Sunday, 9 December 2012

The Belstaff Trialmaster: Reviewing an Iconic Jacket

By Robert Greenfield


In 1948, Belstaff introduced one of the most iconic and legendary motorcycle jackets of all time: the Trialmaster. It is one of Belstaff's most popular jackets, and has been worn by many famous and iconic people. Today, Belstaff offers a new version of the Trialmaster jacket that stays true to the classic original that has stood the test of time.

Since 1948, the Trialmaster jacket has been worn and loved by thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts, racers, and icons. Champion racers like Sammy Miler and Phil Reed have worn the jacket while competing. On his epic motorcycle journey across South America, Ernesto "Che" Guevara also wore one. Even Hollywood icons and stars have been fans of the jacket; most notably motorcycle racer and actor Steve McQueen.

While Belstaff discontinued the original version of the jacket, the new version is almost exactly the same, and has many of the great features found in the original. The Trialmaster is made from Belstaff's signature cotton fabric that is triple waxed by hand to give it an old-school look. Another plus of the jacket's waxed cotton fabric is its ability to repel water and the fact that it looks even better over time.

Like the original, the Trialmaster's shoulders and elbows are re-enforced to give the rider extra protection. To help keep any rain and wind out, the jacket features a throat latch and cuffs with triple snaps. Lining the inside of the jacket is Belstaff's heritage check fabric, which has lined Belstaff jackets since 1948. Another benefit of the check cotton lining is that it dries quickly when wet.

To help the jacket breathe and ventilate, Belstaff placed aerators under the jackets arms. The corduroy lined cuffs and collar provide extra warmth and comfort; Belstaff even offers a separate liner made of quilted down that can be purchased and snapped into the jacket. The ring zipper pull has raised edges for easy gripping and is made of brass. Also, the jacket has four bellows pockets that are large enough to carry personal items without being bulky.

The Trialmaster jacket is featured in Belstaff's Legends Collection, a line of legendary jackets, and is available for both men and women. The Men's jacket comes in sizes XS, S, M, and L, and in the color Black. The Women's jacket comes in sizes 38, 40, 42, and 44, and in 3 colors: Navy, Military, and Mahogany.

In the inside of the jacket is Belstaff's iconic patch, a Commemorative 1948 metal plaque, and a Union Jack label. On websites like Ebay, you can find vintage and original editions of the jacket; there are also other websites that sell the original model of the jacket. Some vintage and used editions go for incredibly high prices, as they are rare and sought after by collectors.

The Belstaff Trialmaster is a classic and stylish jacket that has been a favorite of motorcycle enthusiasts the world over since 1948. Made from quality hand waxed cotton with handsome brass components, heritage check lining, and spacious bellows pockets, it is a versatile jacket for the road and the city. It is the perfect jacket that provides you everything you need: good looks, durability, and superior protection.




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