Have you ever bought a cheap polyester cycling jacket from one of the “big box” sporting goods store? The first time you wore did you feel like you were wearing a plastic garbage bag? Those cheap jackets are usually not very breathable and they are often so loose-fitting that they create extra drag when cycling. If you are looking for a well-made jacket for cycling, running or cross-country skiing I would suggest you take a look at the Pearl Izumi Men’s Elite Barrier Jacket.
Pearl Izumi Men’s Elite Barrier Jacket
The Pearl Izumi Men’s Elite Barrier Jacket is a lightweight, breathable jacket that is both water and wind resistant. Though it will never take the place of “full-time” rain jacket like the Showers Pass Touring Jacket, it will keep you dry if you get caught out in the rain. This 100% polyester jacket is not insulated—its main purpose is to block the wind. I like to wear it over an insulated long-sleeve jersey when the temperature is in the low 50’s.
Zipper Garage On The Pearl Izumi Elite Barrier Jacket
My favorite feature on this jacket are the Direct-Vent panels—they allow moisture to escape from under your arm pits and this keeps the inside of the jacket very dry. There is also a full-length internal draft flap (with zipper garage) to keep the heat in—or you can unzip it a bit to allow some extra air in. This jacket also has contoured sleeves with elasticized hem and cuffs.
Back Pocket On The Pearl Izumi Elite Barrier Jacket
This jacket only has one pocket—it is on the back of the jacket and is rather small. There is enough room to store your cell phone, keys and several gel packs, but it is not very easy to get into. This pocket closes with a strip of Velcro. There are reflective elements on both the front and back of this jacket to make it easier for cars to see you in low-light situations.
This jacket is available in five sizes (S, M, L, XL, and XXL) and appears to be true to size, though it does have a semi-form fit. The Elite Barrier Jacket comes in several colors, including Black, White, True Blue, True Red, Safety Orange, and Screaming Yellow.
The Pearl Izumi Men’s Elite Barrier Jacket has a suggested retail price of $90. If your local bike shop does not have this jacket in stock you can easily find it listed at many online retailers, such as Amazon.com, L.L.Bean, Bike Nashbar. This jacket is machine washable (but the manufacturer recommend to you avoid the use of fabric softeners).
loren24250
November 14, 2012 at 8:17 AM
I note your comment about the small pocket — on the back of the jacket. I have exactly two cycling jackets with pockets on the front, one on the left side of my chest, just right for a cell phone and in the right location for a right-handed person. (Aren’t most people right-handed?) The other has a small pocket on the right side of the chest, and it’s so small that it’s awkward to fit keys or a phone into it. I really don’t get this idea that every pocket has to be placed as inconveniently as possible. Sure, if I’m riding in the Tour de France, I want maximum speed and minimum wind resistance. But for recreational riding, what’s wrong with cycling clothing that’s actually comfortable and practical? Your thoughts please.
All Seasons Cyclist
November 14, 2012 at 12:57 PM
I need pockets I can get into while riding — I hate to have to pull off the road just to get a gel or bar. you might want to look at the Pearl Izumi Elite Softshell Jacket (reviewed at: http://wp.me/p1sFbY-Bl)
the drunken cyclist
November 14, 2012 at 2:53 PM
Pearl also sells stuff directly from their site: pearlizumi.com I am a big fan of their gear–have been since I managed a bike shop years ago….
All Seasons Cyclist
November 14, 2012 at 3:01 PM
They are my favorite manufacturer of cycling clothing. It is very rare to find a better product than what they offer.
sedge808
November 14, 2012 at 7:22 PM
so vibrant.
All Seasons Cyclist
November 14, 2012 at 9:35 PM
It is probably the nicest looking cycling jacket I own — and bright enough to keep a car from hitting me (I hope).
sedge808
November 15, 2012 at 7:18 PM
Yep. I’m sure they would see U.
G.
Shonnie
November 14, 2012 at 10:14 PM
I love their stuff. Gonna have check this out. 🙂
All Seasons Cyclist
November 15, 2012 at 12:00 AM
It is definitely a great jacket and worth your consideration!
isaac976
November 15, 2012 at 10:55 PM
Anything with the word Elite.. I am sure it will be heavy priced.. haha .. am using their TriFly iV shoes and loving em.
All Seasons Cyclist
November 15, 2012 at 11:07 PM
You are so correct! “Elite” costs more than “Select” and if it says “Pro” you had better break out the American Express card fast.
isaac976
November 16, 2012 at 12:53 AM
break out is understatement.. more like melted .. haha .. BlackFriday is next week.. u looking for any bargains?
All Seasons Cyclist
November 16, 2012 at 9:41 AM
Black Friday is spent on my bike — then I look for sales ONLINE,