GUARD 3.0

www.zyrofisher.co.uk £139.99

To keep out the elements, the Guard 3.0 uses an elastic fabric and a hydrophilic membrane along with a waterproof main zip. The result is a bike jacket that blocks the wind well and repels most downpours, but in sustained torrential rain you’ll get a little damp. For a waterproof jacket, breathability is good and it was only when riding hard for long periods that we considered undoing the zip. The race fit means there’s little flapping in the wind when cruising along and the jacket is easily packable into a rear pouch, and even leaves room for a hand pump and energy bar. There’s only one side pocket, but lifting the jacket to access your jersey’s compartments is straightforward. The fleece collar and cuffs are soft and comfortable, but in heavy rain the cuffs get wet. A reflective stripe down the back, along with the Italian company’s logo, helps to improve visibility.