At first glance, the Leatt ADV MultiTour 8.5 looks like a conventional premium adventure jacket. The materials inspire confidence, the YKK zippers feel sturdy, and Superfabric reinforcements at the shoulders and elbows make its intentions clear: this jacket is built for long journeys, on pavement and gravel alike. Its real originality, though, is not immediately obvious.
A different approach to jacket design
For years, manufacturers have sought the one jacket that can do it all. The same problem keeps returning: a highly waterproof jacket often struggles to breathe, while one that moves plenty of air tends to offer less rain protection.
With the ADV MultiTour 8.5, Leatt takes another route. The idea is simple: layer the components and remove them easily as the weather changes.
The heart of the system: a ventilated jacket
The central layer is the heart of the system. Mesh panels let air flow across the chest and arms, a welcome feature on hot summer days. This layer also houses the impact protectors.
The lower part of the jacket remains laminated and waterproof at all times. That has a practical benefit: the large pockets remain protected from rain and accessible even when the upper waterproof shell is fitted.
Impact and abrasion protection
Leatt has not skimped on impact protection. Level 2 protectors for the back, shoulders, elbows and chest are included. Where some competitors sell the back or chest protector separately, both come standard here. The flexible 3DF foam absorbs some impact energy while staying supple on the bike. The protectors can be removed.
To resist abrasion in a slide, Leatt uses RipStop fabric and Superfabric reinforcements in exposed areas. The complete jacket is certified to EN 17092 Class AA, a classification that covers factors including abrasion, tear and seam strength. This is separate from the Level 2 rating of its impact protectors.
A removable shell for rainy days
In waterproof mode, a shell covers the upper jacket, including the shoulders, back and chest. Three zippers attach it to the central layer. This exceptionally thin shell is easy to take off and put back on.
According to Leatt, its HydraDri DRI+ membrane offers a 35,000 mm waterproof rating and breathability of 15,000 g/m²/24 h. Those published figures suggest substantial rain protection, although our ride was not a laboratory test.
A thermal liner for cold days
The ADV MultiTour 8.5 comes with a removable, windproof, water-repellent thermal liner worn beneath the central layer. Its water-repellent finish makes droplets bead up in light rain. For sustained rain on the bike, however, the outer waterproof shell is the layer to use.
Why give the liner a water-repellent finish? Because you can wear it on its own after parking the motorcycle. It becomes a light jacket for dinner while the bike waits outside the motel.
Comfort and freedom of movement
The Leatt ADV MultiTour 8.5 shows its versatility in the fall, when the day begins at 5°C and climbs to 25°C by noon.
The layered design adds weight when every component is in place. Even so, movement remains fluid and unrestricted. The jacket feels reassuringly enveloping, and its weight is barely noticeable once you are riding.
The collar feels soft against the neck, the cuffs use stretch materials, and numerous adjustments help dial in the fit. The cut is long, yet looks sportier than many competing jackets.
Price and sizing
The listed retail price is $999.99, placing the MultiTour 8.5 in the premium category. The five-in-one concept helps justify it: a ventilated jacket with its shell for rain; the full insulated setup for cold weather; a protective mesh jacket for heat; a protective jacket with its liner for cool days; and the thermal liner worn alone at your destination. These combinations are genuinely useful on a trip, not just appealing on paper.
Take care when choosing a size: the cut is close-fitting. We suggest trying one size above your usual choice. If you have a broader build or plan to add layers, compare two sizes up as well. There is no substitute for trying the jacket in its different configurations.
Our verdict on the Leatt ADV MultiTour 8.5
What appeals to us is the logic of the system. Instead of relying only on vents, Leatt lets you remove the upper shell and expose a generous ventilated section. When temperatures rise, that flexibility changes how you dress for the ride.
The quality of the materials, Level 2 protectors, Class AA certification and removable waterproof shell make for a compelling package. Add a thermal liner that doubles as a casual jacket, and you have a distinctive touring garment.
Can this five-in-one system replace two jackets in a traveller’s luggage? In our view, yes. Its flexibility makes us want to set off without choosing all our gear around a single weather forecast.
