LS2 have expanded far beyond their motorcycle helmet roots and now offer a full range of technical riding apparel. The X-Master jacket and pants form a premium, adventure-style touring suit designed for genuine four-season use.
This is not lightweight commuter kit. It is aimed squarely at riders who cover long distances in mixed and often poor conditions, and who want an integrated solution rather than juggling separate waterproofs and thermals. Both jacket and trousers use a three-layer system comprising a robust textile outer shell, a removable waterproof liner and a removable thermal liner.
5.0 Price: £329.99 www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk
5.0 Protection: 4.0 Weather protection: 5.0 Quality: 5.0 Practicality: 5.0 Looks: 5.0 Value 4.0 Construction: High-density and comfort-stretch ripstop fabrics outer shell (jacket and pants) CE certification: Class AA (EN17092-3:2020) Armour certification: Jacket – Removable CE shoulder and elbow protectors EN1621-1:2012 Level 2. Compatible with LS2 CE chest protector and LS2 851 Level 2 back protectors.
Pants – Removable CE knee protectors EN1621-1:2012 Level 2 with adjustable positions; removable CE hip protectors EN1621-1:2012 Level 1. Waterproofing: Removable LS2 Sheltex Plus waterproof liner (inner or outer use), 15000 mm H2O waterproof rating, 12000 g/m2/24h breathability Thermal liner: Removable thermal liner (jacket and pants) Ventilation: Jacket – Large foldable chest vents, large back exhaust panel, dual sleeve vents
Pants – Integrated vent system Connection zip: YKK zip-to-pants Inner water drainage system Waterproof chest pocket Soft EVA shoulder protection Pre-curved sleeves IDEAL® magnetic front zip Camelbak-compatible Two hand pockets, and front and side pockets Reflective strips for night visibility Adjustable collar strap, easy-pull adjustable sleeves, and easy-pull adjustable hem Hook and loop cuff closure Neoprene comfort collar with silk mesh inner A standout feature of the suit is that the waterproof layer can be worn either inside the garment or over the top. That flexibility allows you to prevent the outer shell wetting out in sustained rain and makes drying easier at the end of the day.
I tested the suit over 1000 miles during early spring, including a few long days exploring the Jurassic Coast and the Cotswolds in steady rain with temperatures hovering between six and eight degrees and I was warm and dry all the way.
The first impression of the full suit is its weight. Jacket and trousers together feel substantial when you pick them up, and with thermal liners, waterproof liners and an airbag vest in the mix, gearing up is a deliberate process. This is not a quick throw-on outfit for popping to the shops.
On the bike, however, the weight becomes far less noticeable. The jacket feels balanced and the pre-curved sleeves sit naturally in the riding position. Over three-hour stints in cold, damp conditions, I experienced no restriction in movement and no discomfort from the collar. The high collar works particularly well in cold weather, especially when combined with a neck tube, sealing effectively against wind and rain.
The trousers are equally comfortable once riding. In temperatures around six to eight degrees at typical motorway speeds, I remained warm with no cold spots or draughts since the cut works well in the seated position.
One issue with the trousers is that, due to their weight…