Dainese Smart Jacket V2

Overview

Fit & Comfort

The Dainese Smart Jacket V2 is a masterclass in ergonomic engineering. Unlike first-generation airbag vests that felt like wearing a rigid life jacket, the V2 is surprisingly supple and lightweight. It is designed to be worn either over or under a standard motorcycle jacket. When worn under, you simply need to ensure there is about two inches of clearance in the chest to allow for deployment. The vest features an adjustable waist belt that allows you to dial in the fit, ensuring the internal sensors remain close to the body for accurate data collection. One of its most underrated features is its packability; you can actually fold this vest and tuck it into a top box or backpack once you reach your destination, a feat most tethered systems can’t replicate. The only minor gripe is the weight of the battery and brain unit at the lower back, which can feel slightly pronounced if you’re used to ultra-light summer mesh gear.

Protection

This is where the Smart Jacket V2 justifies its premium price tag. The system utilizes the same D-air technology used by Valentino Rossi and other MotoGP legends. It features a brain (ECU) that monitors the rider’s movements 1,000 times per second using seven onboard sensors, including GPS, accelerometers, and a gyroscope. What makes the V2 truly special is its ability to detect ‘Stationary Impact’—meaning if you are rear-ended at a stoplight, the bag will deploy. The internal construction uses patented micro-filaments that ensure the bag inflates uniformly across the entire surface, creating a 5cm shield. Dainese claims the chest protection is equivalent to eight Level 2 chest protectors, while the back protection equals seven Level 2 back protectors, all without the bulk of rigid plastic armor.

Airflow

Airflow is often the Achilles’ heel of airbag vests, but Dainese has addressed this with a ventilated outer chassis. The fabric is treated to be water-resistant, yet it allows for significant moisture transfer. When riding in temperatures up to 85°F (29°C), the vest remains remarkably comfortable, especially when worn over a jacket. If worn under a jacket, your airflow will naturally be limited by the outer garment’s venting, but the vest itself doesn’t act as a complete heat trap. The mesh panels on the sides help evacuate heat during urban riding, making it a viable option for year-round commuting.

Verdict

The Dainese Smart Jacket V2 is a transformative piece of kit. It effectively removes the ‘tether’—both literally and figuratively—between the rider and the machine. It is an intelligent, reactive safety system that requires no installation on the bike and no mechanical connection. While the $750 price point is a significant investment, the peace of mind it offers is unparalleled. If you value your ribcage, spine, and vital organs, this is the most significant upgrade you can make to your gear closet. It’s not just a vest; it’s a sophisticated electronic insurance policy for your torso.