In Gear: Alpinestars ST-7 2L Gore-Tex Jacket Review

The standout feature of the Alpinestars ST-7 2L Gore-Tex jacket ($739.95) is its dual-layer laminated Gore-Tex main shell, meaning that a waterproof membrane is mated to the outer layer. Having used this jacket on several occasions in rough weather like what we experienced during our first ride of the 2025 Triumph Tiger Sport 800, it’s a piece of equipment that you can depend on when faced with biblical downpours. At no point have I experienced leaks at its seams or its waterproof zippers like some lesser jackets. There’s another benefit of that laminated construction, as the jacket doesn’t rely on removable waterproof liners that can often result in a bulkier, loose fit. Consider this: if you accommodate multiple removable liners, the exterior jacket needs to be bigger for all those layers to fit correctly, right? Well, that brings us to one of ST-7’s greatest benefits — it’s comparatively lightweight when stacked against other hardcore ADV and touring offerings.

Fit and mobility are other areas where the ST-7 scores top marks, boasting what is best described as a conventional cut. It isn’t slim cut, nor is it baggy, and it is true to the brand’s sizing chart. The jacket boasts pre-curved arms, as well as generous use of stretch panels in the armpit and back regions, that allows riders to move freely whether they’re in a seated position riding a touring bike or standing on the footpegs and throwing around an ADV machine off-road. Another nice touch is the straight collar, equipped with a soft neoprene-like material that doesn’t irritate skin, as well as a shock-cord closure to keep out rain or cold weather. I still tend to use an additional neck buff to protect against road debris, but the drawstring allows me to create a nice seal against the elements.

Sizing is offered in S to 4XL, and a female-cut “Stella” version is available, too. Getting that fit right for you is aided by adjustment straps in the arms and waist.

The jacket is Tech-Air ready, meaning it has expansion panels to accommodate a deployed airbag system. We’d recommend pairing it with the original Alpinestars Tech-Air 5 or the latest Tech-Air 5 Plasma, as those systems have the lowest profile in the current Astars range. However, riders can also use the Tech-Air 7X or Tech-Air Off-Road, though those units are far more substantial due to their larger back protectors or, in the case of the T-A Off-Road, additional armor. As a reminder, always consider the extra room an airbag soaks up while picking your jacket size.

Since we’re discussing protection, the jacket ships Nucleon Flex Pro CE Level 2 armor in the shoulders and elbows. The garment itself is certified as EN 17092-3:2020, AA class, providing a significant amount of slide protection. Generally, anything in the more durable AAA class will be made from leather, which isn’t as easy to clean or maintain as textile when faced with mud or dirt. Given the premium price point, we would have liked to see a Level 2 back protector included; however, there is a compartment available for one to be used.

When the temperature drops, you’ll still be in reasonably good shape, thanks to the removable thermal liner with 100g of insulation in the torso and 60g in the sleeves. In practice, I’ve used this sparingly because the wind-sealing on this jacket is quite good, so wearing a warming base layer is often more than enough for days with highs in the low 50s. However, the few times we’ve started riding in lower temperatures, I was glad to have it, and it certainly takes the edge off. Those who plan to ride in even chillier temperatures might want to layer up further. I tend to run a little hotter, so your mileage may vary (YMMV).

If you’re dealing with temperatures heading to the boiling point, that’s where the ST-7 is a breath of fresh air. Two sizable ventilation panels are located on the chest that are easily unzipped and placed in the open position via the unique magnetic locking mechanism. However, my pro-tip is to open the rear storage pouch zipper and let a significant amount of air pass through the jacket while riding, and more specifically, while standing. There are also two additional vents located on each bicep. Storage is practical with two waterproof bellowed cargo pockets on the exterior and two internal pockets for a phone, wallet, and other crucial belongings. There is one stash pouch in the rear, suitable for holding small items like lip balm, sun screen, or stowing the removable thermal liner.

Keen-eyed viewers will note that the matching ST-7 2L Gore-Tex pants ($$584.95) make a cameo in this review. The pants mirror the dual-layer Gore-Tex solution, reducing bulk and heft while still being completely waterproof. Additionally, Gore-Tex offers its “Guaranteed to Keep You Dry” warranty for any piece of equipment using its licensed products, offering to replace, repair, or even refund the full value of the product. For more information, check this out this link.

They also feature stretch fabric in the crotch and waist for added mobility. Above all else, and why they’re a welcome addition to an ADV/touring wardrobe, is that their cut allows the use of narrower touring-oriented boots or full-sized off-road boots, such as the Alpinestars Tech 7 Enduro. Despite carrying a heavy-duty Level 2 certification, the Nucleon Flex Pro CE knee armor live up to its name in terms of pliability and can be adjusted to dial in the position, and Bioflex CE Level 1 hip armor. Like the jacket, the pants carry EN 17092-3:2020 AA certification. Naturally, the jacket can be secured to the pants via a waist zipper.

The Alpinestars ST-7 2L Gore-Tex jacket and accompanying pants are worthy additions to your riding kit, rain or shine. There is no doubt that they’re on the pricier end of the spectrum, though their dependable waterproofing, ample ventilation, and welcome mobility do help justify their respective MSRPs. The standout features of the ST-7 jacket are its relative lightweight and massive ventilation, though the whole kit can be an actual four-season setup depending on the conditions. Check out the video for more information.

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