CASTELLI IDRO PRO 2
£340 High-performance pro-level rain jacket
It fits almost like a second skin, moving naturally with you as you pedal
SIZES S – XL COLOURS Black WEIGHT 185g WATERPROOFING Not stated BREATHABILITY Not stated
If you want to feel a little closer to the professionals, this jacket was designed for the pro peloton to wear in the worst of conditions. Cut from Gore’s Shakedry material it’s windproof, waterproof and highly breathable.
It’s beautifully made with a racer’s cut, using Shakedry on the main panels and arms. Shakedry uses only two layers, rather than three that sandwich a membrane. Here, the membrane serves as the outer layer where rain beads and runs off the surface. The performance is outstanding at keeping you dry inside and out.
To achieve the perfect cut and allow for movement Castelli has added Gore’s Topo fabric to the sides, shoulders, elbows and wrists.
Like Shakedry, this textured material is completely waterproof and breathable, but constructed in a way that allows it to stretch and the jacket only weighs 185g.
The combination of the two fabrics means it fits almost like a second skin, moving naturally with you as you pedal. The high-cut front ensures there’s no pedalling hindrance and the long rear offers good coverage while sitting perfectly in place.
The tall collar with its soft lining not only feels good but seals well, too, as
does Gore’s Topo fabric around the wrists. Up front, a quality, waterproof and decent-sized YKK Vision zip makes onehanded adjustment a cinch.
External rear pockets with drainage holes are useful for nutrition. These make life far easier, allowing you to train and race more efficiently in tough conditions.
Castelli’s Idro Pro 2 jacket has been cleverly thought out. The combination of aerodynamic cut, fabrics used and features make this an outstanding rain jacket worthy of its hefty price tag.
VERDICT
A no-compromise, rainbeating, race-fit jacket, if you have the cash
HIGHS Performance; fit; rider-friendly LOWS It’s not cheap