Encove Blog

There are hundreds of breathable cycling jackets available in the cycling wear market today, all of them boasting unique qualities and superiority over all over cycling jackets. So knowing which one to spend your money on can be quite a daunting task, not to mention time consuming. This article is designed to help you to understand your needs and the differences between the types of breathable cycling jackets available, to help you to make an informed decision.

Understand your needs:

• What sort of cycling do you intend on doing? Road cycling will require tighter fitted cycling wear which will flap less in the wind, whereas a cross country or a freerider may find a looser fit is better suited to their needs as it allows for layering of clothes underneath and offers more movement and greater comfort. Tighter fitted cycling jackets offer more breathability.

• What weathers are you expecting to be cycling in?

• Cold Temperatures require: High collars, long backs and sleeves and drawstrings.

• Warm Temperatures require: Adjustable sleeves and extra zips or ‘pit zips’.

• Wet Climate’s require: A hem to cover your bum and stop wheel spray and a detachable hood.

If you purchase a cycling jacket with any of the above features your overall cycling speed will be reduced, as they provide additional weight and more wind hindrance. Some features such as ‘pit zips’ will enhance breathability.

• Do you require pockets?

• Need to take your cycling jacket off without removing your helmet first? Ensure your cycling jacket has front zips, this will improve breathability. Remember any additional weight will make you work harder and sweat more reducing overall breathability of the cycling jacket.

There are many different types of breathable cycling wear available, these can be split into 3 main categories: 1. Gore-Tex (PTFE/PU): has 2 layers, the PTFE layer (Poly-tetra-fluoro-ethylene or Teflon) which is microporous, it is highly hydrophobic (water repellent) but allows for water vapour (in this case a body moisture molecule) to pass through it. The second, PU (polyurethane) layer on the inside protects the PTFE layer from contamination whilst still allowing moisture to escape.

2. E-Vent (PTFE only): has only the PTFE layer, chemical treatment offers protection from contamination instead of the PU layer. These are often heavier cycling jackets and are typically a little more pricey. 3. Paramo: has 2 layers of fabric impregnated with Nikwax TX Direct treatment. Cycling wear made from Paramo is highly breathable.

With this information in mind, an idea formed of the features you require from your jacket and an understanding of the fabric you would like your cycling jacket to be made from, your search should now be considerably shorter and so, a lot more fun for you!