Updated for 2026: The Desert Rider is now available in tan and black options, and gone are the chest and left-shoulder Velcro patches. The only remaining branding is the a small embossed leather badge on the right-hand shoulder.

While most un-rated, or even single-A rated summer jacket options make us nervous, the Desert Rider comes with a respectable AA rating, smart use of Cordura overlays at key abrasion areas, and like all North of Berlin jackets, it includes a full five-piece, Level 2 Sas-Tec armor complement.

The jacket gets a full lofted mesh liner, the help wick and evacuate moisture, and its technical prowess is belied by its understated looks.

The Desert Rider has quickly become a shop favorite, with its ample airflow and easy-to-wear, good-looking disposition.

It is well priced, too, and now comes in three color opsions — the original blue joined now by classic black, or a cooler-running tan. All three colors feature the same rich brown leather accents. And all three are a welcome change from the heavy branding that most manufacturers put on their mesh summer jackets.

As with all North of Berlin jackets, the Desert Rider comes with Level 2 Sas-Tec armor throughout—elbows, shoulders, and back.

It’s got plenty of pockets for everyday use, including two inside zippered pockets, two patch chest pockets, and “hand warmer” pockets that are secured by a central snap. And as a bonus there's a small zippered pocket on the left forearm for cash and/or cards.

Pair with your favorite pair of riding jeans, or zip the jacket into any of the North of Berlin riding pants to make it a complete riding suit.

Protection:

• Certified according to EN 17092-3:2020 (Level AA)
• Both outer fabrics are abrasion-resistant and breathable Cordura fabrics
• Highly flexible and extremely flat Sas-Tec protectors on shoulders, elbows and back.
• All protectors used reach level 2 in protective effect

Features: 

• Five outside pockets, two lockable inside pockets
• Pocket on the forearm for keys or change
• Quality metal zippers from YKK
• A uniform long connecting zipper between jacket and trousers makes connects to North of Berlin riding pants