Feature

AMB tests 11 Waterproof cycling jackets on the trails

Wet weather doesn't close all trails, having the right waterproof jacket can keep you rolling! Here's a bunch we have tested on the dirt.

AMB Magazine 14.07.2022

The saying goes, there's no such thing as bad weather, just bad equipment. Or something like that. It's a little different for mountain biking. With too much rain, trail systems may be closed or at risk of serious damage.

But that doesn't mean you'll never need a quality waterproof jacket. Some trail areas will always be wet, and many climates will have storm activity. So having a quality rain jacket as part of your mountain bike wardrobe will let you stay safe. It will keep you dry, and therefore warmer, which may help keep you out of trouble in some iconic trail environments.

READ: What to pack for a big day of mountain biking

Hypothermia is a real possibility when in the great outdoors if you're getting cold and wet – or even just wet. Staying dry with a proper waterproof is a surefire way to keep yourself in a safer situation. Even just being a bit too wet, and then cold, can really impair your judgement and your bike handling, which could lead to serious injury or worse.

READ: Essential first aid for mountain biking

What jackets are we testing?

We have tested 11 waterproof jackets, you can click through to go straight to the review:

Fox Ranger 3.0 L
Ground Effect She Shell
100 Percent Hydromatic Jacket
DHaRCO men's rain jacket
Troy Lee Designs Descent Jacket
Royal Racing Quantum Jacket
Attaquer Race Rain Hardshell Jacket
Assos Equipe RS Jacket
Endura FS260-Pro Adrenaline Race Cape
Outdoor Research Helium II
Ground Effect Rivet

What are we looking for?

While some multipurpose waterproof jackets will work well enough for mountain biking, it's not a given. For this group test we looked at a number of features that make a jacket great for mountain biking, along with some that might be handy for extra uses.

Pro Tip: Trail trousers are great in the rain – we tested 13 pairs

We have only tested jackets that have waterproof and breathable materials with taped seams. Water resistant jackets have not been included.

Fit: we want the jackets to fit well when on the bike. That means coverage down the back, a shorter torso at the front, good sleeve length, reasonably fitted for the purpose and with shoulder mobility. We also expect pockets to work for a riding position. We'll test some women's specific and men's (which some brands call unisex).

Waterproof rating: This is called hydrostatic head, and is measured in millimetres. If a rating is 10000mm, or 10k, that means the material would need the pressure of a tube of 10000mm (10m) on it to push through.

Features: Sometimes less is better, but it depends how you're riding. We'll note worthwhile features like pockets, glasses wipes, key clips and the like – so you can choose what works for your use.

Adjustments: none of us are the same shape or size. So we are looking for ways to cinch up hems and collars, and lock cuffs in place.

Pack size: We don't want to ride in rain all the time – so how well does the jacket pack up? And can it pack into it's own pocket? You're more likely to bring a jacket along if it's not a hassle to do so.

Hood or no hood: This one is up to you. For those looking for a jacket for events, a hood is unlikely to be required. But if you're looking for a jacket for the park and mountain bike trips or bikepacking adventures – you'd be mad to get one without!

Breathability: Making a jacket waterproof is one thing, making it breathable when mountain biking is another! This is noted in 10k/15k etc, but it's based on how much vapour can get through in a 24hr period. Outer material will also play a role. So we have noted effective breathability based on our experience – not a lab test.

Reviews by: Georgina von Marburg, Mike Blewitt and Colin Levitch

Fox Ranger 3.0L Jacket

RRP: $349.99
From: foxracing.com.au
Size range: XS-XL, Women’s Medium tested (available in Men’s sizing as well)
Weight: 350g
Pockets: 2x
Hood: Yes
Hydrostatic Head: 10,000mm

In brief

Fox is one of the few brands making high-performance apparel for women alongside their men’s range. Too often in the industry you’ll find a brilliant offering in a men’s item, which doesn’t translate to a women’s model – or at least, not in Australia. Fox is pushing against the cliché that women don’t need exceptional gear, and their Women’s Ranger 3.0L Jacket is a great example of this.

All about the features and fit

The Ranger Water jacket is offered in several different models, and on test we have the more premium 3.0L model. The waterproof/breathability rating on this jacket is 10k/10k, similar to a lot of others on test but lower than the Ground Effect She Shell. However, numbers are one thing and real-life performance is another.

The Ranger is definitely a bulkier jacket designed for harsh conditions. Its structure is quite rigid meaning it’s not intended as a packable jacket. However, this didn’t fase me given I rarely remove my jacket in the depths of Victorian Alpine winters. The collar rises very high and is complimented with perforated fabric on the inside to absorb condensation when breathing into it. This is a detail you don’t appreciated until you use it!

All the other features are present which you would expect in a jacket at this price: adjustable drawstrings on the waist and hood, adjustable velcro wristbands, a back vent, and two large hip pockets with fully sealed zippers.

