Gear Overview
The Klim Badlands Pro is a $799 premium ADV jacket that delivers exceptional protection and weatherproofing for serious adventure riders. After 2,000 miles of testing across Canadian highways, mountain passes, and city streets, this jacket proves why Klim commands premium prices in the motorcycle gear market.
Klim has built their reputation on creating gear that survives the harshest conditions, from Alaska's Dalton Highway to Patagonia's gravel roads. The Badlands Pro represents their flagship touring jacket, targeting riders who prioritize protection and durability over budget constraints.
At nearly $800, this jacket costs more than many riders spend on their entire gear setup. But for ADV tourers logging serious miles in unpredictable weather, the Badlands Pro justifies its price through Gore-Tex Pro construction, CE Level 2 armor, and build quality that outlasts cheaper alternatives.
Key Specs
| Spec | Detail |
|------|--------|
| Materials | Gore-Tex Pro 3-layer shell, 500D Cordura reinforcements |
| Armor | CE Level 2 D3O Ghost (shoulders/elbows), back protector ready |
| Weight | 3.2 lbs (size Large) |
| Sizes | XS-3XL (regular and tall options) |
| Waterproof Rating | IP67 (submersible to 1 meter) |
| Zippers | YKK Aquaguard throughout |
| Ventilation | Full-length pit zips, chest vents, back exhaust |
| Pockets | 6 external, 2 internal, Napoleon chest pocket |
| Reflective Elements | 3M Scotchlite on arms and back |
| Temperature Range | 35-85°F with proper layering |
Who It's For
The Badlands Pro targets serious ADV riders who need bulletproof protection for long-distance touring. If you're planning multi-day rides through changing weather conditions, this jacket handles everything from mountain snow to desert heat.
Commuters riding year-round in harsh climates will appreciate the waterproofing and wind protection. The jacket's urban styling works for office parking lots, while the armor provides confidence on highway speeds.
This isn't gear for weekend warriors or budget-conscious riders. At $799, you're paying for premium materials and construction that justify the cost only if you ride frequently in challenging conditions. Casual riders should consider less expensive alternatives.
Riders prioritizing fashion over function should look elsewhere. The Badlands Pro emphasizes protection and weatherproofing over style, resulting in a bulkier profile than fashion-forward jackets.
On-Road Performance
After 500+ miles of highway testing, the Badlands Pro excels at wind protection and stability. At 80 mph speeds, the jacket doesn't flap or balloon, maintaining a secure fit that reduces rider fatigue on long stretches.
Temperature regulation impressed us across varying conditions. In 45°F morning temperatures, the jacket provided warmth without overheating. When temperatures climbed to 75°F by afternoon, opening the pit zips and chest vents kept us comfortable without stopping to remove layers.
The armor placement allows natural riding positions without pressure points. During an 8-hour ride from Montreal to Toronto, the D3O Ghost armor remained unnoticeable until we removed the jacket and realized how much protection we'd been wearing.
Mobility exceeds expectations for such a protective jacket. The pre-curved sleeves and action back allow full range of motion for reaching handlebars and controls. The jacket doesn't restrict movement when looking over shoulders or reaching for tank bags.
Waterproofing proved bulletproof during a 3-hour ride through steady rain. No moisture penetrated the Gore-Tex Pro shell, and the YKK Aquaguard zippers sealed completely. After the ride, we remained completely dry underneath.
Build Quality & Safety
Klim's construction quality justifies the premium pricing through details that cheaper jackets skip. Triple-stitched seams throughout the jacket show no signs of stress after extensive testing. The 500D Cordura reinforcements in high-wear areas resist abrasion better than standard textile materials.
The D3O Ghost armor provides CE Level 2 protection while remaining flexible during normal riding. The armor covers impact zones effectively, with shoulder protection extending down the upper arm and elbow armor positioned correctly for natural arm positions.
Reflective elements use genuine 3M Scotchlite material, not cheap reflective tape. The placement on arms and back panel increases visibility without looking like a construction vest.
Klim's crash replacement program offers 50% off a new jacket if yours gets damaged in an accident within two years. This program demonstrates the company's confidence in their protection and provides additional value for the premium price.
The YKK Aquaguard zippers operate smoothly and seal completely. After thousands of open/close cycles, they show no signs of wear or water intrusion. The main zipper includes a storm flap for additional weather protection.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional waterproofing that handles hours of heavy rain
- CE Level 2 armor provides serious crash protection
- Gore-Tex Pro breathability prevents overheating
- Build quality that will last decades of hard use
- Excellent wind protection at highway speeds
- Comprehensive ventilation system for temperature control
- Crash replacement program adds long-term value
Cons:
- $799 price excludes budget-conscious riders
- Initial stiffness requires 200+ miles to break in properly
- Limited color options (black or dark gray only)
- Bulky profile doesn't suit fashion-conscious riders
- Back protector sold separately adds $150 to total cost
vs Competitors
The Rev'It Cayenne Pro ($650) offers similar protection with better styling but inferior waterproofing. The Rev'It jacket looks more refined but leaked during our rain testing, making it unsuitable for serious weather.
Rukka's Armaxion jacket ($899) provides comparable weather protection with slightly better breathability. However, the Rukka's armor feels less substantial, and the fit runs smaller than Klim's sizing.
The BMW GS Dry jacket ($749) targets the same ADV market but uses inferior materials. While $50 cheaper, the BMW jacket's construction quality doesn't match Klim's attention to detail.
For riders prioritizing maximum protection and weatherproofing, the Badlands Pro outperforms these alternatives despite the higher price. The Gore-Tex Pro shell and D3O armor combination provides superior protection that justifies the premium.
GothRider Verdict
The Klim Badlands Pro delivers exceptional protection and weatherproofing that justifies its premium price for serious ADV riders. The Gore-Tex Pro construction, CE Level 2 armor, and bulletproof build quality make this jacket a long-term investment rather than an expense.
Riders logging serious miles in challenging conditions will appreciate the comprehensive protection and weather resistance. The jacket excels at its intended purpose of keeping you safe and comfortable during extended rides through unpredictable conditions.
Casual riders and budget-conscious buyers should consider less expensive alternatives. At $799, this jacket makes sense only for riders who prioritize protection and durability over cost savings.
For serious ADV tourers who ride frequently in harsh conditions, the Klim Badlands Pro is worth every dollar of its $799 price tag.
FAQ
Is the Klim Badlands Pro jacket worth the $800 price?
For serious ADV riders who prioritize protection and durability, absolutely. The Gore-Tex Pro construction, CE Level 2 armor, and exceptional build quality justify the premium cost for riders who log serious miles in challenging conditions.
How does the Klim Badlands Pro fit compared to other brands?
Klim runs slightly larger than European brands like Rev'It but smaller than American brands like Harley-Davidson. Order your normal size for proper layering room, or size up if you prefer a looser fit.
Does the Badlands Pro meet motorcycle safety certifications?
Yes, it includes CE Level 2 certified D3O Ghost armor in shoulders and elbows, with optional back protector upgrade available separately. The armor meets European safety standards for motorcycle protective equipment.
Can you wear the Klim jacket in hot weather?
The jacket features full-length pit zips and chest vents that make it manageable in temperatures up to 85°F with proper layering. The Gore-Tex Pro material breathes better than cheaper waterproof alternatives, though it's still a winter-weight jacket at heart.
