Top 15 Best Cycling Jackets Reviews In 2020

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Whenever the weather takes a turn, a cycling jacket comes in handy.

It keeps you from water splash of spring or summer light rains, strong gusts, and coldness of the fall and winter conditions, and remains your body protection against other impacts.

However, lots of novices told me that they found struggling while choosing the best cycling jacket on their own because there are too many options and the price range is vast.

Well, I guess it’s time my voice should be out. Based on over 8 years’ experience in this field, here is the top list in 2020 for you to consider.

Top 15 Best Cycling Jackets Reviews In 2020

BALEAF Men’s Cycling Jackets

The BALEAF Men’s Cycling Jacket is my recommendation for those who need an inexpensive yet comfortable and functional option for long road cycling trips.

It is lightweight, breathable, and gives some basic protection from wind or light rain.

During cooler days, its draft flap seals your body heat inside for extra warmth.

The two front hand zippered pockets are handy, and during my personal tests, I had no troubles with any of their hardware. There is, besides, a large back pocket with a flap where you can easily put in a 5.5” smartphone, small wallets, and keys.

A big bonus for the added zipper garage to prevent chafing while using it. The cycling jacket is also impressive for its superbly compact packed dimensions, which is small enough to be stored nicely in a back pocket.

Now is the biggest selling point! This unit is convertible from a long-sleeve jacket into a vest in just a few minutes, all thanks to the shoulder yoke and zip-off sleeves.

Product Specs

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ARSUXEO Windproof Cycling Jackets

For winter cyclers, this jacket is worth considering!

It is constructed of three layers, an outer windproof weatherproof, a middle waterproof-breathable, and inner warm-up fleece, all are made from 15% spandex and 85% polyester.

One notable thing about the top layer is it keeps stains at bay, and there is high-visible, reflective stripe and logo for more safety while you’re cycling at night.

What I really like about this product is the ultra-long cuffs so that your wrists will get extra coverage from harsh weather conditions.

Besides, it fits great. The secrets? Well, they all lie in its stretch inserts, elastic hem, and drop tail.

Product Specs

Castelli Perfetto Cycling Jackets

If your budget is on the table, I greatly suggest trying this cycling jacket from Castelli. Why?

Because it gives really superior quality and performance to other lower-end models.

The most impressive feature is its kicker for increasing overall aerodynamic performance, and the Gore Windstopper X-Lite Plus fabric for higher air ventilation, water resistance, and wind-blocking levels.

All the hardware (zippers) of this jacket is also leveraged, using the YKK Vislon for more length and convenient usage. An added silicone gripper at the waist for ride-up prevention.

Regardless, it gives you three rear pockets, a reflective logo, and Storm-flap construction.

Product Specs

Gore Men’s C3 GTX Waterproof Cycling Jackets

The Gore Men’s C3 GTX is specifically designed for cool weather conditions, like fall and winter depending on the climate you intend to go cycling.

In general, its windproof and waterproof capabilities are pretty top-notch, in addition to the air ventilation. That’s a big thank you to the GORE-TEX Active Technology and 100% other fibers.

By the way, this fabric is machine washable.

It also provides you with front and rear zippered pockets to keep your essentials, adjustable waistband for a better fit, and extended back for extra coverage.

A great plus is the ergonomic bike-specific cut, keeping the jacket hugging more to your body but has room for layering. In other words, it allows for layers on a normal body, not to form fit a string bean.

Product Specs

Sponeed Men’s Windproof Cycling Jackets

For a men’s cycling jacket in mid-tier pricing, this is a nice try.

It features a full open zippered design, thermal-lined with a 100% polyester fleece interior internal layer, and the latest windproof technology. Easy to guess, you hardly beat this cycling jacket for its heat retention and wind resistance to use for mild wintry.

Some customers even said that they didn’t wear as much clothing inside as they used to with other jackets.

Now, how about its breathability?

In my opinion, it is very good. A good proof is I am a heavy sweat guy who even gets sweating during winter cycling trips, however, it didn’t happen when I wear this, thanks to the breathable middle layer on jersey back.

All-in-all, this is a nice try for cyclists of all levels, especially during fall to mildly cold winter.

Product Specs

Pearl Izumi – Ride Pro Cycling Jackets

While the Sponeed is a good choice for daily rides during the winter, this is my reliable pick for longer trips based on its superior warmth and weather protection.

It keeps me toasty warm when it is around 38 to 40 degrees F, wearing just a wicking t-shirt underneath and no jersey.

For colder conditions, I usually put on an additional vest and thermal jersey for a one-hour riding trip.

The P.R.O. Pursuit softshell jacket makes me feel peace in mind when cycling in harsh weather because it highlights a 3-layer membrane softshell combined with thermal material in key splash zones.

Besides, its moisture-wicking thermal panels and windproof zippers play a nice role in keeping coldness at bay.

The good news for those who don’t prefer washing their cycling jackets manually, this one is machine-washable.