The fit is perfect for the harsh conditions the jacket is designed for. There’s ample room for layering (I could squeeze a casual hoodie underneath), with long sleeves and extra coverage on the rear.

On the bike

Given the bulky nature of this jacket, it’s best worn in peak winter conditions. And while this might concern the majority of Australians, it certainly warranted in some parts of the country (think Alpine, Canberra, and Tasmania). Putting on this jacket was like retreating into a safe, snug cocoon. The wind-blocking properties were fantastic, encouraging me to ride through conditions which would otherwise keep me indoors. The waterproofing was also adequet; while a bike-packer might want a higher rating to account for horrendous conditions over 10+ hours of riding, the Ranger guards against the typical trail downpour. The fit allowed me to wear as many layers as needed, with ample coverage from head to hip.

What can also be said for the Ranger jacket is its off-bike performance. The subtle branding and casual fit make this an excellent choice for general outwear. Repurposing a pricey jacket off the bike is always a plus!

What’s it missing?

I would have preferred a slightly high breathability rating for the price of the jacket. While the Ranger is fine for most singletrack pursuits, I did find condensation building on longer 20min+ climbs.

Given the Ranger is perfect for rainy shuttle days, an integrated goggle wipe would have also been a nice touch.

Our take

If you don’t plan to pack it away during a ride, the Ranger 3.0L jacket is an excellent choice for harsh conditions where layering and coverage is paramount. The minimalist aesthetics don’t scream “cyclist,” meaning you could wear this garment anywhere.

Ground Effect She Shell

RRP: $360.00 AUD
From: https://www.groundeffect.co.nz
Size Range: 8-18, Women’s 10 (available in Men’s sizing as well)
Weight: 330g
Pockets: 1x
Hood: Yes, zip-away
Hydrostatic Head: 23,000mm

In brief

New Zealanders are hardened experts in the wet season, so naturally their homemade cycling apparel brand, Ground Effect, provides a plethora of rain jackets. The She Shell model (more appropriately named the Stormtrooper in the equivalent men’s version) is their mid-range offering at $356RRP.

All about features and fit

The She Shell’s fit is on-point for mountain-biking, once you find your correct size. Ground Effects sizing appears to run large, so purchase a size down from the recommended fit on their sizing charts.

The fit around the waist and hips of this jacket is well tapered, with a short front for on-the-bike positioning, and a long rear for protection against mud slaps and splashes. The sleeves are adequately long to cover the arms’ extension while riding, as you’d expect from any cycling-specific jacket. But the shoulder room is what really defines the She Shell as the perfect mountain biking and bike-packing jacket; without risking a baggy look or feel, the underarms and shoulders allow for plenty of movement in those inevitable hike-a-bike situations. You won’t find the jacket creeping up or restricting movement while pushing your bike or lifting overhead.

The She Shell ingeniously stuffs into its own pocket, and an extendable strap turns the whole piece into a bum-bag. Ingenious. Alternatively, this could be slung around a shoulder or strapped to a frame/handlebar bag.

On the bike

While riding through low valleys and high hilltops, the icy autumn rain would vary from a drizzle to heavy pour. At no point was my torso cold or damp, thanks in particular to the She Shell’s long ‘WaleTail’ back and appropriately high collar, which also stows away a zip-able waterproof hood. The wrist cuffs could be slightly tighter however, lessening the chance of water or wind breaking through. A corded waist hem means you can tighten if needed, but I believe the fit (discussed later) is tapered enough not to require this.

Excessive, clammy sweat is the biggest deterrent to wearing a waterproof jacket as opposed to a more breathable, water ‘resistant’ shell. This is a very hard balance to strike: empowering the rider to take on severe conditions while not inhibiting their comfort or performance. The She Shell’s whopping 33,000g breathability rating created a rare equilibrium: pleasantly toasty and sheltered from the sleet and wind, but without building up moisture beneath the jacket as a result of sweating.

Our take

The intended market for this heavy-duty rain jacket is none other than the heavy-duty adventurer. The She Shell’s excellent waterproofing and visibility ratings make this relatively under-the-radar brand extremely competitive in the saturated market of outdoor apparel. Paired with a base-layer or two, this jacket should be rugged enough to take on any winter conditions in its Kiwi homeland, let alone Australia.

100 Percent Hydromatic

RRP: $269.99
From: FE sports
Size range: S-XL (small tested)
Weight: 330g
Pockets: Two
Hood: Yes, can be folded down and secured.
Hydrostatic Head: 10000mm

In brief

100 Percent have a huge range of cycling gear, with a clear aim at trail, all-mountain and gravity style and performance. The Hydromatic range covers all their waterproof gear, and the jacket has a performance cut with mountain bike specific features like fitted sleeves, abrastion resistant forearms, stretch fit, generous hood and a short front. As a 2.5 layer jacket it aims to walk the line between waterproofness and breathability.

All about the features and fit

Fit will always be personal, but 100 Percent have nailed it with this one. The 2.5 layer material is fully seam sealed with slight stretch for a better fit. It's waterproof and breathable rated to 10000mm, but this is a laminate that may deteriorate over time. A durable water repellancy is also on the outer material to help shed water.

