I know I'm a little late to party but I would like to suggest you look at Skull Riderz. I am tall 6'4" and 260lbs. Finding riding gear in tall sizes (that really are sized for tall) has been a challenge. Someone suggested I look at Skull Riderz, I had never heard of them before. I ordered their mesh armored shirt and since I received it, 2 of my riding friends have ordered from them as well. I will be honest, I was a little skeptical when I ordered but the price was very good and I was pleasantly surprised when I received the jacket. It took 2 weeks-ish to arrive. The fit is excellent and it is actually cooler riding in NC in the summer than just wearing a t-shirt. The armor can be removed and you also have the option of upgrading the armor. The only odd thing is that the zipper pull in the front is on the left side. Not a problem just a note, I guess European design? I am not affiliated with them in any way so it makes no difference to me, but I wanted to share my experience as it may give you another option.
Good luck with whatever you choose.
I know I'm a little late to party but I would like to suggest you look at Skull Riderz. I am tall 6'4" and 260lbs. Finding riding gear in tall sizes (that really are sized for tall) has been a challenge. Someone suggested I look at Skull Riderz, I had never heard of them before. I ordered their mesh armored shirt and since I received it, 2 of my riding friends have ordered from them as well. I will be honest, I was a little skeptical when I ordered but the price was very good and I was pleasantly surprised when I received the jacket. It took 2 weeks-ish to arrive. The fit is excellent and it is actually cooler riding in NC in the summer than just wearing a t-shirt. The armor can be removed and you also have the option of upgrading the armor. The only odd thing is that the zipper pull in the front is on the left side. Not a problem just a note, I guess European design? I am not affiliated with them in any way so it makes no difference to me, but I wanted to share my experience as it may give you another option.
Good luck with whatever you choose.
Deanna,
They list several different ladies models but I have no experience with the ladies selections.
As far as jackets, I can't comment as I only have the mesh shirt, but I use that as a jacket and it works well and is very comfortable for me.
Jan
Look for one with a soft collar that won't chafe your neck. Also be sure the armour won't block the flow of air in places where you want it. Two thumbs up if it has a warm and waterproof liner. Mine is waist length but I found I prefer 3/4 length in a jacket. I have also found that I am cooler if I wear my cooling vest underneath. If it is super hot (over 90°) then I prefer to wear my Kilimanjaro silver 3/4 jacket. The color reflects some of the heat, the material blocks the hot air, and my cooling vest helps me stay cooler. Keeping hydrated and keeping my head cool are also very important, so I drink lots and wear a light-colored helmet. Before the days of electronics, I would stop by a stream fill my helmet with water dump it over my head and be good for an hour or so then repeat.What to look for in a mesh jacket. Pro and Con of a mesh jacket. Thanks
Bugs are a bit difficult to remove from the mesh.
I just noticed you are in Ohio. Take a ride to Iron Pony in Columbus and spend some time comparing. They will let you try stuff on and wear it around the store for a bit to help get the feel and comfort level of the item.