We’ve tested Alpinestars’ off-road airbag jacket

In 2017, Alpinestars began developing an airbag system specifically for off-road riding. A system that not only needed to cope with varying surfaces, irregular movements and standing riding positions — but also distinguish between an actual crash and the rider simply working dynamically with their body. Several years of data collection, algorithm development and field testing in rally conditions ultimately resulted in Tech-Air Off-Road — a system purpose-built from the ground up for off-road riding.

The sensors, which read movement thousands of times per second, are trained to recognise the difference between:
• normal off-road riding (impacts, jolts, uneven terrain, rear-wheel slides, front-wheel lift)
• and actual crashes (sudden stops, high-energy tumbles, violent ejections)

The detection algorithm is the result of years of data logging from both professionals and amateurs — and forms the system’s “intelligence”. It is not AI in the traditional sense, but rather an AI-like decision engine built on extensive motion data.

Fit and first impressions

Despite the technology involved, the vest is surprisingly streamlined. It sits close to the body, moves naturally and never feels heavy when worn. Following the size guide and measuring as instructed provides a well-fitted piece of protection. Ventilation is sufficient for Nordic climates and most training conditions, although it can feel slightly warmer during the summer months.

The LED panel is clear, and the system automatically powers on and off when the zip is opened and closed. Battery life is around 40 hours of riding, depending on intensity, and it charges via a standard USB-C cable.

Alpinestars Tech-Air Off-Road is equipped with two separate gas canisters, allowing the system to deploy in two independent crash events. Even once both canisters have been used, the protective jacket underneath still provides full CE-certified protection — meaning you are never without compliant core protection.

Safety when it truly matters

Our test rider, Jens Svedholm, has used the airbag since early summer. He has tested it during regular enduro practice as well as at major events such as Stångebroslaget, Ränneslättsloppet and the Gotland Grand National.

The system never deployed unnecessarily, regardless of terrain. Ränneslättsloppet, for example — with its long rocky sections and deep sandy stretches — didn’t trigger any surprises.

But during what seemed like an ordinary training session, Jens received an unexpected opportunity to test Tech-Air Off-Road in real life. A sudden front-wheel wash-out sent him straight into the ground with force — and at the exact moment of impact, the airbag deployed. Jens described the sound as “like a gunshot going off next to your ear”. What would almost certainly have resulted in injury under normal circumstances instead ended with nothing more than a slightly shaken rider and a spent canister. The crash served mainly as a reminder of how quickly things can happen — and how reassuring it is when the technology performs exactly as promised.

Protection built for the future of off-road riding

The front view reveals the large chest panels, designed to expand symmetrically when the airbag deploys, protecting the chest, ribs and collarbones. All electronics and sensor hardware are housed in the central module along the chest, keeping the system shielded from impacts and dirt. The materials are chosen to withstand heat, moisture and repeated movement without compromising ventilation.

The rear of the Tech-Air Off-Road shows the extensive air chamber covering the back, along with the integrated back protector that delivers maximum protection to the spine, shoulders and upper torso during both low- and high-speed incidents. The design is optimised for off-road use, with ventilation panels and a streamlined outer profile that reduces heat build-up and the risk of snagging on equipment or luggage. There is also a dedicated pocket for a hydration system, with hose routing designed not to interfere with the vest’s fit or the airbag’s function.

Tech-Air Off-Road represents a new phase in off-road protection and is one of the few systems to successfully combine advanced sensor and airbag technology with realistic data logging based on genuine off-road riding. At the same time, it offers a robust fit with full freedom of movement and a thoroughly proven level of reliability, demonstrated in competition environments.

It is an investment — but for anyone riding enduro, gravel, adventure or rally, it is also one of the most sophisticated and well-developed protective systems available today.