The articulated arms make for a great fit.

The sleeve length is long enough for an on the bike fit, with secure cuff closures to help keep grime out. You can cinch the waist up with one-handed elastic toggles, and do the same with the hood.

The collar is high, and running the hood tucked in is comfortable in cool but dry weather, but the hood can be secured over a trail helmet when it gets truly foul. You can have the hood secured with a loop and little snap closure, but I prefer to have it accessible.

The shoulders have a generous cut for ease of movement, probably aided by the back vent at the shoulder blades for breathability. But with the Cordura reinforced forearms it really comes together as a well-fitted jacket when riding, without the feeling of flapping around.

There are two chest pockets that sit high enough to be above a waist belt, and the two way main zip means you can undo the bottom of the jacket to reach a hip pack or stash bib pockets without fuss. There's also a handy glasses/goggle wipe tethered in a pocket.

On the bike

On the bike, the Hydromatic Jacket is exceptional – and a bit of an AMB favourite. I wore a small and did find the sleeve length could be a little longer – but I probably could go to a medium. And I have long arms.

Jimmy used a Hydromatic Jacket on our WA road trip.

I really liked the reinforced forearms, given in wet weather a lot of singletrack riding has droopy wet folliage that you're constantly pushing past. The slightly dropped tail offers great coverage on your bum without a full-roadie look.

I found the breathability great, and using the zip helped regulate temperature along with the back vent. I was happy to not have pit zips as they add a lot of bulk and cost, and the front to rear venting was spot on.

What's it missing?

It's difficult to be left wanting much more on this jacket. But, I would happily trade the two chest pockets for one napoleon pocket for a slightly more fitted torso – but that's personal preference. On trail rides the two pockets are ideal for hand warming. Also, sleeves a tiny bit longer would also be good, but again that's a personal fit for me.

Our take

This is an incredible jacket, and one that hits a great price point as well. It suits park rats, trail riders and the endurance riding crowd, thanks to an excellent balance of features, fit, materials and price.

DHaRCO Men's Rain Jacket

RRP: $265
From: DHaRCO.com.au
Size range: S-XXL, small tested
Weight: 354g
Pockets: Two
Hood: Yes, can be rolled to collar
Hydrostatic head: 8000mm

In brief

DHaRCO's rain jacket is a casual-styled fully seam-sealed waterproof jacket, with a hydrostatic head of 8000mm and a breathability rating of 5000mm. The cut is pretty long, and really aimed at moving from on the bike to off it without looking like a cycling geek. This is the men's model, but DHaRCO also sell a women's fit waterproof jacket with all the same features and materials.

All about the features and fit

The material has a soft matte finish, which feels strange to mention except that when you wear it it doesn't feel like pulling a big waterproof jacket on. It's an incredibly comfortable jacket, so ideal to use for windproofing as well as a waterproof jacket.

The material has some stretch which allows for a dynamic fit, especially around the shoulders. The cuffs have a velcro closure but on my lanky arms I found them too short for use in proper foul weather.

Sleeve length is really personal, based on fit on you, and your fit on the bike.

The hood is generous and can fit over a trail helmet, there's a peak that can be shaped to keep rain from dripping down your face. The collar could be a little higher, but there's soft backing for comfort behind the zip.

The pockets are at the lower hem, with a soft lining that's ideal to warm your hands a little. The hem is pretty horizontal, so it's quite long at the front when on the bike, but ideal when off the bike. As the pockets are right down low, it does mean any waist strap will cover them.

On the bike

This is a comfortable jacket when riding, but the longer front means it does end up bunching up a litle in the front when riding. With the pockets quite low and a lot of material on the front, you're best to not store anything in them on the bike.

The material does wet out a little after a couple of washes in persistant rain, but still keeps you drier than going without. The hood works well but when it's cold and wet, having a higher collar would be great. Using a buff or a warm top underneath would be the answer, and would be a versatile solution. The nape around the neck to the hood could use some tweaks as with the hood tightened up, it does lift the shoulders up. The drawcord and length means you cn cinch it down over your bum really well.

With the hood down the fit and function is much better, with easy movement and a comfortable fit, plus the soft material doesn't sound like you're wearing a plastic bag.

The breathability is quite good, but with no extra venting save for the zip, if it's warm and you're working, you'll notice the breathability isn't as high as some other jackets.

What's it missing?

As a casual rain jaket for some use on and off the bike – not much! As a performance rain jacket I think it needs the cut to be considered. Add a back vent and address the front length, pocket location and potentially sleeve length and it would be a very versatile jacket for a bunch of mountain bikers. Note this is based on my fit and sizing.

Our Take

As is, The DHaRCO jacket suits having on hand for a bike park trip or regular cycling and travel jacket, more than using for a serious trip into the mountains where your waterproof jacket needs to function as a primary piece of safety equipment.

