Best cycling jackets for braving the elements in 2026 – for men and women

The best cycling jackets are a practical addition to your triathlon kit along with running jackets unless you live in a particularly warm and dry climate.

Acting as a convenient outer layer, it should provide valuable protection from the elements while being light and thin enough to be stashed in a pocket.

Ideally, a cycling jacket should be a trusty layering piece you can quickly put on during transition or on a training ride, either as a final addition or under a gilet.

We’ve reviewed the best cycling jackets for men and women you can buy in 2026 to help you choose the right one for your riding. After reading the reviews, continue scrolling to reach our buyer’s guide and top tips.

Meet our testers

Rob Slade has been testing outdoor gear for over a decade and is 220’s previous Content Editor. Rob started on the team as a beginner triathlete and now has completed several races. He casts his keen eye for detail over cycling jackets to identify their pros and cons.

Sarah Broadley has been a triathlete since 2012 and is now an open-water swim coach based in the Cotswolds. A keen swimmer and cyclist, Sarah has been a gear tester for 220 for several years. 

1. Gore Spinshift Gore-Tex

Price	$270 / £225
Weight	5.18oz / 147g
Features	Zipped rear pocket, 360-degree reflectivity
Waterproofing	Gore-Tex ePE membrane, taped seams
Sizing	Women’s XS/4-6 to XL/EU44; Men’s S-2XL

The Gorewear Spinshift Gore-Tex jacket looks good, repels wind and rain, and is comfy and practical. 

In the yellow colour I tested it’s also very visible and has reflective details on the front, back and arms. 

The flap-free fit is excellent too. Even when you get low on the bike, the arms and tail are long enough to keep out the elements. 

Despite its low weight (5.18oz/147g), the Spinshift has handy features. There’s a small, zipped rear pocket, loop for hanging it up and waterproof front zip. While this is welcome, it’s quite hard to use with gloves on.

Read my full Gorewear Spinshift Gore-Tex review for more.

Review by Sarah Broadley

2. MAAP Atmos

Price	$345 / £270
Weight	4.66oz/132g
Features	Elasticated sleeve cuff, reflective logos
Waterproofing	20k waterproof rating,Two-way Pertex Shield, taped seams, YKK waterproof zip
Sizing	Women’s 2XS-XL; men’s XS-2XL

The MAAP Atmos uses Pertex’s Shield Fabric to deliver its waterproofing, with a 20,000mm HH and taped seams. Water beads up effortlessly on the surface and I found no weak points in the jacket’s weather protection. 

I found the sleeves plenty long enough and they fit closely around the wrists to keep warm air in and weather out. It’s a close fit on the body, so size up if you’re between sizes. There was some excess fabric around the forearms for me that tended to catch the wind. 

You get a two-way zip, which is always appreciated, plus a full-length internal storm flap behind the YKK waterproof zip. 

The style is classy and, if this pinkish colour isn’t your thing, there are a few other choices.  

Weighing in at 4.66oz / 132g (large), the Atmos packs down as small as a can of pop. 

Review by Rob Slade

3. Scott RC Pro Gore-Tex Waterproof

Price	£274.99 (US pricing N/A)
Waterproofing	Gore-Tex Paclite Plus, 28k hydrostatic head, taped seams, storm flap
Sizing	S-2XL men only
Features	Two-way YKK zip, packable
Weight	4.47g / 127g (size large)

The Scott RC Pro Gore-Tex Waterproof Jacket largely justifies its status as one of the priciest men’s waterproof cycling jackets on the market.

Waterproofing is phenomenal thanks to its Gore-Tex material, taped seams and well-sealed zip. You also get impressive breathability. 

Fit is good overall, but the jacket was loose over the chest for me, which didn’t seem very aero. 

The RC Pro Gore-Tex is light and easily packable, but it also provides features like a two-way, water-resistant zip and high neck collar. 

If you want exceptional protection from the rain, the Scott RC Pro Gore-Tex is well worth considering. Just check that it fits you better than me. 

Read my full Scott RC Pro Gore-Tex Waterproof Jacket review for more.

