a jacket that doesn’t look too ‘bikey’, compromises do lead to it not being class-leading.

The chest is perforated, and only around a third of the arms are mesh, but all of the material is breathable so while it doesn’t feel as light or free-flowing as, for instance, the Adventure Spec Supershirt 2.0 or Knox Urbane Pro, it does still allow a good amount of air to move around you.

There aren’t that many mesh trousers on the market, so the Tectonic pants are a great option for staying even cooler. It will depend on the bike you’re riding of course – on my GS I need to splay my legs a bit to get an extra blast of air in, or if I stand up I can really feel the benefit.

I often wear quality motorcycle riding jeans (find the best here), which can be great in hot weather, but these Rev’Its are even more cooling during the heat.

With the waterproof outers worn you don’t lose all ventilation. It’s of course limited, but the jacket has well-positioned vents on the upper arms that scoop in air on most bikes, as well as a pair of large exhaust vents on the back. If it’s not baking hot, this could be a good way to stay a little warmer in the Tectonic.

The outer trousers don’t have any vents.

The hood won’t be for everyone, but it does make for a more versatile jacket off the bike

Rev'It Tectonic Warmth

With both layers on, the Rev’It Tectonic can keep you reasonably warm thanks to the wind-stopping performance of the outer shell. It should serve you reasonably well in Spring and Autumn, but you’ll need to consider a base- and/or mid-layer when it gets chillier. Rev’It offers a large selection of options, or consider the Zerofit Heatrub Move reviewed here, or a mid-layer if it’s not too bulky. Mountain Warehouse, Regatta and Go Outdoors could be worth a look.

We’re all different, but I found enough space between the inner and outer to get a lightweight down jacket on, or my Keis heated vest.

Liner

The inner jacket and trousers have a comfortable mesh lining that doesn’t get too sticky in hot weather. The armour pockets are a smooth, stretch material that doesn’t seem to get clammy in use either.

It’s best not to wear cotton under motorcycle riding kit in any weather – a technical top or a dedicated base layer (like Zerofit’s Ice Skin) will help wick the sweat away a lot easier in the heat.

Waterproofing

The Rev’It Tectonic’s waterproof outer layers are undeniably well put together, and it’s great to see the extra expense spent in making them from a three-layer waterproof material. The outer is layer one, the waterproof membrane is layer two, then the extremely fine woven material that you can see on the inside when looking closely is layer three. This is called the ‘scrim layer’ and it’s vital for garments like this, which will see other material rubbing against them… without it, the membrane would soon get damaged.

This is a macro shot of the scrim layer, which protects the membrane inside the jacket and trousers

The seam taping is also very well applied, being well centred with no messy overlaps – this is clearly a quality production process.

When I first took the Tectonic out for an hour’s ride in very heavy rain I found that water got in at the neck, making my left shoulder and chest wet, but I later discovered the drawstring inside. This is very effective at pulling the neck tighter, though it’s not that easy to use – it’s best to pull it up before putting the jacket on and leave it there. The clever design turns the top edge of the hood into the back of the collar, though I would have liked to have had a soft neoprene rim here for comfort and better sealing. Easier adjustment would have been preferable too, though these would likely be at the expense of the hood.

Rain also managed to blow up under the waist of the jacket, making me wet there, though again I later found the drawstrings on the hem, which pulled the bottom of the outer jacket tighter against my waist, creating a much better seal.

Both arm vents did leak a little in the storm, the heavy rain finding its way in to make my biceps slightly damp.

In use, the hood doesn’t get in the way

Ultimately, the Rev’It Tectonic does a good job of keeping you dry. The slight water ingress as the arm vents mean I wouldn’t recommend it for an all-year round commuter, but this is targeting a different market, and the compromises won’t be an issue for many.

I’d suggest that it’s better not to connect the inner and outer jacket in heavy rain as the edge of the inner jacket then sits just inside the outer’s storm flap, so water getting in could wick past.

The Tectonic’s outer trousers open all the way up to the thigh, while still staying totally waterproof

One more point about the waterproof outer layers is that, while the jacket makes a great casual waterproof that’ll stand up very well when walking in the rain, both it and the trousers are more bulky to carry than traditional motorcycle waterproofs. But while a simple over-suit would be easier to store, it’d also be far less practical, it wouldn’t have pockets, it’d likely be much more sweaty and it wouldn’t work as a good standalone jacket for walking around off the bike (or just taking the dog out in the rain).

Cleaning

Both the inner mesh and outer waterproof layers of the Rev’It Tectonic are machine washable at 30°C, but as with all motorbike kit, remember to remove the armour inserts before washing. Don’t iron or tumble dry the Tectonic – just leave it to dry naturally in a well-ventilated area.

A Velcro loop area on the inner jacket’s left arm allows you to stick your own patches on if you want

Four alternatives to the Rev’It Tectonic

Rev’It has, to some extent, carved a bit of its own niche with the Tectonic, creating something that combines a cool urban look with some good levels of protection. What you choose will depend on the style of riding you do, but here are some others to consider…

• Adventure Spec Supershirt 2.0, £249 | The cool-feeling material of this lightweight top, combined with the Level 2 armour make it a great choice. There are no pockets though, so keep that in mind! For hot weather it’s a great option. Read the full review of the Adventure Spec Supershirt 2.0 here.

• Rev’It Sand 5, £439.99 & £349.99 | If you’re looking for something more adventure capable, and that will keep you totally dry, the Rev’It Sand 5 is an awesome bit of kit. I’d still suggest that it’s not ideal for a commuter as the outer will get soaked due to the design, but it’s the best adventure suit I’ve tested. Expect a full review very soon here at Bennetts BikeSocial.

• Knox Urbane Pro, £259.99 | Offering great ventilation and decent (if not as good as the Rev’It) armour, the AA-rated Urbane Pro can also be combined with other layering options. Read the full review of the Urbane Pro here.

• Weise Scout, £139.99 | Rated to the AA-level, the Weise is very well ventilated for hot summer rides, but not designed to be worn under other kit. At the price though, it could make a good option just for the hot weather. Check out our review of the great value Weise Scout here.

These are just three of many alternatives – you can find all the textiles we’ve tested here  and be sure to regularly check for the discounts available through Bikesocial membership.

Rev’It Tectonic review: Verdict

Layering motorcycle kit isn’t a new idea, but it’s not been that well embraced by many riders. With more options now on the market – and summers getting hotter – the benefits of an armoured bottom layer that can also be worn with windproof and waterproof kit when needs be is getting more attractive.

This kind of system isn’t as convenient or as effective as having a separate high-quality commuting outfit, but it’s potentially a great choice for urban and beyond riding, with the Rev’It Tectonic benefitting from a good AA rating for abrasion, seam strength and burst resistance, as well as what is class-leading armour.

Separate alternative gear can provide better ventilation and more effective waterproofing (at a cost), but Rev’It has done a good job of balancing the compromises in order to create an all-in-one garment that will provide all the performance that a large proportion of riders need, in a stylish, well-put-together piece of kit.

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