Troy Lee Designs Descent Jacket

RRP: $349.95
From: Lusty Industries
Size range: S-XXL (Medium tested)
Weight: 409g
Pockets: Two
Hood: Yes, can fold down.
Hydrostatic head: 10000mm

In brief

The Troy Lee Designs Descent Jacket is a true 3-layer jacket. That means it has the outer material, the waterproof and breathable membrane, and then a fine mesh on the inside – all bonded together. This is the OG style of membrane based waterproof jackets, but they have slimmed down considerably since you last pulled on a GoreTex jacket from the 90s.

It means when you pull the Descent Jacket on, you have the feeling of pulling on a hardwearing suit of waterproof armour. That won't suit everyone, but for anyone about to battle the elements, it's the perfect feeling.

The material has a 10k hydrostatic head and breathability rating, but it's true design is being stormproof more than ultrabreathable climbing big hills. While it has some stretch, it's a heavier weight construction than some, and probably your best mate for alpine trips and wet days in the bike park or in the real mountains.

All about the features and fit

I wore a medium and could probably opt for a small. The sleeve length and torso length were spot on for the size, as was mobility. The sleeves are generous, so they'll fit bike park arms, they aren't designed for a painted on fit on roadie guns.

Because I'm fussy, I would still have appreciated a velrco cuff closure, not just the elastic. The jacket seems built for foul conditions, and it would really add to sealing it all up.

The hood is fantastic. It can zip up with a high collar, and really close in around a trail helmet with room for goggles or sunglasses. The toggles are easy to use with gloves – and you can fold the hood with a tie down for storage if needed.

The hood has a formed peak, so without a helmet it won't leave water running down your face. The cut allows head movement on the bike, without impacting the fit around your shoulders.

On that – I had plenty of room to move, and even in a small I would have as well – it's cut to be ridden in. The pockets are low on the jacket, with zips that pull down. Easy to open with gloves, but some prefer zips that 'fall' closed.

There's a tethered pull to cinch up the lower hem, it's easy to get to to keep it tightly held down. The main zip is single ended so you can't unzip from the bottom for easy pocket or hip pack access.

On the bike

As said above, zipping this jacket up is like suiting up to battle. Sure it's one of the heaviest on test, but it's also made to last the distance, and keep the elements out.

The material sits and stays when riding, with minimal flap or ballooning, which means it isn't distracting if you're focused on the trail. I really like that using the hood doesn't impede the function of the jacket, allowing a good range of movement while keeping you drier. The 4-way stretch plays a role in the functional fit and comfort.

This isn't a form fit jacket for endurance cyclists, so it can bunch up a little at the front when riding. But cinching the whole thing down helps alleviate this.

The breathability is ok, on longer climbs it did get warm, but the main zip is easy enough to open to keep some airflow.

What's it missing?

A back vent could be a nice addition for venting, but I imagine a shuttle will be used for riders looking at this jacket. I do think an additional cuff closure and dual ended zip would be a nice addition to an already excellent jacket.

Our Take

If you're after a jacket for big days on the mountain that will last the distance – this is well worth a look. This would be an ideal jacket for a trip to Maydena Bike Park, or any gravity location or somewhere it will be jacket weather all day, it's burly enough with all the features you'll want to get out, and stay out, in foul conditions.

Royal Racing Quantum Jacket

RRP: $200.95
From: Echelon Sports
Size range: S-XXL
Weight: 112g
Pockets: One
Hood: Yes, with tie down
Hydrostatic head: Not available

In brief

The Quantum Jacket is Royal Racing's jacket for those who want to stash something for a change in the weather. it's still seam sealed and waterproof and breathable – but it's also barely over 100g, and easily packable. Their Storm Jacket is the answer for anyone looking for a shell that will repel whatever a horrible day will throw at them.

All about the features and fit

As you'd expect, it's a very light fitting jacket, relying on elastic cuffs and hood seam, along with the lower hem. It's pretty incredible that the superlight material is seamsealed, meaning water cannot come in via the seams. The durable water repellancy will help water roll off – but this jacket really isn't aimed at use for long days in heavy rain – Royal Racing have other jackets for that.

The cut is basic but far from being too roomy. There's no stretch so it's perfect for the type of jacket it is. The collar is tall but the hood would go under a helmet if you really need your head covered.

There's a single Napoleon pocket on the left, which is ideal for a light jacket. The Quantum jacket can also pack away into this zipped pocket for easy storage in a hip pack, backpack – or maybe even frame storage or stash bibs pocket.

The double ended zip means it's easy to still access a hip pack, stash pockets or jersey pockets without undoing the jacket from the top. This is a nice feature on a light weight jacket.

On the bike

It's a light jacket but doesn't come with a roadie fit and it has a hood, so it is not like pulling on any of the other jackets on test. It's quite breathable, but as a single layer may quickly feel clammy against bare (wet) skin, more in humid conditions than cooler ones.