Review by Rob Slade

4. Castelli Perfetto RoS 3 

Price	$320 / £280
Weatherproofing	windproof, water-resistant 5,000HH, for 4°C – 14°C / 39°F – 57°F, breathability 25,000 g/m² MVTR
Features	3 rear pockets, ventilation zips, drop tail, reflective detailing, PFAS-free, two-way zip
Weight	8.6oz/244g (UK M)
Sizes	XS-3XL

The Castelli Perfetto RoS 3 is a versatile cycling softshell built around Polartec AirCore fabric, balancing wind protection, water resistance and breathability. I tested it in cool, changeable weather, and found it delivers a snug, aerodynamic fit with stretch for layering and effective ventilation via large front zips.

Windproofing and weather resistance are strong, though it isn’t a fully waterproof shell in heavy rain. The tailored cut, extended tail and reflective details add comfort and practicality, while three rear pockets make it ride-ready.

Minor drawbacks include limited shower protection and the lack of a zipped pocket, but overall this jacket excels for mixed-condition rides.

Read my full review of the Castelli Perfetto RoS 3 for more.

Review by Rob Slade

5. Ryzon Signature Cycling Rain Jacket

Price	$325 / £255
Weight	5.19oz/147g
Features	Reflective prints, elastic hem, two-way zip
Waterproofing	20k water column, taped seams
Sizing	Women’s 2XS-XL; men’s XS-XL

The Ryzon Signature Cycling Rain jacket is impressive, but it’s not perfect. For one, the front of the jacket is shorter than the other men’s options here. The zip pulls are also pretty small, so can be a bit fiddly to use if you’re gloved up. 

That aside, there’s a lot to like. It’s stylish, there are multiple colour choices, the sleeves are lengthy and the cuffs fit well. The fit on the body was close without being restrictive, too, though the waist hem isn’t as close-fitting as some. 

Weather protection is classy, with taped seams, a hydrostatic head (HH) rating of 20,000mm and a PFC-free DWR coating. 

Water beads up well on the outer, but the zip isn’t fully waterproof. 

Internal and external storm flaps add an extra layer of protection, but are weak points in heavy or sustained  downpours. The jacket weighs 5.19oz/149g.

Review by Rob Slade

6. Stolen Goat Kiko

Price	$190 / £140
Weight	6.2oz/176g
Features	YKK Aquaguard zip, fleece-lined collar, zipped rear pocket
Waterproofing	15k hydrostatic head rating
Sizing	Women’s XS-3XL; men’s XS-3XL

Stolen Goat kit often balances value and performance well. 

In testing, the fit proved to be the main let down. The jacket felt tight around the neck, the sleeves came up a little short when stretching and the cuffs didn’t fit very closely, meaning they’re prone to letting cold air inside. 

The chest, waist and upper arms also felt loose. Though that may not be a bad thing if you’re  stockier. The two-way zip comes with a full-length internal storm flap and large zip pulls, which is good to see. 

A HH rating of 15,000mm helped keep me dry in downpours, but certain areas of the fabric wetted out quickly, which can make it feel colder and less breathable. 

Pack size was a little larger than a Coke tin, while a weight of 6.2oz/176g (size large) was the heaviest men’s option on test. Meanwhile, a rear zip pocket easily houses a smartphone.

Review by Rob Slade

Price	$251 / £180
Weight	4.5oz/128g
Features	Reflective logos, long tail, zipped rear pocket
Waterproofing	5,000m water column
Sizing	Women’s 2XS-3XL; men’s XS-4XL

‘Dark clouds’ is the Latin translation of Nimbus and it’s on rainy days in circa 10°C temperatures where this Santini shines.

Easily stashable into a cycling jersey’s rear pocket, this 4.5oz/128g jacket’s water protection comes courtesy of a double layer fabric.

The seams – not just taped but ‘thermo-welded’ – help prevent precipitation penetration and overall the Nimbus’ fabric can withstand light rain showers (downpours will eventually triumph).

Bonus points are added for the waterproof sleeve cuffs, although the tail isn’t as long as some. The single zipper pocket is easy to access and will hold a phone and fuel, while the fit feels the most aerodynamic.

There’s an element of windproofing, while reflective details aid visibility (or buy the orange version).

