GORE G5 SHAKEDRY 1985 VIZ

£250 › Lightweight, packable and waterproof jacket

YOU NEED A PACKABLE JACKET all year round, such is the prospect of a dry ride turning wet. The holy grail of their type must have a trio of features – it needs to be lightweight, pack down small and offer some degree of water resistance. Up until now it’s been two out of the three at best, but Gore has changed all that with the Shakedry.

Our large test jacket weighs a paltry 134.3g, packs down into its own rear pocket at 15x8.5x7cm, which is plenty small enough to fit in a rear jersey pocket. Where it absolutely scores though is how well it protects you from the elements, the outer fabric feels almost waxy to the touch and it beads up moisture like it was made from one of Gore’s heavier weight, fully-approved waterproof fabrics, such as its legendary heavyweight membraned Gore-Tex.

The 1985 is an update of the groundbreaking One jacket, but while we really liked the One it did fall down in one crucial area, only being available in black. Not exactly what you want when riding on the road in the rain or in low light. The 1985 Viz addresses that by combining high-vis colours, yellow in our test version as well as red/orange details. Gore has also added sublimated reflective logo print and details, so while the jacket is still predominantly black it does have enough high-vis touches to stand out on the road.

It’s difficult not to pour superlatives on the 1985, it just hits all the bases bang on. The waterproofing is inherent in the fabric and won’t wear out or need to be reapplied like a Durable Water Repellant-style fabric, and because the fabric has the water resilience it retains its breathability. The fit is close but with just enough give to not be restrictive, the minimal zip has twin pulls, so you can unzip from the hem to access your jersey pockets without it flapping in the wind. The close-fitting collar is lined with a comfortable, soft-touch fabric and the cuffs have elasticated sections to keep them in place.

After plenty of showers and wet rides we’re still impressed with the 1985’s ability to shed water; you simply shake it or brush off the beaded water and the 1985 keeps on protecting. It is without doubt the best packable jacket on the market today, and that’s even taking into account the high price.