Santini Guard Neos rain jacket review

Boasting high waterproofness and breathability without the use of PFAS, can the Santini Guard Neos really deliver the ultimate rainwear performance while meeting eco ideals?

The Santini Guard Neos Rain Jacket in bright pink on a woman's torso standing in front of a wall and greenery
(Image credit: Future)
Cycling Weekly Verdict

The Santini Guard Neos rain jacket will be a brilliant addition to any cycling wardrobe since it keeps the elements at bay while providing excellent breathability. The performance fit and capabilities come at a cost - the price tag makes this a considered purchase.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    High water resistance

  • +

    Great breathability even on warm days

  • +

    PFAS-free fabric

  • +

    Reflective detailing

  • +

    Low cut back protection

  • +

    Taped seams and waterproof zip

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Only one small side pocket

  • -

    Questionable helmet hood addition

  • -

    Price

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Producing one of the best waterproof cycling jackets is not for the faint-hearted. Not only are there the demands of riders, who require ample breathability and water resistance, but legislation, banning PFAS fabrics in the USA and Europe, has challenged the way that manufacturers can achieve these qualities.

With the Guard Neos, Santini says it's created a credible, new gen, PFAS-free waterproof and breathable rain jacket using a plant-based alternative for additional eco kudos.

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Hannah Bussey

Hannah is Cycling Weekly’s longest-serving tech writer, having started with the magazine back in 2011. She has covered all things technical for both print and digital over multiple seasons representing CW at spring Classics, and Grand Tours and all races in between.

Hannah was a successful road and track racer herself, competing in UCI races all over Europe as well as in China, Pakistan and New Zealand.

For fun, she's ridden LEJOG unaided, a lap of Majorca in a day, won a 24-hour mountain bike race and tackled famous mountain passes in the French Alps, Pyrenees, Dolomites and Himalayas. 

She lives just outside the Peak District National Park near Manchester UK with her partner, daughter and a small but beautifully formed bike collection.