Winter cycling jacket

For 5–15°C and dry weather: softshell or thermal jersey; for 5–15°C and rain: lightweight waterproof; below 5°C: thermal jacket with a windproof front panel. The weather conditions for a winter ride determine your choice: a waterproof jacket in dry weather causes overheating and a build-up of sweat. A lightweight windbreaker in heavy rain will quickly become soaked. For all-round rides, a slightly waterproof and breathable jacket (Castelli Perfetto RoS) is the best compromise for most cyclists. For extreme conditions (driving rain + cold), only a dedicated waterproof jacket such as the Rapha Gore-Tex is suitable.

The same size as your cycling jersey, taking into account the layering with mid-layers. Cycling jackets are cut to fit the cycling posture (back extended, arms forward). A jacket that is too tight will constrict your arms in the aero position. A jacket that is too big will create air pockets and drag. For winter jackets worn with mid-layers, choose a size larger than your cycling jersey. Check that the sleeves are long enough when you’re leaning forward and that your lower back is well covered.

Yes, the Castelli Gabba has been a benchmark jacket in competitive cycling for over 10 years. The Gabba (and its RS version) uses a Gore Windstopper Gore-Tex fabric combined with stretch Lycra, offering an exceptional balance between waterproofing, breathability and fit. It fits like a close-fitting jersey, withstands light to moderate rain and adapts to changing conditions. Its high price (€200–250) is justified for cyclists who train in all weathers. Less expensive alternatives (Gore Wear Shakedry) offer different trade-offs.

Front windstop protection is sufficient because the cyclist’s back, when in a bent-over position, is almost parallel to the wind and does not require as much insulation. In an aero position on the bike, the torso faces the wind. The back, meanwhile, generates its own muscle heat and is partially protected by panniers or simply by the angle of the position. Jackets with front protection (windstop panels at the front, breathable fabric at the back) significantly reduce condensation and overheating compared to 360° waterproof jackets. This design is particularly effective in temperatures of 5 to 12°C.

B Breathable base layer + thermal jersey or thick jersey + windproof jacket: the three-layer system suitable for cycling.B The base layer (Craft Warm, Assos Skinfoil Winter) wicks away sweat and retains heat against the skin. The mid-layer (Roubaix jersey or thermal jersey) insulates and regulates temperature. The outer layer (windproof or waterproof jacket) protects against the elements. Never over-insulate: you should feel slightly cold when you first start pedalling. You can always add layers during your ride if necessary.

It depends on the conditions: a softshell if you often ride in 5–12°C without heavy rain; a waterproof jacket if you regularly face the rain. The softshell offers greater comfort, freedom of movement and better breathability for intense efforts. It handles light rain but fails in heavy rain. The waterproof jacket guarantees protection from the rain but traps sweat during intense climbs. For a cyclist riding in all weathers in a damp region, the waterproof jacket is the priority. For a cyclist in a continental region with dry, cold winters, the softshell makes more sense.

Wash regularly (dirt clogs the pores of the membranes), dry at a low temperature and reactivate the DWR treatment by ironing through a cloth. The waterproofing of Gore-Tex jackets diminishes when the fibres become dirty: water no longer beads up but spreads and soaks into the outer fabric without passing through the membrane. Wash with Nikwax Tech Wash or Grangers (without fabric softener), then tumble dry at a low temperature or give it a quick press with an iron (at a low temperature, with a protective cloth) to reactivate the DWR treatment. This should be repeated every 5 to 10 washes.

Yes, for occasional short rides, but a running jacket is not designed for the cycling position. Running jackets are cut for a standing position: when leaning forward on a bike, they leave the lower back exposed, the sleeves may be too short, and they often lack back pockets. The windproof panels do not cover the cyclist’s thermal shock zones (chest and front shoulders). For regular cycling, investing in a dedicated cycling jacket is far more comfortable.

Between €100 and €180 for a very good level of protection; between €180 and €300 for premium jackets. Under €80, jackets offer basic protection against the cold and wind, but the seams are not waterproof and the DWR coatings wear off quickly. Between €100 and €180 (Gore Wear C3, Sportful Hot Pack), you can find truly high-performance jackets with Gore-Tex Light membranes or equivalent. Above €180 (Castelli Perfetto RoS 2, Assos Trail Jacket), high-end materials offer significantly superior comfort and durability, which are justified for cyclists who train 150 days a year.