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Crowtree Two-Piece Leathers
BY Verdigris
kit | November 6, 2001

Being of a larger than normal build, when I needed new leathers I had to look for made-to-measure.  Since I was going to that expense I figured I might as well get some top-notch kit.

I traveled up to Louth to be fitted.  The staff were very friendly and took care that I was buying the suit that I wanted.  I chose a plain black two-piece suit with lancer jacket.  I also selected top grade armour at shoulders, elbows, hips and knee.  They offer several different types; better protection adds weight and is stiffer.  You can get a back protector if you like, although they recommended getting a separate protector if I wanted one.  (Remember to tell them when you're measured up if you want to do this.)  They'll also do a fitted box, for the demon braker! The jacket was to be a little bit longer than standard.

Woven kevlar panels at the crotch and behind the knees for better comfort.  Simple airtex lining; I've got other gear for winter wear.  Inner and outer pockets in the jacket; no pockets in the trousers.   The fit of the suit was adjusted not only to my size, but to allow room for thermals and a sweatshirt; you can have it looser if you like, or go for a really tight fit if you like.

I left a deposit and went home to await their arrival.
Some weeks later they turned up.  My first impression was of weight; these are substantial garments!  When I came to try them on I was initially a little dismayed.  The jacket seemed OK but the trousers were very stiff and a bit difficult to pull on.  Still, I'd been warned that they'd need to be broken in.

The first few times I wore them, I found the knees to be very uncomfortable.  OK for a short ride but really uncomfortable after much more than half an hour.  They didn't seem to be getting any better but then one day I realized that I'd been wearing them for eight hours and felt fine!  Now, they are comfortable for all-day wear on or off the bike.  I can whole-heartedly recommend Crowtree for anyone after top quality leathers, but they're not cheap.  The total cost will depend on what options you go for - body armour, kevlar etc.  Mine was about £700, but I have no complaints.

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