When choosing a winter cycling jacket, ensure it has the correct cut, waterproof and breathable material, and long sleeves and back. Consider vents, collar height, and zipper quality, and decide on insulation based on personal preference. Look for reflective features and functional pockets.
A cycling jacket is cut differently than other types of jackets, and is even different from other sports jackets. When choosing the best winter cycling jacket, make sure you choose the right cut – the back of the jacket should extend below the lower back and buttocks as riders lean forward and a normal jacket will leave the back low exposed. In addition to the correct cut, a good winter cycling jacket will be waterproof and breathable; some jackets are insulated but most are not to allow the rider to remove the less bulky jacket and easily stow it away if needed.
The fit of your winter cycling jacket is vitally important for comfort and performance. The sleeves must be long enough so that they do not ride up when the rider leans forward to grab the handlebars, and the back of the jacket must extend below the hips and even to the buttocks. Choose a winter cycling jacket that features vents or zippered openings that can be closed during cold weather and opened during warmer temperatures or during intense physical activity. The collar of the jacket should be high enough to fit snugly around the neck and chin, and the zipper on the front of the jacket should be of high quality and possibly covered with material to prevent wind from passing through the jacket. zipper.
The decision to buy a winter cycling jacket that is thick or insulated, or whether to buy a thinner one is up to the rider. Most winter cycling jacket models are thicker than regular cycling jackets, but still thin enough that they can be rolled up or packed tightly and stored in a cycling jersey if the weather warms up. Insulation can be achieved by wearing several layers under the jacket. It may be necessary to choose a jacket that is larger than the size you would wear for a spring riding jacket, due to the layers you can wear underneath.
Consider other features that will make the jacket functional. Some models of winter cycling jackets feature reflective piping or designs that will light up when a car’s headlights fall on them. Such reflective material is a great safety feature built into many cycling jackets. Pockets should be large enough to fit a gloved hand inside, and a pocket on the back of the jacket with a built-in zipper will work well for storing larger items, such as an extra layer or a few types of groceries.
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