In the realm of riding gear, most folks split jackets into two categories: leather or textile. But I include a third: waxed cotton. Okay, technically it’s a textile, but I’m talking about the look and feel. When I first saw the new Tour Master Rincon hanging on a display, I announced to the sales rep, “Oh, cool! That waxed-cotton jacket is new, isn’t it?” As we approached it, he told me, “Yes, it’s new. No, it’s not waxed.” Tour Master has come up with a three-quarter-length, black riding coat with the look I like, but it’s made from a tough, 320-denier nylon/polyester blend with an oiled-cotton feel. A vintage, weathered look in a new, low-maintenance, high-tech material? Sign me up.

The Rincon has a waterproof, breathable rain barrier that allows dryness without perspiration build-up. The main zipper closure with dual wind flaps seals out the elements. Phoslite black reflective piping and Tour Master’s reflective rear triangle make for increased nighttime visibility, a welcome feature, as the Rincon is only available in black.

Storage abounds; front and center are two vertical, zippered chest map pockets (which double as vents when you leave them open), zippered hand warmer pockets, four bellows pockets, four internal pockets and a dual-zippered fanny pack. I like the design of the pocket flap snaps as well: a hole-through design that grips a flush-fitting center post (visible in the detail shot). The waist belt adjusts the torso fit, and fastens with Velcro, as does the wrist cuff.

I consider the Rincon a three-season riding jacket, and wouldn’t use it on the hottest of days. Flow-through ventilation comes from the two aforementioned front map pockets, sleeve vents in the bicep area, and a rear exit vent. But where this riding coat shines is in keeping you warm and protected from the cold with its comfortable, microfiber-lined collar and cuffs, and zip-out quilted liner with polyfill insulation. RB

Long and deep front pockets are a great place to keep maps.

Hard Data

Tour Master
Rincon Textile Jacket
$200
818/880-0000
www.TourMaster.com