The 12 best waterproof cycling jackets
As a cyclist, you’ll be aware of how much it rains in the UK (a lot). But, while you might be happy to accept that fact, there’s nothing comfortable about getting soaked during a ride. Especially if it’s unexpected and you’re left without protection.
However, getting yourself a robust waterproof cycling jacket will make cycling in wet weather more enjoyable. But with so many options on the market, where do you start?
Choosing the best waterproof cycling jacket: What to look for
The main thing to try and avoid when it comes to your cycling gear is scrimping. Of course, you may not want to max out your budget on an all-singing, all-dancing model. But for comfort, we’d suggest spending as much as you can afford on a decent jacket that won’t let you down when it starts pouring.
Look for practical features over and above water-repellence, too. Internal waterproof pockets are always a winner – as are high-vis elements to ensure you’re not only dry but also safe.
How warm do you need the jacket to be? If you’re seeking something that will fend off water during the spring and summer, you’ll get away with a lightweight jacket. But when cycling in cold weather, you may want to go for something like a softshell jacket with insulation for another layer of protection over your cycling jersey.
Don’t forget breathability. It’s all well and good being protected from rain on the outside, but if your jacket’s fabric means you build up a sweat, it’s almost pointless.
Lastly, depending on where and how often you’ll be cycling, you might also want to consider a jacket that packs away easily into a bag or backpack.
With all this in mind, here’s our lowdown on the top waterproof cycling jackets for both men and women.
Price: £270
The MAAP Atmos Jacket provides waterproof protection while giving you a streamlined fit. Its super lightweight design makes the jacket easily packable for intermittent rain and comes with reflective features, so you’ll be seen in low light. You even have the choice of four stylish colours: fungi, clay, navy, and black.
Price: £165
The Velocio Ultralight Jacket does exactly what it says on the tin. Weighing less than a cup of sugar, it’s easily packable, and the three-season outer layer provides great protection against the wind and rain. When you first try this jacket on, it may feel tight across the chest, but this is because it’s designed to be worn in a cycling position. So, it should fit perfectly once you’re on your bike with your arms forward.
Price: £155
The hydrophobic shell material, AquaGuard zip and rear drop-tail design of this jacket will help protect you from rain at every angle. It’s super lightweight and has a locker loop to hang your jacket up to dry straight after your rides.
Price: £350
The Albion Zoa Rain Shell jacket is an excellent option if you’re looking for a breathable waterproof cycling jacket. The jacket also includes a drawstring hood, which can be fitted over a helmet for extra protection against the rain, and reflective elements on the forearms and rear of the jacket to ensure you’re seen.
Price: £125
This Altura cycling jacket is ideal for those looking for a breathable waterproof jacket that offers visibility in low light conditions. The jacket boasts large reflective areas on the arms and rear and is made from ripstop fabric designed to resist wear and tear.
Price: £29.99
Decathlon is the brand of choice if you’re looking for a jacket that does the job but doesn’t cost the earth. This jacket ticks both of those boxes.
It’s lightweight, has high-visibility, and has been tested to keep you dry over a decent distance. The fabric is also breathable, meaning you’ll be dry inside and out. It comes with an affordable price tag, too.
Price: £240
The Castelli Idro Pro 2 sits at the opposite end of the price scale but justifies its extra cost. It’s breathable, lightweight, and – thanks to its Gore-Tex SHAKEDRY fabric – is guaranteed to keep you dry, whatever the weather throws at you.
The jacket is also packed with impressive features such as stretch inserts at the elbows, shoulders, and sides, plus fully waterproof external pockets.
Oh, and it’s Italian. Which means it looks cool. Yes, it’s pricey. But if you’ve set aside a sizeable budget for your next cycling jacket, this is our top choice.
Price: £225
The Santini Vega Extreme is a great option if you’re looking for a jacket that won’t just keep you dry but warm, too.
Stocked in a range of stylish colours, this three-layer softshell jacket offers excellent heat insulation, perfect for cycling in winter. It’s waterproof, fast drying, has high-visibility, and includes clever technology as part of the package.
Price: £66.99
With “storm” in its name, you’d expect this Madison jacket to protect you in all kinds of adverse weather conditions. And that it does.
Although it’s a little heavier than other models on this list (which means it’s not as easy to pack away), the Madison RoadRace Apex Storm Waterproof is an absolute winner when it comes to repelling wind, rain, and more.
It’s perfectly breathable and stands up to the more expensive jackets out there. And at well under £100, it’s a steal.
Price: £100
As you’ll have guessed from the name, this jacket is made for throwing on top of your workwear for a rainy journey to or from the office. That means it’s ideal for shorter city journeys on which you don’t plan to get hot or sweaty.
It comes in a great range of bright colours, ensuring you’ll be seen from afar, and is incredibly lightweight while still offering great waterproofness.
Price: £140
Another packable option, the Endura MTR Shell is great if you’re looking for a versatile jacket that is light but still keeps you dry.
Full disclosure: it comes without pockets (these have been removed to make way for its lightweight portability). However, it more than makes up for that in terms of comfort and clean lines.
It’s very breathable, making it a great option for warmer rainy days when insulation isn’t as much of a priority.
Price: £250
Last, but by no means least, is the Gore SHAKEDRY 1985 Viz. It’s an absolute corker of a jacket that’s durable in any weather.
It’s very light (just 140g), which means it can be packed away easily – but without compromising on the incredible water repellence that SHAKEDRY fabric provides. Relax as you watch water beading up and rolling off you.
It’s also highly breathable and packs down small, with lots of pockets to keep your phone, keys, and wallet safe and dry. You’ll need deep pockets to purchase this jacket, but you won’t be disappointed if you do.
Specialist cycling insurance through Cycleplan
Whichever of these waterproof cycling jackets you choose to buy, you may want to consider protecting you and your bike with specialist cycling insurance.
This protects you if your bike is lost, damaged or stolen, providing you report it to the police within 24 hours.
At Cycleplan, we arrange equipment cover for a range of bikes up to a total value of £30,000. We also offer additional policies such as public liability and personal accident cover.
Find out more about specialist cycling insurance or get a quick online quote today.
Please note the information provided on this page should not be taken as advice and has been written as a matter of opinion. For more on insurance cover and policy wording, see our homepage.
