As the heavens open and drench cyclists in the new year, Stephen Shrubsall recommends three excellent waterproofs
Ideally your new rain jacket should offer three key elements.
- Stowability – heavy, thick coats will weigh you down, and if you're cycling for reasons other than pleasure, you don't want to have to keep a sodden raincoat draped over your arm when you get wherever you're going.
- Visibility – safety is paramount when cycling on roads, and a high-vis jacket helps make sure that any motorists are aware of your presence.
- Waterproof – the whole reason you're wearing a raincoat in the first place, and a must in Britain's winter months.
dhb Flashlight Compact-XT
This coat ticks all the relevant boxes. It packs away easily in jersey pockets, and it offers excellent visibility with reflective detailing adding to the jacket’s hi-vis hue.
And most importantly, due to taped seams, keeps its wearer nice and dry.
The Flashlight weighs in at a reasonable £52.
Buy it online from Wiggle
BBB RainShield
The BBB RainShield range of jackets are translucent, so providing you are wearing a bright jersey underneath, it will be effective in half-light and darker conditions. It packs effortlessly into jersey pockets or saddlebags and is easy to slip on and off.
The RainShield pretty much does what it says on the tin, and the perforated panels under the arms serve well to keep the jacket well ventilated.
The Ladies' Rainshield starts at £39.95.
Buy it online from Ribble
Altura Nevis II
This bespoke ladies’ fitting jacket is available in bright red or a hi-vis yellow and boasts superb water-repelling properties, keeping you dry in all but the heaviest of showers.
A mesh lining will see you snug on chillier days, while the breathable fabric ensures you don’t ‘boil in the bag’.
The Nevis II is a fairly friendly £49.49.
Buy it online from Tredz
