Cycling jackets and vests

The seasons are changing, the weather is getting colder, rain and wind are becoming more frequent. It’s time to start wearing a cycling jacket or vest so you can continue riding in comfort throughout the year.

Should cycling jacket be tight?

Depending on your ride style and whether you ride mtb, road or gravel bike, you may prefer a looser fitting jacket for off-road and adventure riding and something closer fitting for road bike rides. Your cycling jacket choice will obviously depend on the weather, with a thinner jacket better suited to higher temperatures, a thicker jacket for colder days and a dedicated rain jacket for very wet rides. The best cycling jackets will be either windproof, insulating, and waterproof or they’ll combine all three properties. A good base layer will also provide you with the comfort and temperature regulation.

Cycling waterproof jacket: find the right for your needs

For mega rainy rides or a changeable forecast, a lightweight packable rain jacket and waterproof cycling pants are essential. Easy to stuff into your back pocket and take out when needed, a typical cycling waterproof jacket uses a lightweight two or three-layer fabric, a DWR-treated outer surface and taped seams to stop water getting in.

Other rain cycling jackets like Gore’s Shakedry range are made from a single layer of entirely waterproof material. This fabric allows rain to simply bead off its surface and the jacket can be dry with a quick shake- nifty! What unites all the latest cycling waterproof jackets is their ability to protect you from the rain and prevent overheating.

How to choose winter cycling jacket?

For very cold rides, a thicker winter cycling jacket is a smart choice. With their wind proofing and insulating properties, breathable fabrics at the back of these jackets let warm air to escape, ensuring your body temperature is regulated. Cycling arm and leg warmers can also help you stay warm. Because winter rides often mean riding at a lower tempo, you will generate less heat, so insulation is vital.

Many high-end cycling jackets and vests utilise highly insulating materials such as PrimaLoft, which combine superb warmth with low weight and packability. Though the best winter cycling jackets offer water resistance in addition to their insulation and breathability, they may not be totally waterproof. We recommend carrying a dedicated waterproof cycling jacket, which can be worn as an outer layer over your winter jacket in the event of very heavy rain.

Best cycling vest for winter: how to choose?

A cycling vest or a cycling gilet also represents a wise investment for the year-round rider. Useful for cold mornings and chilly descents in spring and summer, thicker more insulating vests can also be worn over a long thermal sleeve jersey in Autumn or on mild winter days. Cycling vests are a truly versatile piece of kit, usually useful across a range of temperatures.

From lightweight wind cycling jackets, packable rain jackets, thick winter jackets and cycling vests, explore our extensive range of cycling clothing and be autumn and winter-ready.