Buyers Guide to Winter Jackets

After a pleasant summer riding or commuting to work the thought of grey, damp days in the saddle isn't exactly inspiring is it?

But by kitting yourself out with the right clothing and accessories you can continue riding or commuting whatever the weather throws at you, and in relative comfort too.

dhb Rogate £44.99 - windproof front panels

The best thing you can spend your money on is a good quality jacket, the more money you can afford to spend the better fabric and jacket you'll get in return. It's hard to believe this if you've never bought a cycling jacket before, but trust us, on a windy and rainy evening when you're cold and tired, a leaky or crap jacket will be enough to push you back into the car or train.

This autumn we've seen even more women specific gear than ever before so there's no need to buy an ill-fitting men's version, unless of course you want to!

Thermal and windproof Jackets

Obviously if you're a fair weather rider and don't plan on venturing out at the mere hint of a cloud or spot of rain then you won't need to spend quite as much, but you should still consider a water-resistant and breathable fabric at the very least. Windproof jackets can vary from lightweight to quite heavy depending on their thermal properties too, as some use thicker fabrics with high thermal properties. The good thing is they have good breathability and stretchy properties for a good anatomic fit and no draughts. The lighterweight versions still offer some warmth and good protection from the wind and are fine for above zero temperatures, you can mix and match baselayers to get versatility.

Waterproof shells

Waterproof shells are a good buy as you can wear them with a lightweight baselayer or jersey on warmer wet days or layer up for freezing adventures. If the fabric is waterproof it usually is windproof too, beware though as not all wind and waterproof fabrics are breathable. If you opt for a non-breathable fabric you will most likely overheat and get wet from your own sweat. All but the most sedate of riders will require a breathable jacket, and this is where the extra money comes in.

Features such as drop down rear flaps and drawstring hems help keep you dry from water off your wheels, whilst storm flaps and adjustable cuffs also keep out the elements.

Gore Alpine Lady

Fabrics to choose from

Fabrics such as Goretex and Pertex, and some other manufacturers trade named fabrics, have breathable membranes which let moisture and heat out but wind and water can't penetrate. These sophisticated fabrics are seen on the more expensive jackets and tend to have taped seams to maximise their waterproof nature. A lightweight and extremely weatherproof jacket is the Gore Alpine Lady Jacket £139.99 which also packs down tightly too for easy stowage.

Features to look out for

Whether you're after a waterproof shell or thermal jacket it's vital to have easy to use pockets and zippers, as you're likely to have cold hands or be wearing gloves. The zipper mechanism should be easy to find and pockets need to have openings large enough to get a gloved hand inside easily. Front zips should have at least one storm flap to keep out driving rain and cold winds and two-way zips are handy to vary ventilation too. Pit zips under the arms can be really handy and let our heat without letting in cold draughts or rain.

Collars often come with a micro-fleece lining, which adds to warmth and comfort when your chin and neck are getting blasted by snow or rain. Make sure the collar doesn't interfere with your helmet and if the jacket has a hood, that it can be folded away if necessary.

Fit is important too, so try loads of jackets on before buying if possible and preferably bend over or sit on a bike to simulate the riding position to check that arms etc are the right length. Don't go for a tight fit as you may need to add another layer in the depths of winter, and on the other hand a baggy fit may annoy you flapping in the wind.

We're busy testing winter jackets so stay posted for full reviews soon. To save your fingers searching, here are the jackets we're reviewd so far.