Why buy a specific cycling jacket?

Cycling jackets are one of the most sport specific jackets you will find. You could use a mountaineering type jacket to run in, or a running a jacket to go walking in. You could even use a cycling jacket for either of these activities, but what you couldn’t comfortable do, is use a mountaineering or running jacket for cycling. Why is this? Essentially it’s all in the cut.

A cycling jacket has a very specific cut – the arms and back are usually longer so that when you are in a cycling position the lower part of back isn’t exposed and you have the flexibility to stretch forwards. This is particularly important if you ride a road bike where the angle between your back and legs is much less than if you were riding a mountain bike.

The types of materials used in cycling jackets are almost a perfect mix between mountaineering and running jackets. The fabric is usually lighter than mountain jackets but not as light as running jackets. There is a good reason for this, a runner is less likely to be bothered or spend as long out in the rain as a cyclist and consequently the running jacket does not have to be as water resistant as a cycling jacket. Many running jackets are in fact only rated as being shower proof, prolonged exposure to wet conditions soon sees the water seeping through it. Unlike a mountaineering jacket though, the fabric of cycling jackets does not need to be so hardwearing, upper body movement is far less than hiking and no heavy back pack will be involved so it doesn’t need to be so tuff.

Cycle jackets tend to come in two flavours – either windproof or waterproof, for those with curious mind a waterproof jacket is also windproof. The windproof shells as they are known tend to be a very very light material and will stop about 90% of the wind getting through to you. They are an excellent addition to any cyclist’s wardrobe because more often than not it’s the wind chill factor that can cause cramps. Windproof cycling jackets, due to there lightweight nature, are also very breathable so you won’t get too hot and sweaty wearing them. A waterproof cycling jacket is a slightly different beast, it is the same cut as a wind shell but the material is also slightly thicker to increase its water resistance. On a top quality waterproof jacket you should find that the seams are taped to prevent water creeping in through the stitching of the outer shell. Needless to say a waterproof jacket will not be as breathable as a wind shell – will you notice though? I don’t know, but I didn’t. I very rarely now bother taking out my wind shell and just stick to the waterproof one.

If you do decide that a waterproof cycle jacket is for you then you will want to make sure that it has as much adjustability as possible. A waterproof jacket is not restrictive, but unlike the windproof shell you do know that you’ve got something on. Having adjustable cuffs to accommodate winter gloves is a good feature to look out for as is a high elasticated neck. Having an adjustable neck that you can pull tight will prevent cold winter winds getting down the back of your neck and therefore make your ride more comfortable. Another feature to look out for is ventilated armpits, being able to unzip your armpits can keep you dry and cool at the same time. If you’re out cycling on a day with intermittent sun where your hot one minute and cold the next being able to unzip and zip the armpits will mean less stopping time and so these is a highly recommended feature. Similar to an elasticated neck also look for a jacket with and elasticated waist pull, this to will prevent cold draughts getting in from below.

Aside from fit feature some jackets have a plethora of other features. Some cycle jackets will have large pockets on the back – I’m not a big fan of these as I don’t like the weight low down on my back, but if you’re used to riding in traditional race jerseys then this won’t be a problem for you and will definitely provide with some additional storage space if you are an endurance cyclist. Other good features incorporated in to jackets are visibility features such as reflective cuffs and back panels just to enhance your night time presence. Along the same lines some manufactures also provide tags on the back where you can attach lights to further enhance your night time visibility.