As a light material it does flap around a little, but again for the type of jacket it is I think it's ttyally acceptable. While the hood is an under the helmet fit, it has a high collar so in the type of weather you'll pull this jacket on, you'll quickly appreciate the height of the collar around the chin, to really block out wind and rain.

The front is pretty long, even in a small, so I turned the bottom over a little otherwise it bunched up a bit while on the bike. Overall I really liked the complete coverage as a jacket that is essentially an emergency jacket. I think you'd be crazy to head out on any long ride away from shelter without something like this, if you were in an area where inclement weather was the norm.

This jacket easily shrugged off the light showers it was used in, and was breathable in the same conditions, mostly under 15 degrees in the test period. Best of all, it was easy to stow when not in use.

What's it missing?

For this type of jacket – not much. Maybe a little more reflective trim, and potentially a micro cinch at the bottom hem for a little more customising of the fit. $200 is a bit more for the jacket compared to some in this test that have lots more features.

Our Take

This type of jacket is aimed at having with you, and if you have it, you'll probably pull it on more often – be that on the bike or at the apres. And in this sense it is really versatile and likely to be an item you reach for more often than you'd expect – making it a smart invesment. If you have big rides planned in the high alpine, you'd be crazy to not have a jacket like this in your kit, even on a bluebird day. It packs away and has excellent coverage if conditions change, or if you just stay out longer post-ride.

Attaquer Race Rain Hardshell Jacket

RRP: $349.95
From: Attaquer
Size range: XS-XXL – medium tested
Weight: 337g
Pockets: One Napoleon pocket
Hood: No
Hydrostatic head: 20000mm

In brief

Attaquer are best known for the road and gravel cycling gear, but with a bunch of quality foul weather clothing items in the range, looking at their jackets makes sense. The Race Rain Hardshell jacket is likely to suit someone who doesn't really want a hood. So, that is probably a rider focused on performance in cross-country and marathon events, who needs a jacket for wet training rides, cold starts and wet race days. And road and gravel riders.

The material quality is second to none with 4-way stretch and a hydrophobic outer treatment and hydrophilic inner treatment. That means, it pulls water from the inside, and repels it on the outside.

All about the features and fit

This is a fitted jacket, and available in the widest size range on test. At about 178cm and 73kg I found a medium was a great fit, with the sleeve length nailed. The sleeves are tapered, offering great fit around the forearm without any flapping. The cuffs have elastic but also a soft gusset for comfort and to keep wind out.

There's an elastic drawcord in the hem, plus a rubber gripper around the slightly dropped tail so it won't ride up. The two way zip will keep access to jersey pockets easy, or stash bibs under your trail gear.

The collar is higher at the back than the front, to keep drips out of your neck. In truly cold weather a buff or half buff (a buff cut in half…) will add some extra comfort to snuggle into.

There's some ventilation holes in the armpits, and a back vent across the height of the shoulder blades. There is also a zip opening on the right side opposite the Napoleon pocket. It acts as a good vent, and will let air come in, around your torso and through the back vent.

The Napoleon pocket is sized for essentials only, and suits the fit of the jacket. It's easy to use when riding and doesn't impact the fit of the jacket.

On the bike

The performance fit of the Attaquer Race Hardshell is immediately noticeable, but so is the overall heavy duty feel. While it is essentially a 'roadie' jacket, it's not flimsy, and with an incredible 20k hydrostatic head, it's stormproof. In a way, it's an XC variant of the Troy Lee Designs Descent jacket.

At the rear of the jacket, the hem drops with a rubberised gripper. It's easy to pull it down over your bum for some extra coverage. With a cinch cord at the bottom of the zip, you can really make the low hem super snug.

The sleeve length was spot on for me, and the fitted arms mean there's no flapping, but a great cut over the shoulders and 4-way stretch meant there was no restriction of movement, which meant riding wide bars on a mountain bike wasn't an issue with a jacket from the dropbar crowd.

I did appreciate the little venting pocket on climbs, but found the jacket was breathing pretty well anyway – although I mostly rode in under 16 degrees in this jacket. A humid summer storm may be a different story.

One of the best things about this jacket is the fit. Like the 100 Percent jacket it fits well and can be ventilated easily, so pulling it on isn't a hinderance to how you're going to ride, as it has a dynamic fit.

What's it missing?

A hood, obviously. But that's already known. Using a hood on a waterproof riding jacket tends to be rare for me, when I'm actually riding. They're endlessly useful when stopped, or meandering around. But for a jacket that's being used for an event, or for endurance training, it's kind of spot on. I would have still liked a small velcro closure on the cuff. The gusset is nice, and it's comfortable. But I think some may prefer being able to cinch it up. You can stuff the jacket into the mesh back vent lining if needed, but it doesn't go to a small packsize thanks to the material. This is a jacket to put on, and keep on, like most full-noise waterproofs.

Our Take

For the commited endurance mountain bike who needs to get out in all conditions and ride hard, this is hard to look past. It vents well, has a strong construction with a dynamic, fitted cut and material and is ideal to put on and keep on for a long ride in wet weather.