Review by Rob Slade

8. Ciovita Apex Pachetto

Price	$318 / £261
Weight	Not stated
Features	Sealed seams, two-way YKK waterproof zip, chest pocket
Waterproofing	10,000mm water column
Sizing	Women’s XS-XL; men’s S-3XL

The Ciovita Apex Pachetto sets a high bar for cycling jackets with its impressive waterproof rating, superb fit, breathability and low weight.

It’s rare for a cycling jacket to be as portable as the Apex Pachetto (you’ll easily fit it into a jersey pocket) while featuring pockets and a hood. This fits under or over a helmet. The long and elasticated tail is another great touch.

The Apex Pachetto has few flaws except that a brighter colourway isn’t available. It could do with more of the reflective strips which run on the front, back and arms.

Read my full Ciovita Apex Pachetto review for more.

Review by Sarah Broadley

9. Rapha Core Rain Jacket

Price	$170 / £130
Weight	Not stated
Features	Two-way YKK waterproof zip, reflective armband and logos
Waterproofing	‘Fully waterproof’
Sizing	Women’s 2XS-XL; men’s S-3XL

The Rapha Core Rain Jacket II offers excellent comfort and good protection from the rain at a reasonable price.

The relaxed fit coupled with the softer shell allowed for all day riding comfort. 

The classic Rapha styling, with single white armband, gives the jacket a striking look. It has some good looking features that offer practicality too such as the offset zip to prevent chafing and the lightweight, stretchy inner cuffs. These keep the elements out and warmth in. 

Whilst the rain was kept out the ventilation holes  under the armpits weren’t adequate on longer rides and some moisture did build  up.

A longer tail to the jacket would help keep the bibshorts drier, however the  elastic cord did ensure a secure fit. 

The jacket is light and packs up small but there’s a lack of pockets. The competitive price point is a bonus, though!

Review by Sarah Broadley

10. Sportful Fiandre Shift Jacket

Price	$375/£210
Features	Windproof, breathable and water repellent Polartec AirCore, three rear pockets, two-way zip, racy fit
Sizes	Men’s S-3XL, women’s XS-2XL
Colours	Black, Sand, Teal Blue, Bright Orange

The Sportful Fiandre Shift jacket offers high-end Polartec AirCore performance at a friendlier price than rivals like the Castelli Perfetto earlier in this article.

It delivers solid wind protection, warmth and breathability in cool, dry conditions, though it isn’t suited to heavy rain since seams aren’t sealed and vents are limited.

Fit is close yet comfortable with long sleeves and three secure rear pockets, but there’s no zip pocket and the front zips can be fiddly with gloves.

For riders who want winter cycling warmth and versatility without premium pricing, the Fiandre Shift is a strong choice, especially if you rarely face wet weather.

Read my full review of the Sportful Fiandre Shift Jacket for more.

Review by Rob Slade

11. Sportful Fiandre Pro 2

Price	$170 / £130
Weight	Not stated
Features	Three rear pockets, Polartec windproof fabric
Waterproofing	Water resistant
Sizing	Women’s XS-2XL; men’s S-3XL

Sportful’s Fiandre Pro 2 Jacket is a colourful option and its Polartec Neoshell fabric offers a breathable waterproof without the crunchy shell feel of other jackets. 

The bright colour makes it easy to spot on even the dullest of days. The soft inside felt warm and cosy.  

There are three super useful large pockets on the back of the jacket which even have drain holes should you get caught in a  downpour. 

The jacket has a performance  fit with stretch fabric. Although the sleeves were generous in length, I found the fitting around the biceps quite snug. This makes it slightly harder to get on if your arms are already wet. 

This jacket is a great option on the days you don’t know what the weather will throw at you. 

You can leave home without a shell in your back pocket and know you’ll stay dry and warm if the rain does come.

Review by Sarah Broadley

12. Le Col Pro Lightweight Rain Jacket

Price	$230 / £180
Weight	4.9oz / 139g
Features	Taped internal seams
Waterproofing	Pertex Shield, ‘fully waterproof’
Sizing	Women’s XS-XL; men’s XS-3XL

The Le Col Pro Lightweight Rain Jacket is exactly that. It protects you from the rain with its Pertex shield and taped seams. 

