Chuck 500,
Rick and I think pretty much alike regarding the stich. I ordered mine a year ago and received it at the beginning of last summer. Being here in the North wet I opted for the Standard weight strength , I don't know if it is the R-3 or not, I looked st it to try and deermine, but it being a custom fit that is thtag inside of it. I Bought a Darrion light that was on sale 3 to 5 years ago and the wind blocker linner for it.
This Jacket does a good jobwith options of using the wind blocker linner, or a garbing electric linne , or both. I like the pocke configuration on it a little better than on the roadcrafter, primarily becouse of the extra large zipper pocket in the front. AS far as water proof the older Darions were rated as better than the Road crafter as far as doing a beter job in the rain, however I have worn my Roadcraftr n rain all day and have been dry a the end of the day . I think the new zipper system is the key to tha.
I I were living in Houston, or anywhere in that climate I would most likely go for the custom fit and with the best armour availible with it n the Light , or extra light. Your personal choices on pants whether Darieon, or RC is a mater of personal choice , just as two piece, or one piece suit. I believe you can stil have the option oe a darion Jacket matched up with roadcrafter pants in a matching two piece suit. you would need to discuss tha with Aerostich personell. They have not had a pop-up store setting in your vicinity yet so that might be worth asking about , or waiting for, so you can see and try on various combinaions of suits and get proper fitting adjustments measured by the experts in person.
I can say that the quality will be there in any item y ou choose as far as workmanship and material.
The two minor issues I have with them are , 1 they will not alter the torso length of a garmet,one nor two piece and 2. they will not put in a pistol / camara pocket modification into their product in the form of a slash internal pocket at the lower frontal area.
Should you want complete tailored to your particular body size with any and almost any pocket addition take a look at langlitzleathers.com in Portland Oregon.
They do not build with Armour pockets , nor armour as far as ballistic armour goes. Their padded shoulders , elbows , thighs & knees and reinforce butt area are all options. If you desire ballistic armour, you should order a set of Bohn Armour that you will wear under your street cloths and have it on before measuring yourself, or being measured by them etc. BE AWARE! A suit of their product built to your desires can cost 2 1/2 times the price of a Roadcrafter Custom. Also they might be a bit warm for summer wear in your area, although they breath well and adjustment of zippers give you options. Oh yes for comfort and much easier break-in Goat Skin is available and as far as I am concerned it is the material of my choice!
Keep them well treated with their leather dressing and they will she water as well as a Stich!
Their website is very nice to look at!
Eldon