Those looking for a jacket for park riding or trail rides may be best looking elsewhere, but for those who want a highly functional and robust jacket without a hood – this comes highly recommended.

Assos Equipe RS Rain Jacket Targa

RRP: $549.95
From: Assos
Size range: XS-XL (medium tested)
Weight: 167g
Pockets: No
Hood: No
Hydrostatic Head: 10000mm

In brief

Assos are known for their high end road cycling gear, with no compromises on fit, comfort or materials. As such their Equipe RS Rain Jacket Targa likely won't suit everyone reading this, as like the Attaquer shell and the one from Endura, it's form fit and without a hood. But boy, it does it well.

All about the features and fit

Fit is king for Assos, although materials are also king for Assos. The Schloss Tex material has been developed with pro riders, and it's stretchy, superlight, hydrophobic (it pulls water away from the skin) and it's a 3-way material with a proper waterproof and breathable membrane between the outer and inner layer. The waterproof rating is a 10k hydrostatic head, with a whopping 27k breathability rating. Wow!

The fit is #fullroadie, with a longer tail, long fitted arms, shorter front and zero pockets. The neck is extended at the back but there are no toggles to cinch anything up. The fit is reliant on the cut, and the features of the materials. And they nail it.

The hem is grippy and elasticated, and there is a full length reflective black strip (yes, black AND reflective) down the spine. Seams are seam sealed as you'd expect.

The cuffs have an inner cutout of elastic material, allowing a sealed off fit, and a cut that pushes down to the back of your hand for complete coverage. It's a really fitted sleeve, with zero flapping, and no chance of wind blowing up it to inflate your jacket like a balloon on descents.

The zip is dual ended and chunky, with a tab for comfort up top and to pull from at the base. This helps actually using the jacket with gloves on, or cold, wet or muddy hands. Kudos.

There's no fuss on this jacket, just great design and materials. It fits like a second skin, but with enough room for a winter layer or two.

On the bike

Assos state the Equipe RS Rain Jacket has their aerodynamic race fit and they aren't lying. With the rustle free fabric, you pull it on. zip it up and it's just like you're wearing a winter jersey.

I tested this jacket on a 6 hour ride in drizzle on mud and rocks on a gravel ride. Sure, not a mountain bike ride, but we climbed at a solid tempo, waded through flowing creeks, did steep climbs and rocky descents, and got stared at in country towns.

The fit on this jacket really is second to none. It moved with me as it needed to, and didn't leave any part of me uncovered. I wore a thin long sleeve thermal underneath, and regulated my warmth in the 11-15 degree drizzle with the zip.

Rain rolled off the material and I didn't get clammy inside, even on the opening climb which was the warmest part of the ride. I certainly liked the sleeve length and tapered fit – this jacket would excel as a marathon or stage race race jacket – as long as you didn't need something with a hood as mandatory gear.

Clearly it is designed as a road jacket, but I found it exceptional off road. The chunky zip didn't falter even with muddy grit through it, it was easy to grab (either end) with gloves and cold hands.

What's it missing?

A hood and pockets, but neither bothered me. The hood is something you either want on your cycling waterproof jacket or you don't. A small pocket could be useful, but for anything so small you'd likely have it somewhere else. The dual ended zip means access to you jersey pockets won't be an issue.

Our Take

Partnered with a jersey, or even an undershirt and cargo bibs, this jacket will suit a lot of riders who don't need the fuss of a hood. I used a buff and a cycling cap on my long test ride when it was raining harder, and this made for a manageable system for comfort, warmth, and keeping rain off my face.

At about $550 this is substantially more expensive than the other jackets on test. But as a jacket for exceptional fit and performance on the cross-country, gravel, road and marathon spectrum – it's second to none. Good winter and wet weather gear is an investment that lasts more than a season. And I think the Assos Equipe RS Rain Jacket Targa is a worthwhile investment.

Endura FS260-PRO Adrenaline Race Cape II

RRP: $119.95
From: Endura
Size range: XS-XXL
Weight: 116g
Pockets: No
Hood: No
Hydrostatic Head: 15000mm

In brief

The Endura FS260-PRO Adrenaline Race Cape II is another jacket on test with a clear road/xc slant. It's got long, fitted sleeves with sealed cuffs, a long tail, short front and no hood. It's crazily light, and comes with it's own stuff suck.

All about the features and fit

The magic here is the ExoShell20ST fabric. It's super light, stretchy, and waterproof. Infact, I'm surprised it can even handle the seam sealing process – some light materials just aren't strong enough. This has an incredible 15K hydrostatic head, with 20K breathability.

The result is a jacket that is very light to put on, and super compact to store (helped by the nifty stuff sack). I think this is a bog bonus for any light jacket, as it keeps it in an easy to grab package, one that can sit in the bottom of a pack, in a frame bag, or even in your car if you need it at the trail head.