Product Specs

Castelli Alpha ROS Rain Cycling Jackets

I do appreciate the extended length of this cycling jacket, which is down to the rider’s hip for more coverage against the weather.

It is form-fitting and particularly created for winter usage with an emphasis on 10,000mm waterproof rating and Gore Windstopper 150 Fabric for windproof properties.

For souped-up weather protection, it features raw edge wrist cuffs, raw-edge waist, YKK Vislon zippers, and the seam sealing on shoulders for rain protection.

Making it stand out from the rest is alpha construction which separates its water/wind protection layer from the insulated fabric one to hence leverage the apparel’s sweat evaporation and air ventilation to extreme.

From that point, I find Castelli Alpha ROS Cycling Jacket to be the best option for cold to freezing conditions.

Product Specs

Endura Pro SL Cycling Jackets

The Endura Pro SL is designed in combination with Movistar – the world’s top team in manufacturing weatherproof cycling jackets so, it’s undoubtedly a shining candidate for pro cyclists.

It is made from high-stretch windproof material to create an athletic fit.

Added to its insulation are the stretch thermal rear panels, thermal lining on the sleeves and front, and extended cuff design.

It also features external rear gripper to keep the apparel from riding up unwantedly. My most favorite part is its three pockets with full-length front zips for extra ease of use, and they keep my important stuff secure inside, no matter the weather conditions.

For safety when riding in the darkness, it has high-visible reflective trim.

Product Specs

INBIKE Cycling Jackets

Not just cycling, the INBIKE Cycling Jacket is versatile enough to suit other outdoor sports activities, such as jogging and running.

Wonder why?

Because it is designed with customers’ needs in mind. While providing you with subzero 10-degree thermal and windproof capabilities, along with decent breathability, it is very soft and comfortable to wear.

Its construction includes an inner fleece lining, a polyester ripstop shell with mesh pockets, all are made from high permeability materials.

Keeping all the elements out is the elastic binding and drop tail hem. It also has a zip garage for neck irritation prevention and full zipper design to provide extra room for layering.

Of course, it is added with a reflective back logo and front stripe for high visibility in darkness.

Product Specs

GORE WEAR Men’s C5 Cycling Jackets

The GORE WEAR Mens C5 is guaranteed to boost your cycling performance to the extreme regardless of weather conditions.

It boasts GORE-TEX Active SHAKEDRY Technology, which is known as a permanently pearling upper fabric with highlights in top-notch breathability, windproof and waterproof properties. Additionally, it is machine-washable.

The stretch fabric and ergonomic bike-specific cut give it nice form-fitting, in combination with an all-black design, it looks cool and attractive.

When not in use, just roll it over. The jacket is able to be packed to a super-small size that you can easily put it in the back pocket.

One thing to take note of is that it isn’t suitable to be worn with a backpack.

Product Specs

Proviz Pixelite Softshell Cycling Jackets

To be honest, one of the initial reasons I decided to try this cycling jacket was its origin, Italy, where the manufactured products are all known for its unrivaled craftsmanship and durability.

And, glad that my purchase was right.

The highlight point of this jacket is a soft-stretch mix of brushed thermal microfiber, elastane, and polyester, combined with three-layer construction for decent breathability and windproof.

This material blend also gives you stretch fit and superb comfort.

There is PixElite fabric (commonly found in high-end garments) on lower back, shoulders, sides, and arms for high visibility when riding in low light conditions, enhancing your safety.

Some other noteworthy features are zip garage for chafing prevention, 2” elastic cuff design for windproof and higher insulation levels, and lock-zip pockets. Ah, did I tell you that is machine washable?

Product Specs

Outto Mens Winter Cycling Jackets

This regular-fit cycling jacket from Outto is my suggestion for any cyclists in a tight budget. It is priced around $20 to $25, but the quality appears to be excellent.

A good example is its triple-layer design, including a windproof coating layer, water-resistant membrane, and a fleece lining. It prevents water splash, resists strong gusts, and keeps you warm pretty well.

A big bonus is it doesn’t flap at high speeds, all thanks to the added silicone gripper on the back hem and elasticated waistband.

For increased wind protection, the jacket is also added with elastic sleeve cuffs and collar inner flap.

If you’re about to go cycling on those days forecasted to have light rain, wind, and coldness, this is a great selection.

Product Specs

Louis Garneau Cycling Jackets

Next up is the Louis Garneau Cycling Jacket!

It has three-layer construction, with the main one made completely of high-quality polyester and the secondary from 8% spandex by 92% polyester.

There’s also one extra layer of Light Mesh Airdry® to wick moisture away fast, leaving your skin always dry and comfortable.

I love it for the ultimate practical design, comprising of a rear zippered pocket, a neck zip garage, a full-length zipper with internal flap, and a soft elastic cuff and waistline.

The apparel is very breathable, comfortable, and moisture controllable in my opinion. The secrets lie all in its various ventilation inserts at the back and wind-breaking material at the front. From that point, this is a flawless option for cool weather conditions.

