Dainese Rapida 72 Perforated Leather Jacket

We measured a selection of these jackets and also tried them on our Fit Check mannequins Huey and Dewey to see how they fit. Huey is wearing a Euro 52 and Dewey is in a 56 which both look great.

This product is sold in European sizes. Generally speaking, the US chest size in inches is equivalent to roughly 10 points less than the European jacket size. Example: a 56 Euro jacket will fit like a size 46/XL men’s US size. But this jacket runs a bit more snugly… I’d say about 1/2 sizes small as compared to most others. I’d estimate the US chest size to be about 11 points lower than the Euro size. I’d suggest you measure yourself with a tape and get your chest size and belly size, then use the size chart to pick the smallest size jacket that will be big enough for both your chest and belly using the chart below. Approximate US alpha sizes are also listed in the chart so you can check if the jacket size you choose is the same alpha size as you normally wear in men’s clothing.

I’d call the overall cut of this jacket “sport casual”. It is meant to fit snug, but it doesn’t taper nearly as much as sport/race jackets. The difference between the max chest and max belly is about 1”-2”. With sport/race jackets the “drop” from chest to waist will be more like 4” to 8” depending on the model. The overall fit if this style is much more forgiving and will fit a wider range of body types.

Sizing tips for upgrading armor: If you plan to add a back protector add 1” to your measured chest/belly size before using the size chart.

Need help measuring? Get it here.

The Dainese Rapida 72 jacket is another great closeout deal we’ve brought in for you. The Rapida 72 is another model in Dainese’s retro/cafe inspired “Settantadue” line (Italian for ‘72). This jacket is all leather and is offered in either a solid or perforated version. The Rapida 72 comes with Dainese Pro-Armor in the shoulders and elbows and includes a compartment for a back protector which is optional.

These are really nice leather jackets folks… the quality of the leather is just outstanding. And the build quality is top notch too. But these jackets aren’t just for looking good. The leather is competition weight and will give you abrasion protection for motorcycling. This particular style is a bit more subdued than some of the others in this series. The white and red strips on the forearm give some color, but otherwise, these are jet black leather. Of course a good looking leather jacket will be a favorite on the bike, but most people will enjoy wearing a classic style like this off the bike as well.

The perforated leather version is sold on this product page and you can take the link below to view the solid leather version. Both versions offer the same fit. It’s worth noting that some of the other jackets in this retro series run a bit smaller than this one, but in recent years, Dainese has adjusted the fit and this jacket fits more like more recently introduced models like the 8-track and Bardo. Just have a look at our sizing advice to make a selection.

Of course, the solid leather jacket will work best for those riding in a cooler temp range where the perforated version is better for warmer weather use. One thing I really like about the perforated jacket is how the micro-perforations cover nearly the entire jacket except for the leather right near the seams. It’s a sharp look, but also adds to the jacket’s sturdiness. Where the jacket is stitched together is solid leather which is stronger than the perforated leather. That treatment is even done around the pockets and main zipper too.

These retro jackets are equipped with a modern armor system. The armor included for the shoulders and elbows is their new Pro-Armor type which is the honeycomb molded rubber you see from many premium brands. It is highly rated and is also soft and lighter than armor made of solid compounds. The back protector I’d recommend for this jacket is the Pro-Armor G back protector which has a similar construction to the included elbow/shoulder armor. Take the link below to order.

We made a limited purchase of these jackets, so grab one while the size is still available. When these are gone, there will be no more. :: Paul, 05-31-19

Dainese says: Take the DNA of the two-piece leathers we introduced in the late seventies. Stars of an era gone by that’s timeless, to which we all belong. Create a thoroughbred jacket in the uncompromising spirit of our racing history, combining Dainese functionality and advanced technology. Craft it in soft Sol cowhide with Pro-Armor protection for outstanding safety, comfort and style. That’s Rapida72. When you just want to ride.