BIKE JACKETS

A well-chosen bike jacket will deflect the wind, retain warmth and promote breathability so you can keep riding outside this winter. We test eight

Triathletes seeking a 2019 personal best have no option but to head outdoors and face the elements. In the United Kingdom, that means dealing with temperatures that drop to a mid-winter average of 3.7°C.

Throw in a further windchill drop of up to 8°C and those long Sunday morning rides seem less appetising by the week. You can, of course, spend the entire winter cycling indoors (top Ironman pro Lionel Sanders spends the vast majority of his training time on the turbo), but full-time turbo-trainer sessions can allegedly kill motivation within two weeks. The solution? A windproof bike jacket that ideally features water-resistance, too.

As ever, the fit of the jacket is vital to maximise effort and enjoyment. Commuters can arguably get away with a bulkier cut but, for training rides, you want to minimise flapping in the wind so we’d advise a close and slim fit, but one large enough to squeeze a base layer under and, if needed, a mid-layer underneath.

The above highlights why trying before you buy is recommended, especially as sizing can vary markedly between manufacturers.

Other things to look for are the type and location of the pockets, from zipped to internal and rear. The texture of the collar is also important, as is the effectiveness of the front zipper and the ability to adjust it up or down with one hand while on the move.

And, finally, aesthetics also play a role, as, if you’re anything like us, you’ll end up wearing yours on the school run, to work and the pub. Now, onto the test…

rear pockets Can come open, zipped or both. The key is that they’re easily accessible, especially if they contain on-the-fly essentials. drop tail Bike jackets feature a slightly longer rear to prevent draughts when aero, as well as deflecting road detritus. water resistant A good windproof jacket will prevent water ingress, but the favourable breathability means full waterproofing is unlikely. extended sleeves Ensure these are long enough to prevent draughts in the aero position.