The Ultimate Riding Jacket?

My issue with super light waterproofs is they are generally not as windproof. And thus you can get cold quite easily if in actually harsh conditions.

Sure they're find for mild days or a su.mer downpour, but actually winter rain, no way.

anyone tried the Paramo Fuera Smock? I know its technically a wind proof, but wondered if its OK with Nik Wax to keep some of the rain off too? Fairly cheap. Only thing I do see regularly mentioned about Paramo stuff is a baggy/odd fit

I have it and like it for running and sometimes cycling. It's really really not waterproof at all, though I haven't tried proofing it. It is baggy yeah.

Hmm. think its kinda thing I'd have to try on before purchasing

I got mine from go-outdoors, years ago. The size is fine for running/casual but gets billowey(?!) on the bike

One week in and i'm very happy with the Finisterre Mistral jacket i picked up half price in the sale;

https://finisterre.com/collections/mens-outerwear/products/mens-mistral-waterproof-jacket-a9

I can't rate how waterproof it is yet but the reviews are good. Also, it's fairly light, appears to breath well, looks well made and is under £100. The web is showing only XS left but Covent Garden had a few other sizes including the medium i returned this morning (i went for small).

After trying on NorthFace Apex, Patagonia GTX and Rapha GTX something or other (all of which had crap hoods) i was ready to fork out for an Arcteryx (i have Gamma and Atom, they're amazing) but i'm glad i gave this a try.

That's a really nice jacket, but that fit can't be good on bike surely?

It's for daily commuting so i don't need/want it to be race fit. My Arcteryx Gamma/Atom are definitely sleeker fits and will remain my go to jackets for drier days but i'd say there's not much between the Arcteryx GTX i tried and the Finisterre in terms of fit. I tried really hard to find the one do it all jacket but i'm not convinced it exists.

I bought a racier fit waterproof jacket for long rides but never wear it as if i think it'll rain i'm staying in!

Is goretex pro much better than normal goretex? I'm after leaving behind my berghaus goretex paclite shell in college and it looks like it's been finders keepers losers weepersed. I just want something really light and not hi vis yellow

There's 2 good condition goretex pro jackets near me for €120, but there's also this altura for €50 which looks like it might do. Or this endura jacket

I’ve worn goretex pro through some quite nasty weather, both on and off the bike. I am confident in its performance. It has never wetted through on me despite not caring for it so well. That said. The construction of the garment is as important as the material.

Patagonia Torrentshell

Just got one of these for £40 notes, reviews elsewhere say they're ok? Proof will be in use I guess, just wanted something for too and from work on foot, tram or bike.

Hopefully your experience is better than mine! I thought it was shit, ha ha. I replaced it with an Adidas Terrex Agravic number that I rate. Similar to the Torrentshell in that it's just a lightweight, waterproof shell. It's actually waterproof though and relatively breathable. It packs up nice and small as well, useful for shoving in a bag.

Wore it as a windstopper on a gentle errand ride this eve, was ok.

Is anything by North Face decent for riding in? I'm after a shell that's as waterproof as possible and ideally not boil in a bag. Will be worn on and off the bike. Asking specifically about North Face because I can get a nice discount. I don't want to spend the money on something that's no good though!

On a general note I've had more luck researching the fabric in question rather than the brand. Most brands will offer water resistant jackets in a variety of fabrics to hit all the price points.

Good suggestion, thank you!

The albion pertex or the arcterex lt that looks like a normal coat but fits with amazing adjustments on the bike.

Been rather fascinated by this frankenstein of a jacket with its mix of down, Pertex and Polartec Alpha and considering picking one up for bikepacking - more for off the bike at the end of a day's riding. Interested in thoughts on whether it's a smart idea or not. One concern is compressability but interested in other thoughts and feelings?

https://ultralightoutdoorgear.co.uk/blog/montane-axis-alpha-review-a-perfect-choice-for-high-workloads-in-unforgiving-environments/

Looks to be more for fastpacking / spine racer types?

Not sure what advantages it'll give for off the bike end of day use over less complex jackets?

I would recommend a basic down vest or long sleeve that you can park under a shell - you want as many multi use items as possible for weight and space saving.

Gimmicky

Based on

more for off the bike at the end of a day's riding

and

not designed to keep you warm when stationary

it sounds like you'll be cold and sad (speaking as someone who has bought many stupid jackets and been cold and sad as a result).

Just get a zoa and a good waterproof shell.