New Klim Badlands and Latitude Gear 

Klim Badlands Pro Jacket $899

 

It seems hard to believe that it was not even two years ago that we were testing the first Adventure bike gear from Klim. Things have come a long way in just a short time for the boys from Idaho. For me, the first time attempts were a love/hate affair.

I was blown away by the first Adventure Rally suit. It made a bold attempt to do everything, sort of a “including kitchen sink” concept. But honestly, I just didn’t like it. It was just too much stuff. It was big, bulky and heavy. I should say that what I tested was all pre-production, so some issues I had were cured before the public ever saw it. Then, as it turns out,  some of the things that I disliked, tuned out to be pretty popular with other riders, so that just shows how much I know.

Then right behind that came the Traverse suit. For the last two seasons this has been my first choice for any riding that might include moderate, cold or wet conditions. I just love it. It is light weight and functional. Out on the road, this is my primary piece of gear, spending 15 hour days in it is no problem. It is just as at home on the highway as it is in the dirt. The D30 armor gives it the protection needed without adding too much bulk or hindering comfort. My only wishes for the Traverse suit are better pocket designs and a more fitted cut on the jacket.

Klim has become a major player in the ADV market practically overnight. At a recent Rally I noted that nearly 50% of all the participants were using at least one item from the Klim catalog. Now comes the introduction of two completely new suits, the Badlands and Latitude. I can’t wait to get some riding time in each.

For now, here are a couple of photos of the new swag.