To ensure your safety when riding at night, it is inserted with some reflective accents throughout the design for 36-degree high visibility.

Product Specs

Showers Pass Elite 2.1 Cycling Jackets

Introducing to you another reliable jacket for cyclists – the Showers Pass Elite 2.1.

It is a favorite pick of many pros, like the Cross-country Skiers, Kayakers, everyday commuters, and Katusha Pro Russian Cycling team, due to its thoughtful construction for long-distance rides.

It offers the user a trim fit that you can wear an additional layer of jersey or t-shirt underneath.

Long sleeves with elastic cuffs offer extra wrist coverage and windproof capability. On those summer days, don’t worry, it has six venting options for enhance airflow inside, keeping you cool.

About storage space, it gives you a chest pocket and a large one on the back where you can put in many essentials, such as a smartphone, flat repair kit, and energy bars.

It also has 3M Reflective trim as well.

Product Specs

Sportful B1101135 Cycling Jackets

For those who don’t know, Sportful B1101135 is in its 5th generation of the do-it-all Hot Pack series cycling jackets that keep setting the standard.

It is known for unparalleled packability, lightness, ventilation, water resistance, and wind protection.

The unit has high visible reflective screenprint, back ventilating options, inner stuff compression sack, and high collar. The cuff design, on the other hand, has thumb holes for a better fit, ride-up prevention, and wind resistance.

A big bonus for its minimal seaming on the front to keep water splash, drizzle, and rain from entering.

At the price range of $80 to $90, this is an unbeatable option for cyclists.

Product Specs

The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Cycling Jackets In 2020

Materials

From the review list above, you might realize that almost each cycling jacket is made of specific material blends or signature fabrics, which appears to be overwhelming.

It makes us wonder that which is the best material for a cycling jacket or which one is better. Well, after years of testing and experiencing, I can confidently tell you that cycling jackets are commonly made of three main materials:

• Nylon
• Lycra
• Polyester

If a manufacturer lists their products are made of something sound strange, believe me, it is just a variation of one of them.

What you need to pay attention to are its waterproof and windproof properties. In fact, you can’t have it in both ways, meaning that a high-windproof jacket can’t offer top-notch waterproof performance, and vice versa.

So, determining your needs and choose the most balanced compromise between the two of them.

In other words, considering when and where you will most often be using your new jacket is important.

Fit

There are two common types of fit (also known as cut) when choosing a cycling jacket – regular/loose fit and form-fitting, depending on the degrees of your performance.

For example, most cyclists choose a regular-fitting cycling jacket for mounting biking while a form-fitting is favorited by road-cycling people.

Why?

Road riding is usually at high speeds and a form-fitting jacket will hug their body nicely without flapping like the regular-fitting design, hence, it causes less wind fraction, keeping you move faster.

Besides, it minimizes body heat loss during the ride.

Pockets

While many novices ignore this element when looking for a cycling jacket, it is in fact an important thing for your convenience.

Without it, where you intend to keep your hands in for warmth? Where to store your smartphone, wallet, and other essentials? Not only do I highly recommend choosing a cycling jacket with pockets but this feature also should be carefully considered.

Based on which stuffs you intend to bring along, choose jacket pockets whether with waterproof capability or not.

You also should think about the closure levels of these pockets.

Look for those jackets with two rear hand pockets, and a larger one for your stuff. It could be fully open, closed by a zipper, Velcro strap, or a bit stretch at the top.

FAQs

What is the best rain jacket for cycling?

My recommendations are:

• BALEAF Men’s Cycling Jackets
• Gore Men’s C3 GTX Cycling Jackets
• Castelli Alpha ROS Cycling Jackets
• Outto Mens Winter Cycling Jackets
• Sportful B1101135 Cycling Jackets

How should a cycling jacket fit?

It should fit your cycling styles. For example, a loose fit jacket for mountain biking and a form-fitting for road riding.

What is the best winter cycling jacket?

I suggest:

• ARSUXEO Cycling Jackets
• Gore Men’s C3 GTX Cycling Jackets
• Sponeed Men’s Windproof Cycling Jackets
• Pearl Izumi – Ride Pro Cycling Jackets
• Castelli Alpha ROS Cycling Jackets

What is the best waterproof cycling jacket?

I highly recommend:

• ARSUXEO Cycling Jackets
• Gore Men’s C3 GTX Cycling Jackets
• Castelli Alpha ROS Cycling Jackets
• GORE WEAR Men’s C5 Cycling Jackets
• Showers Pass Elite 2.1 Cycling Jackets

Conclusion

Preposterous price, a huge number of models, and deceptive marketing claims combine to make cycling jacket shopping a daunting task.

My in-depth testing process and meticulous rounded-up list aim to crack the code for this product based on your cycling styles, budget, and other needs. Hopefully, this ultimate buying guide has keyed you into the best cycling jacket. Happy cycling!