The mesh jacket for the 90th anniversary model is out of this world.

In this series, biker writer Mr. Aikyo, who has a discerning eye, actually wears KADOYA's main products and delves deeply into everything from their design philosophy to their practicality.

This time, we introduce the 90th-anniversary models of the popular mesh jackets "MARKSMAN" and "THOMPSON." Through Mr. Aikyo's meticulous impressions, cultivated from his extensive knowledge of motorcycles, we explore the depths of quality that KADOYA pursues.

Text and Photos: Masayuki Aikyo
Edited by: KADOYA MAGAZINE Editorial Team

Hello, this is Aikyo.

A while ago, I introduced Kadoya's perforated leather jackets. Their fabric offers high protection, so you can wear a windbreaker underneath to use them even in chilly weather.

Mesh jackets can also be used for a long time by combining them with a windbreaker, but due to their lightweight nature, they are ideal for those who "want to ride as comfortably as possible, even if it means slightly compromising protection" during the peak summer months from July to late September.

Kadoya, celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2026, has released two commemorative models.

MARKSMAN-XC

Product Name: MARKSMAN-XC
Colors: Black, Gray
Price: 33,000 yen
Sizes: S-4L
Protector pockets are provided on the shoulders, elbows, and back, with only a back protector included as standard.

The back protector is a common air-through type, but it is thick and offers excellent cushioning.

This is a 90th-anniversary model of Kadoya's popular "Marksman" series from the past few years, with two main features.

The first is the texture of the fabric.
Typical mesh jackets for motorcycles are 100% polyester, and the MARKSMAN-XC is no exception. Usually, 100% polyester mesh fabric has a distinctive sheen, but this model has a matte texture with a jersey-like feel. This means that after getting off the bike, it doesn't have the awkwardness typical of motorcycle jackets, and it doesn't stand out in tourist areas.

The second is its elasticity.
Polyester itself inherently lacks elasticity. Therefore, polyurethane or similar materials are usually blended in to provide stretch. However, this model achieves elasticity through special processing of the polyester and ingenious thread design. Nevertheless, it does not offer the same level of stretch as polyurethane-blended fabrics, so it's advisable to choose a size that accounts for the thickness of any protectors you plan to install.

The design is shaped like a KADOYA double rider jacket simply converted into mesh.

A large "storm flap" is attached behind the main zipper, but as it's also made of mesh fabric, it doesn't block the airflow from the zipper area.

The double-rider silhouette, where you can slightly open the zipper and secure the collar with a button, is functional as it allows wind to enter the chest area, which tends to get stuffy.

Leather accents are placed throughout. While frequent washing is expected for summer jackets, I used a mesh jacket with leather accents from the same brand for three seasons, and the leather showed no deterioration without any special care.

The partial use of leather on the hem and elbows enhances the texture, but considering ground contact during a fall, the elbow area could use a bit more width. However, the use of perforated leather to ensure breathability is an excellent consideration.

There are three pockets: two on the sides and one inside. All can hold a large smartphone, but when riding, keeping it in the inside pocket prevents it from being a hindrance.

The two side pockets have metal pulls, enhancing their rugged appearance.

A tone-on-tone 90th-anniversary patch adorns the chest, understatedly conveying a sense of quality.

Patches and prints on the back also satisfy the desire of ownership.

On the inside of the hem, there's a serial number and a label where you can write your name and blood type. Providing your blood type could be helpful in an emergency.

The cuffs have zippers that can be opened to adjust the amount of air intake.

One point to note is the absence of a "zipper guard" on the heavy-duty double main zipper. While this was likely prioritized for a street-wear design, it could scratch the tank on bikes with a forward-leaning riding position, so we recommend using a tank pad.

THOMPSON-XC

Product Name: THOMPSON-XC
Colors: Black, Gray
Price: 33,000 yen
Sizes: S-4L

The protector specifications are similar to the MARKSMAN-XC, but this one is equipped with buttons and Velcro for chest protectors.

If the MARKSMAN-XC is a double rider, the THOMPSON-XC is a single rider converted to mesh. The basic characteristics are shared, but while the double has a slightly wild impression, the single offers a simpler, more chic finish.

The absence of pocket pulls is symbolic of this. Compared to the ruggedness of the MARKSMAN-XC, this one gives a very clean impression.

In addition to the hem, there are two lines of reinforcing leather running from the shoulders to the sleeves. The black version features red and navy, while the gray has white and a subdued navy, giving it a more refined look.

The internal pocket has been moved to a lower position to avoid interference with a chest protector.

The main zipper is designed to be folded back and concealed, making the zipper less prominent and less likely to scratch the bike.

The cuff zippers have no gusset and open up to create a wide split, allowing for more airflow than the MARKSMAN-XC.

Sizing

When I, at 164cm tall and 62kg (a Showa-era build), tried on a size M, it felt just right, as the overall fit was snug; an M was a better fit than my usual S. With only the standard back protector, there was ample room, and it seems fine even with additional protectors throughout. The fabric's stretchiness means it doesn't feel restrictive even when worn tightly.

Actual Riding Impressions (Temperature 29°C, Clear Sky)

When I rode, despite its appearance not looking like mesh, the airflow was excellent, making it very comfortable. I wore moisture-wicking and quick-drying material as an inner layer, but for temperatures exceeding 30 degrees, pairing it with a cooling inner layer would make it even more comfortable.

With the MARKSMAN-XC, the sleeves didn't show a dramatic change, partly because the vehicle had knuckle guards, but opening the chest area immediately provided a refreshing ventilation effect.

Similarly, the THOMPSON-XC also offers excellent airflow. Although black absorbs sunlight, the high breathability prevents any sensation of heat build-up. Thanks to the fully opening cuffs, I felt a more pronounced inflow of air compared to the MARKSMAN-XC.

Which one should you choose?

There's no significant difference in functionality, but there are differences in the expandability of chest protectors and the structure of the cuffs.

If I had to choose, I'd pick the MARKSMAN-XC in gray. The double-rider silhouette and the exquisite gray color are simply cool.

Few people replace their mesh jackets every year, but these 90th-anniversary models will likely only be available this season. If you were considering a replacement, why not check them out now?