Alpinestars Stella Andes V3 Drystar Jacket

We find the fit of this jacket to be consistent with other “alpha” sized ladies jackets, so choose a size based upon what you normally wear in women’s clothing/jackets. You can consult Alpinestars sizing chart for a conversion from the “alpha” size to a ladies dress size.

The Alpinestars Andes V3 Drystar Jacket is new for 2021 and is an upgrade from the V2 version. It remains an excellent choice for all types of riders for wet and/or cooler or even cold conditions. Armor is included for the shoulders and elbows. A back protector and chest protector inserts are optionally available. Both men’s and women’s (Stella) sizes are available, so take the link below to view the other gender. Links are also provided below to check out the matching men’s or women’s Andes V3 pants. The jacket and pant combo will make an excellent touring or adventure riding suit for a very reasonable sum.

The Andes jacket and pant have been staples in the Alpinestar’s lineup for a long time. The first Andes jacket version we reviewed back in 2013, and the v2 appeared in 2017. This current V3 version, as with prior versions is made for use in mild to cold weather and/or wet weather. The overall styling is generic enough to appeal to any kind of rider from sport to adventure. The jacket includes an integrated waterproof liner situated between the jacket’s outer shell and inner lining so it will keep you dry in case of rain. The rain barrier will also act as a barrier to ward off biting wind. And when you ride in really cold weather, you can install the removable thermal liner which gives a very generous blanket of insulation for your torso and arms. Like the matching pant, the V3 version of the jacket improves temp range versatility by including a pair of zippered vents. These vents situated to face the wind on the upper chest have two improvements over prior year’s versions. The vent is “direct” meaning air passes through the vent directly to your skin. In prior versions, the venting wasn’t direct and was blocked by the waterproof liner. In order to be a direct vent, the zipper is waterproof and also they’ve included a neat little snap arrangement to allow you to prop the vent open to catch more air. Even with venting, I wouldn’t recommend this jacket for warm or hot weather though. But the new design features will take you further into spring. Also, check out the new collar tie back loop. In warmer weather when you don’t want the collar buttoned up, you can tie back one end of the collar to keep the tab out of your way.

Armor is included in this jacket for shoulders and elbows. It is Alpinestars Nucleon Flex Plus type which is thin and VERY flexible and it works well for a street jacket like this. A pocket is built into the rear lining to accept a back protector. You actually have three back protector options… the KR-CELLi, KR-2i, and the KR-1i. I’d recommend the KR-CELLi in a street jacket like this. It is light and flexible and fairly robust feeling. You can also add chest armor pieces as well (link below).

Of course you get a good selection of pockets both inside and out including a waterproof chest pocket inside the jacket and also a very large rear fanny pocket. Another small thing that looks functional is the slightly raised main zipper. There is a small “V” notch at the bottom of the jacket and the main zipper starts a few inches up, so that way you have a bit more room for the bottom of the jacket to drape over your legs when you sit. Overall, these jacket remains an excellent value with very good quality and I continue to recommend it. :: Paul, 07-19-21

Alpinestars says: The Andes v3 Jacket is anatomically engineered for an optimized women’s fit and its exclusive Alpinestars Drystar® construction ensures 100% waterproofing and high levels of breathability, even in difficult riding conditions. The technically advanced construction of this jacket offers protection and abrasion resistance and is adaptable to all weather conditions.