The Showers Pass Touring Jacket is one of the most versatile pieces of cycling clothing I own. Not only is it one of the best rain jackets you can buy, but it also doubles as a shell for winter biking as well. This jacket has many great features, but I will only be able to cover a few of them here.
Showers Pass Tour Jacket
The first thing you will notice about this jacket is that it has a roomy cut that allows you to layer your clothing (especially helpful in the winter). The ventilation options on this jacket are incredible. It has two 12-inch two-way pit zips, a full-length back vent for flow thru ventilation, cinch-cords at the hems and highly adjustable cuffs. The 3M reflective taping on the arms and back is superb. This jacket also has a drop-down tail for when the rain just won’t stop and a light loop on the rear vent so you can attach a flasher. The zippered chest pocket has an audio port so you can keep you iPhone dry on the worst of days, yet still listen to your tunes. All of the exposed zippers are waterproof and I’ve never had them fail. The rear pocket is large enough to carry just about anything you need.
This is not a lightweight jacket you can store in your back pocket for emergencies. If you wear this during the summer you better hope the rain doesn’t stop until you reach your destination (unless you have panniers to store the jacket in). If the sun comes out while you are wearing this jacket it is going to get very uncomfortable within just a few minutes.
My favorite use for this jacket is as a winter shell when the temperature drops below 35 degrees. Because of its generous cut you can layer your clothing and still have room to breathe. I start with a simple Under Armour compression shirt, then, as the temperature drops, add a lightweight fleece jacket. When the temps are in the single digits I wear an Under Armour compression shirt and a heavier fleece jacket (one made for snow skiers) and finally the Showers Pass Touring Jacket. Because of the large rear vent I’ve never had a problem with condensation with this jacket.
The Showers Pass Tour Jacket is available in three colors: Black, Electric Blue and Yelling Yellow. Why on earth anyone would wear a black rain jacket is beyond my ability to comprehend. I know the black jacket does a great job of hiding dirt, but it also makes you nearly invisible to traffic (even with the reflective strips). Riding in Ninja Mode might appeal to some, but I think it is stupid. Buy the Yelling Yellow jacket if you value your life.
The list price on this jacket is $150 and I think it is worth every cent. Unfortunately, the hood for this jacket is sold separately ($25 and it only comes in black). I don’t need the hood in the winter because I wear a balaclava under my helmet, but it is well-made and really comes in handy in the rain.
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