Given it's designed to be quite fitted, and has stretch, it's not a flappy jacket as long as you get the sizing right. With a lighter weight material than say, the Assos jacket, it does still move around a little when descending. But not much. The sleeves are tapered with a precise, long cuff. It means the jacket won't ride up, and doesn't have air coming in.

The lower hem is cut long for the tail, with an elasticated hem and rubber gripper strip that helps keep it in place. If you're riding in a cross-country position or on a gravel bike, then you will really appreciate this cut. Additionally, the front is shorter, so it doesn't bunch up when getting low.

The neck has a bit more height at the back, and has a comfortable mesh liner for when it's zipped up.

On the bike

While I tested this jacket in sub 15 degrees on all rides, I was blown away by the breathability. Sure, it's quite light, but it really does let you keep it pretty well zipped up to keep rain or spray out. It's that latter point that is useful, as veen if it's not raining, the Endura jacket can help just keep standing water off you.

The fit is a little roomier than the Assos jacket, and it's not as burly as the Attaquer jacket – but I think that low weight means it's a great stowable option, but it does mean it's not a jacket I'd want to be scraping through rocks and scrub with.

Even on a trail bike I found the fit great. Sure a long bum can look daggy off the bike, but there's no time that I wish I had more water or muddy spray hitting me.

I think this is another great option for riders who ride XC, some trail, gravel and road. It's not a full off-road spec jacket as I think the material is a little light for heavy use on tight singletrack or in abrasive environments. But it's an excellent shell to pull on if weight, breathability and a small pack size are essential.

What's it missing?

Probably just a little bit of heft and a hood for an all-round mountain bike waterproof jacket. But that's ok, Endura have the Singletrack II Jacket for that!

Our Take

The Race Cape suits its purpose, and it's hard to look past as a jacket for anyone taking marathon races, stage races or training for XC seriously, especially at such a great value price point. If you need something more rough and tumble, try the Attaquer option. Need more room for layers? Try the Ground Effect Rivet.

Outdoor Research Helium II

RRP: $259.95
From: Outdoor Research Store Finder
Size range: XS-XXL
Weight: 187g
Pockets: One Napoleon pocket
Hood: Yes
Hydrostatic Head: 15000mm

In brief

I bought the Outdoor Research Helium II jacket ahead of The Pioneer mountain bike event in 2018. Having a waterproof, seam sealed jacket with a hood was part of the mandatory gear list. While it cost over $200, and we needed to get two (one for my wife as well, who was my team mate), I knew having a jacket like this on hand would be good not just in New Zealand's Southern Alps, but home in south east Queensland as well. It's light, packs into a stash pocket, is seam sealed and has a versatile fit.

All about the features and fit

I came across this jacket after searching for light, waterproof jackets with hoods. It came up on lots of bikepacking forums, so I figured it was worth looking at. It has a 15K hydrostatic head about 20K breathability.

While it's not designed for bike riding, it has a great mix of features. The hood is a full hood that can go over a helmet, but is best as a tall collar, or a hood without a helmet on.

The sleeve length is ok on the bike (for me) but only has a light elastic cuff. The fit is athletic, but it's not a material with flex. The 2.5-layer 30D Pertex® Shield+ DS is still an incredible material, but it's not a burly 3-layer material like on some of the jackets on test. I have used this on a multiday hiking trip in Tasmania, with a loaded pack and anything from snow to wind driven rain. It really wasn't quite the jacket for this – but it worked and survived.

There's a small Napoleon pocket for essentials, and a drawcord on the hem, which helps keep the bum down. It can be a little long in the front on the bike, but I found it's acceptable, given there's no pockets there for extra fabric to bunch up.

On the bike

As mentioned above, the Outdoor Research Helium II isn't designed as a mountain bike jacket. But it has been the jacket I grab for a trip away for nearly four years. It doesn't scream bike geek, and can just as easily be used to stay warm on a chilly descent as to fend off a snow storm. I've used it for walking the dog, multiday hikes, to stop wind on alpine descents and for trail rides at Derby.

Compared to something like the Assos RS Equipe, Attaquer Hard Shell, Endura Race Cape or 100 Percent Hydromatic, the sleeves aren't as fitted and the cuff lacks the close fit and ability to keep wind and water out. But, that makes it easy to put on and off – which is also useful.

The breathability is really good, but I find I do need to vent with the main zip on longer climbs. As it's not designed specifically for riding, there is no extra venting to help with the heat created from the work rate of riding. That said, it's designed for active use, so it is still really good.

I like that it has a hood, as it means it's a full-service waterproof. And that's why it's a jacket I'll reach for when I'm travelling, as I know it can work on the bike, on a hike, or on the main street. That versatility is worth a lot – including fit that is pretty good for mountain biking, if not made for it.

What's it missing?

I really like this jacket, which is why I bought it. It can be difficult to objectively review products you have already bought – as you're over the line with it already. With some minor changes to the cut, and a more secure cuff closure, this jacket would be even better. It's still the one I will reach for when travelling, due to the pack size and versatility.

