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Throttle Closet
Full specification As published
MaterialPWR|Shell mesh with stretch panels
ProtectionCE Level 1 shoulder/elbow armor
LinerRemovable thermal inner jacket
ClosureWaterproof zipper with connection zip
WeightApprox. 1.1 kg (size M)
Mass1100 g as published
Coverschest, back, shoulders, elbows
Bench rank113 of 200 on this site
Jacket · Rank 113 of 200

REV'IT! Airwave 4 Jacket

by REV'IT

A mesh summer jacket for riders who want maximum airflow on hot commutes and tours while keeping CE Level 1 armor at the shoulders and elbows.

4.3 Rider rating 4.3 out of 5 Bench score 53/100
  • Mesh built for hot climates
  • CE Level 1 shoulder/elbow armor
  • Removable thermal inner jacket
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Specs taken from the manufacturer No paid placement Bought at retail
Verdict

The REV'IT Airwave 4 is a purpose-built summer mesh jacket that keeps riders cool during hot commutes and touring while offering CE Level 1 armor at the shoulders and elbows. Its breathable panels, adjustable fit and reflective printing make it a sound pick for warm-climate riding, though anyone needing all-weather versatility should plan on separate rain gear and possibly an upgraded back protector.

The Airwave 4 uses a PWR|Shell mesh construction with stretch panels to move as much air as possible through the chest, arms and back, which is the point of a dedicated summer jacket. CE Level 1 armor covers the shoulders and elbows, giving riders certified impact protection without the jacket losing its lightweight character. A removable thermal inner jacket extends its usable range into cooler mornings, and a waterproof zipper with a connection zip lets it pair with matching trousers for a more complete touring setup. At roughly 1.1kg for a size medium, it sits on the lighter end of the jacket category, which shows up directly in how little it weighs on the shoulders after a long ride.

In use, the mesh does exactly what it promises: airflow is strong even at low speed, which matters in traffic where a solid textile jacket turns into an oven. Weather and value scores are the lowest in its lineup, reflecting how little the shell does once rain or cold arrives without the liner zipped in. Adjustable straps at the waist, sleeves and collar keep the armor positioned correctly, and reflective printing across the front, back and sleeves adds a genuine visibility benefit at dusk. Multiple external and internal pockets, including a phone pocket, cover daily carry without extra bags. The connection zip also pairs with matching REV'IT trousers, giving riders the option of a more complete two-piece touring setup when needed.

This jacket suits riders in hot climates or summer-only wardrobes who already own separate wet-weather gear, rather than anyone wanting a single all-season jacket. The comfort and airflow scores are strong, but the weather score is genuinely low, and buyers should plan on pairing it with a rain layer rather than expecting the connection zip to handle serious weather. A back protector is usually an added purchase, and sizing runs slightly small, so trying a size up is worth considering. Riders who want one jacket for everything will be better served by a three-season design instead. Riders who want a single jacket to cover cold starts, rain and heat in one shell will be better served by a three-season design with a built-in waterproof liner instead.

What works
  • Excellent airflow suited to hot-climate riding
  • Lightweight mesh construction stays breathable all day
  • CE Level 1 armor included at shoulders and elbows
  • Removable thermal inner jacket adds cold-weather range
  • Reflective printing improves visibility after dark
  • Adjustable straps accommodate different body types
  • Waterproof zipper and connection zip add touring options
What doesn't
  • Mesh panels give minimal wind or cold protection without the liner
  • No dedicated waterproof membrane beyond the connection zip
  • Back protector is sold separately in most configurations
  • Sizing runs slightly small for some riders
  • Limited insulation makes it unsuitable for cold climates alone
Bench scorecard
Protection58Weather34Airflow53Comfort68Value53

Derived from this product's own specification, key features and owner-reported pros and cons, then adjusted by its rider rating. Same rules for every piece.

Key features
  • PWR|Shell mesh construction for airflow
  • CE Level 1 shoulder and elbow armor
  • Removable thermal inner jacket
  • Waterproof zipper with connection zip
  • Adjustable waist, sleeves and collar
  • Reflective printing for night visibility
  • Multiple external and internal pockets
  • Back protector pocket for an upgrade
Where it sits in jacket
This piece 53 Category median 52 Category best 65

Bench rank 22 of 50 in jacket. The median piece in this category scores 52; the best scores 65.

What it covers
headfaceneckchestbackshoulderselbowshandswristshipskneesshinsfeetankles

Feed this into the Gear-Up Builder to see what the rest of your kit still leaves bare.

Who it fits
  • Long days in the saddle, where fit matters more than a spec-sheet win.
Stack it against
Held Zeffiro 3.0Bench 65 · 4.6 ★
Klim Marrakesh JacketBench 62 · 4.6 ★
Klim Badlands Pro JacketBench 59 · 4.6 ★
Klim Induction JacketBench 54 · 4.6 ★