Cycling Jackets Buyers Guide

Buyers Guide

Cycling Jackets

Cycling Jackets

Cycling jackets are specially designed to keep you comfortable while cycling...
The cut of the jacket, the fabrics used and features such as vents and waterproof zips all contribute to a happier, dryer, more comfy you!

There are 3 main types of cycling jacket...

  • Lightweight Windproof Cycling Jackets.
  • Breathable Waterproof Cycling Jackets.
  • Softshell Cycling Jackets.
  • Cycling Jacket Specifics...

    Cycling jackets are specially shaped to fit comfortably while cycling...

    The sleeves on a cycling jacket are slightly longer than normal to keep your wrists covered and a "dropped tail" protects your lower back and allows water to run off below the saddle.

    The front of the jacket will be cut high so as not to get in the way when you are bent over the handlebars and any pockets will be at the back or on the chest - again out of the the way while cycling.

    Ladies cycling jackets are specifically designed to fit the female form.

    Ventilation & Overheating...

    For most of the year keeping cool while cycling is more of a problem than staying warm. The harder you ride, the hotter you get!
    Some jackets use zipped vents to allow you to cool down when needed.

    Buy the best breathable waterproof cycling jacket you can afford - breathable fabric allows your sweat to escape from the jacket.

    A non-breathable cycling jacket will soak you in your own condensed sweat - very unpleasant!

    Breathable Waterproof Cycling Jackets.

    For cycle-commuting on a budget, Altura Nevis or Altura Night Vision cycling jackets are good value for money - breathable and waterproof.

    If your budget allows, fabrics such as Gore Tex or eVENT are more breathable and will cope with most weather conditions.

    Gore Windstopper will withstand a shower and a Gore Tex cycling jacket will be completely waterproof. The Goretex Paclite jackets, as their name suggests, pack down small - small enough to fit into a cycling jersey pocket.

    Softshell Cycling Jackets such as the Gore Xenon and Endura Stealth also offer some insulation from the cold so are a good choice for autumn and winter use with the possible addition of a wicking base layer.


    Cycling Jackets

    Buyers Guide