Lightweight rain jackets grouptest

Summary

Seven of the best stowaway cycling jackets

Products

Ride jacket, Lightweight jackets grouptest 2012 CA

Ride Protector

We test out the lightweight, waterproof Ride Protector jacket

£39.99

Score

Rapha jacket, Lightweight jackets grouptest 2012 CA

Rapha Women's Classic

We test out the lightweight, waterproof Rapha Classic jacket

£165.00

Score

BBB Mistral jacket, Lightweight jackets grouptest 2012 CA

BBB Mistral Shield

We test out the lightweight, waterproof BBB Mistral Shield jacket

£49.99

Score

Moa jacket, Lightweight jackets grouptest 2012 CA

Moa Othala

We test out the lightweight, waterproof Moa Othala jacket

£110.00

Score

Madison jacket, Lightweight jackets grouptest 2012 CA

Madison Stratos

We test out the lightweight, waterproof Madison Stratos jacket

£39.99

Score

Mavic jacket, Lightweight jackets grouptest 2012 CA

Mavic Helium

£79.99

Score

Verdict

The wide range in performance of the jackets is expected given the price differential but it is each company?s take on the stowaway jacket that surprised us the most.

Even at the lower price, companies are taking more care as to the tailoring of the garments and compared to the pac-a-macs of old, these latest high-tech rain jackets are a world apart.

There were two standout garments at two very differing price points. Madison?s Stratos offers very good weather resistance (admittedly at the expense of breathability) and the fit is excellent. Only the low-rent zipper prevented a top score.

At the other extreme, Rapha?s Wind Jacket is simply one of the best weather resistant pieces we?ve used. Impeccable fit, a good balance between rain-proofing and breathability with looks to match. If you can afford it, you won't be disappointed.