Viaterra Miller Riding Jacket Review: 3 Month Update

Things I liked

First up is the way the Miller looks. It visually comes across as a more expensive and premium jacket than it actually is, especially the triple-tone colour combination comprising red, black, and grey shades. The placement of colours, the ‘Viaterra’ branding on its arms and back, and the brand logo across the chest area give it an eye-catching and elegant look.

The next likeable aspect of the Miller is its breathability. At first, when I unboxed the jacked, I frowned at its heavy weight, which we’ll talk about in a bit. However, to date, I have worn it on the hottest days in Mumbai and can vouch for its ventilation efficiency. The presence of a huge patch of mesh on the front and the inside of the arms lets air pass through freely, which keeps you from sweating, even when riding at a slow pace on hot days. What also helps are the heavily perforated back and chest protectors. It’s only when I carry a backpack that I sweat at the back because the back protector, although it has air holes, is thick enough to cause sweating.

The Miller is also comfortable and allows decent freedom of movement. Despite the jacket fitting snugly and the armours being thick, it doesn’t feel scratchy or awkward. Moreover, unlike a few jackets with a tall collar which keeps rubbing against your neck, the Miller allows you to move your head comfortably due to the short collar. Plus, the soft fabric stitched across its edge prevents any discomfort. It also has ample adjustment straps to prevent it from sliding off its dedicated position. However, I would’ve liked an additional strap around the upper waist for a snugger fit.

What I dislike

One major flaw with the Miller, or just with the unit we have received for review, is that the elbow armour always slides lower than its dedicated position, leaving my elbow covered with just the thin textile layer. This might prove hazardous in the event of a crash. I’ve often tried removing the armour, putting it back in place, and forcefully setting it wrapped around the elbow but it always slides down towards the wrist once I start riding.

Apart from this, the Viaterra Miller honestly doesn’t have any major flaws. However, there are a few things we would’ve liked it to have.

Owing to the heavy armour, the overall jacket feels hefty. Although this is not a problem while you’re wearing the jacket, putting it on, taking it off, or carrying it around feels a bit cumbersome. A lighter overall weight would’ve enhanced the usability quotient to some extent. Plus, a waterproof pocket on the inside of the jacket, large enough to accommodate a smartphone, would’ve been a saviour in the unforeseeable rains that are a common occurrence in Mumbai. Plus, an inner rain liner would make the overall proposition more attractive.

Conclusion

The Viaterra Miller ticks almost all the boxes associated with affordable street riding jackets. It boasts good breathability, feels comfortable, and looks attractive. Some thoughtful additions like the flexible material at the back and soft liners on the edge of the collar only make the deal sweeter. Besides the aforementioned niggles, we don’t have any real complaints with it, and the Miller comes across as a must-buy option if you’re in the market for an affordable, sensible, and good-looking jacket.

Photography by Kaustubh Gandhi and Kapil Angane