Being lightweight, it is ideal for carrying  when the rain dries up. I found the race cut is tight in the body despite the sleeves being of good length. 

The elasticated wrists do keep the rain out but the elasticated fabric feels quite coarse on the wrists. 

I found the zip really difficult to get all the way to the top as it catches on the fabric cover, resulting in some chafing. 

It offers a clean-cut design with bright reflective marking on the rear for visibility. It’s adequately breathable and packs down well. 

The environmentalist within me loves the fact that it is made of 59% recycled polyester and that the waterproof coating is free from PFCs. 

Review by Sarah Broadley

Add a cycling gilet

13. MAAP Low Insulated Vest

• £160

Bike gilets are usually worn as a wind barrier first and foremost, but a touch of insulation can make them far more versatile, and that’s where the Flow Insulated Vest stands out. By using Teijin Octa insulation across the chest and shoulders, it delivers noticeable warmth while still avoiding the stuffy feel that heavier layers can bring.

Maap rates the vest for use between 6–16ºC (43–60ºF), a claim that I found holds up in real-world riding. Wind is well managed thanks to dense ripstop fabric across the front and upper back, and it sheds light drizzle without issue.

To prevent heat buildup, Maap switches to a lighter ripstop through the side panels and lower back, improving airflow where it’s most needed. Practical details round things out, including a two-way zipper and a broad hem gripper to keep everything in place.

Review by Rob Slade

14. Le Col Pro Insulated Gilet

• £160

Le Col’s take on the gilet targets much the same use case, though its approach to fit and insulation sets it apart. In my usual size large, the cut felt noticeably loose, allowing air to billow inside and undermining its ability to retain heat (making careful sizing particularly important).

Warmth comes from Polartec Alpha Active insulation across the upper section, which adds meaningful insulation without tipping into excess. Wind protection is generally effective, although the storm flap behind the zipper stops short, running only around two-thirds of the vest’s length.

Review by Rob Slade

How we tested cycling jackets

Experienced 220 Triathlon reviewers have put these cycling jackets to the test in the wet and wind to assess their weatherproofing. 

Besides a waterproof membrane, they look for details like taped seams, waterproof zips, closely-fitting cuffs and rear flaps. 

Our testers assess the jackets’ breathability by seeing how effectively they regulate temperature. 

They also evaluate whether the jackets fit true to size and if they’re snug or looser in the correct places. 

We often wear cycling jackets in winter, bad weather and low light. So our reviewers look for bright colours and reflective detailing to enhance visibility. 

Lastly, they take into account value for money by judging the jackets’ performance versus their price and the competition. 

Features to look for in a cycling jacket

As there are a great many cycling jackets out there for both men and women, it can be tricky to decide which one to buy.

Firstly, you should think about whether to prioritise windproofing or waterproofing. While waterproof jackets help stop the rain getting in, they tend to be less breathable than a lightweight windproof option, which should have enough ventilation to let out any sweat.

In general, it’s best to look out for cycling jackets with a high collar and insulated chest, but ventilation across the back and underarm areas.

Also, you’ll want to make sure you invest in a lightweight, easily packable cycling jacket that has space to store any energy gels or bars you take on the road.

We also like cycling jackets with a ‘dropped tail’, as it covers your lower back while leaning forward. And look out for a high-quality zip with a large pull so you can find it easily when wearing cycling gloves.

Before you make your final decision, don’t overlook the importance of colour. Making sure you’re easily visible to other road users is a vital safety precaution, so we recommend opting for a bright, reflective cycling jacket.

If you want something more substantial than the light and packable options listed here, take a look at our list of the best winter bike jackets.

Recent updates

• 10 November 2025: we added more information about our testers, specs of the products, and links to women’s and men’s versions where relevant. We also removed jackets that are no longer for sale.
• 11 January 2026: we added two new Castelli and Sportful jacket reviews and added a new favourite softshell jacket option to our best table.
• 6 February 2026: we added two gilet reviews that our tester particularly rated, including the MAAP Low Insulated Vest and Le Col Pro Insulated Gilet.