Our Take

For active people, you will get a lot of use out of the Outdoor Research Helium II. If you want a dedicated mountain bike waterproof then figure out whether a slim fit, hoodless design is for you, or something with a hood and a little more room for trail gear and cold weather clothing – there are lots of options in this review feature.

Ground Effect Rivet

RRP: $298.55 (plus shipping)
From: Ground Effect
Size range: S-XL (medium tested)
Weight: 240g
Pockets: One Napoleon pocket
Hood: No
Hydrostatic Head: 23000mm

In brief

The Rivet is New Zealand based Ground Effect's lightweight wind and waterproof packable rain jacket. It's made using what Ground Effect calls Hydrofoil, which is a three-layer laminated fabric with a Pertex Shield Plus membrane. Pertex is one of many waterproof textile manufacturers and provides fabrics to the likes of Patagonia, The North Face, Marmot and Outdoor Research, so Ground Effect is in good company.

All about the features and fit

The Hydrofoil fabric is specifically designed for high-intensity activities and puts a premium on breathability with a claimed 33K moisture transfer rating and 23k waterproofing. Compared to other jackets on this test the specs are impressive. All of the seams are sealed and so is the zipper to prevent any leaks — a full-length placket also backs the zipper.

Hidden inside each cuff are thumb loops to prevent them from creeping up, and the elastic that runs the circumference does prevent water ingress. The WhaleTail dropped lower hem prevents mud from ending up where the sun don't shine, and the raised 7cm collar keeps errant droplets from sneaking in through the top.

There is only one pocket on the chest that's plenty large enough for a modern smartphone, with a waterproof zip keeping the contents dry as a bone. Tipping our scales a 240g, the jacket is lacking its own stuff sack, but packs down plenty small enough to fit comfortably into a jersey pocket or hip pack.

For my 177cm frame with a relatively average build (100cm chest) the size medium fits suitably on and off the bike, although the cut feels a bit boxy. There is some stretch built into the fabric, which helps the jacket to move with you and prevents binding and pinching.

I think Ground Effect should cut the jacket slimmer and utilise this stretch as the coat gets flappy when your pace increases. That said, the baggier fit allows room for layers underneath.

On the bike

With the rain southeast Queensland has experience this year the Rivet Jacket has accompanied me on just about every ride whether that be a singletrack session, groad adventure or road ride. The Hydrofoil fabric works as advertised keeping the rain well and truly on the outside, but what's impressed me most is the way the jacket manages moisture within.

Like all three-layer fabrics, there will come a point when the durable water repellency (DWR) outer waves the white flag, and the face fabric will wet out. With the waterproof membrane laminated underneath the exterior fabric, when it becomes wet, the moisture blocks the perforations in the membrane, causing many jackets to turn into a lukewarm sauna.

I have been on many a ride in the past few months where the Rivet has wet out; however, the Hydrofoil fabric still maintains an extraordinary of level moisture transfer. For a sport where you're often working hard, this is what you need to make a fully waterproof jacket useful.

I like the stretch fit and never found my movement restricted. But I would prefer a more fitted cut to take advantage of that. As a jacket without a hood the Rivet is likely more appealing to those spending more hours on the bike under their own steam, than a rider in a gravity park, hence an update to the cut would be great to see.

What's it missing?

A hood, but that's fine. It suits the intended use, although an updated slimmer fit would be good.

Our Take

As a bike specific waterproof the Ground Effect Rivet does a great job. The jacket is made in New Zealand, and the build quality is at or above the level of any premium brand, but doesn’t come with the heavy price tag. The design is minimalist and packs down to almost nothing serving as an ideal layer to get you through a ride when the weather turns south.

AMB tests 11 Waterproof cycling jackets on the trails

What jackets are we testing?

What are we looking for?

Fox Ranger 3.0L Jacket

In brief

All about the features and fit

On the bike

What’s it missing?

Our take

Ground Effect She Shell

In brief

All about features and fit

On the bike

Our take

100 Percent Hydromatic

In brief

All about the features and fit

On the bike

What's it missing?

Our take

DHaRCO Men's Rain Jacket

In brief

All about the features and fit

On the bike

What's it missing?

Our Take

Troy Lee Designs Descent Jacket

In brief

All about the features and fit

On the bike

What's it missing?

Our Take

Royal Racing Quantum Jacket

In brief

All about the features and fit

On the bike

What's it missing?

Our Take

Attaquer Race Rain Hardshell Jacket

In brief

All about the features and fit

On the bike

What's it missing?

Our Take

Assos Equipe RS Rain Jacket Targa

In brief

All about the features and fit

On the bike

What's it missing?

Our Take

Endura FS260-PRO Adrenaline Race Cape II

In brief

All about the features and fit

On the bike

What's it missing?

Our Take

Outdoor Research Helium II

In brief

All about the features and fit

On the bike

What's it missing?

Our Take

Ground Effect Rivet

In brief

All about the features and fit

On the bike

What's it missing?

Our Take

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