Advice & Guides If it feels like armour in your bike kit then the law demands it is actually proper, protective armour. Here's how to tell how effective your impact protection is...

Customers found the vest comfortable and lightweight, with easy setup and reliable functionality. Its subtle design allows it to blend in with regular clothing, and it excels in features like automatic arming, waterproofing, and the convenience of self-replacing canisters without a subscription. Users appreciated the haptic feedback for status updates. Though some noted minor zip and charging port issues, the general feedback highlighted its quality and practicality, especially for those desiring a seamless riding experience.
Reviewed lots of airbag systems before pulling the trigger on this one; Bike social do some seriously good reviews! Was initially torn between this and the mechanical moto airbag which offers even more protection. Chose this because you also have to live with it day to day; clipping off and on sounded a faff and this can be worn under or over your jacket, is descreet and looks the part. I’m 5’9 77kg and went medium which is a perfect fit.. side panels stretch to go over an Oxford Mondial jacket no problem.
Seems well made, fits well to size, haven't actually tested it to comment on the most crucial part!
The primary reason I picked up the Alpinestars Tech-Air 3 v2 was simple: motorcycling is inherently risky, and why wouldn't you try to reduce that? The cost is definitely a small price to pay compared to ending up in the hospital, or worse, and my wife—especially since we have a young daughter—is extremely happy I now have it. I typically wear a size L, but since this vest is designed to be worn over other riding layers, I sized up to an XL, and the fit is spot-on. I was worried it might be bulky, but it's surprisingly streamlined, and I really appreciate that Alpinestars built in skid resistance alongside the main airbag function, adding an extra layer of protection. The only minor drawback is the app; it's honestly pretty average and I'm not entirely sure why it needs to exist, but the good news is the system works perfectly fine without it. I would still recommend using the app periodically just to keep the system software updated.
I had the original Tech3 airbag and decided to try the canvas black version. I could not be happier!!! Excellent build, fit and look. Lovely lining on the inside. First class for those thinking Plasma5 have a hard think about this version in terms of protective coverage.
Really comfortable and because it arms itself when you zip it up removes all the faff for an airbag. No subscription, no lanyard and you can replace cartridges yourself. Two little niggles with it.
1. Because the front zip is in the centre you have to clip the chest airbag in place before zipping it up. It is however magnetic so not hard to do.
2. The USB charging port just floats around inside a little pocket on the front.
Unlike some airbags out there this one actually looks like a normal piece of clothing. It’s very comfortable , easy to set up , easy to charge and importantly waterproof!! Ideal for wearing on top of other kit but can be used underneath if preferred. Sizing seems spot on. Very happy with my choice
Arrived in a battered box so looks like it may have been used to return a few times but the actual item was in good condition. I charged it and tried it out and works well. Very easy to put on activate. The back does have a bit of bulk for the canister though.
Overall looks and feels like a really good quality item. Haven't tried it out yet with the bags actually deploying.
Lightweight and easy to use. Best feature is the haptic feedback which physically lets you know when it's armed and disarmed.
One of the better airbag vests out there and one I'll continue to wear.
It's very casual looking and looks like a normal item of clothing. Having had a dianaise airbag vest for 7 years, this is a fantastic upgrade. I have no complaints at all.
I bought my Alpinestars Tech-Air 3 v2 Canvas in May 25. And I fell-off my bike in October.
It worked. The end, well, nearly.
These are a few thoughts of mine regarding the Tech-Air.
Sizing - get your actual size; the side panels are elasticated so no need to go one size up.
It's expensive, but a similar price to a top Shoei helmet so - imho - worth the money.
Unlike other air vests, the electronics are waterproof.
When considering the alternatives, look at their specs very carefully. You have a choice about inserting back armour, which makes the (already quite heavy) jacket heavier & bulkier.
But what happens if you fall off, especially when
touring? Replacing a canister (if you have one) by the side of the road is a big ask; at least with a good back protector you have some protection. Regarding those canisters - a spare set of 2 from Sportsbikeshop is £170!!! Worse, the expiry date on those canisters (and the fitted original) was only a year away.
Sportsbikeshop sent back a couple of sets to
Alpinestars who stubbornly refused to send out cartridges with a 2-year plus use by date.
I've tried contacting Alpinestars directly more than once, but have never received a reply. Moreover, I don't think there are any Alpinestars Service Centres in the UK (according to their on-line map).
Not helpful when you have an expensive safety item that requires routine inspection and servicing.
My Canvas air vest looks good, but is really for
external wear. Of course, that means when it gets soaked, it absorbs water and gets even heavier. Bit annoying when wearing a nice laminate jacket
which shrugs of every drop of water. In conclusion, it s the best Air Vest out there (Tech-Air 5 gives better protection, but costs more). I won't ride without wearing it.
But Alpinestars support has been zero, and
carrying a spare canister(s) & fitting a good back protector add to the already high cost.
Air Vests shouldn't be a luxury.
Compact and flexible in terms of sizing I hope I never try this out on the road. It s clever and unlikely to deploy unintentionally. No tethering, no requirement for GPS connection and user replaceable canisters. Size L was good for me at a 43 inch chest. Fits both over and under jackets depending on their fit. Excellent service from Sportsbikeshop as we have come to expect.
Tried this after trying Helite Turtle 2 and Motoairbag MAB V4. The Alpinestars is lighter than the Motoairbag and not as cumbersome as the Turtle, once its on you don't know your wearing it, apart from the vibration from the vest letting you know it is on and active. Excellent service from Sportsbikeshop as always
| XS | S | M | L | XL | 2XL | 3XL | 4XL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEST - OVER JKT (CM) | 98-108 | 104-114 | 110-121 | 116-128 | 122-134 | 128-141 | 134-148 | 140-155 |
| CHEST - UNDER JKT (CM) | 95-101 | 101-107 | 107-113 | 113-119 | 119-125 | 125-131 |
Find it cheaper at any major motorcycle accessory retailer, online or in-store and we‘ll match it.
How to request a price match.