Cycling jackets are one of those garments that always raise questions before heading out to ride. Are they only necessary when it's cold? What about when it rains? Is it better to have a thin jacket, a thick one… or one of each? Is it more important for it to be waterproof or to breathe well?
Don't worry if these questions are also on your mind. It's very common among those of us who frequently go out riding, whether it's with mountain bikes on trails where the weather changes quickly, or with road bikes, where speed makes the temperature sensation vary greatly during a route.
To help you make the best decision, we've prepared this practical guide in which we answer the most common questions about this type of garment. Because if there's one thing that's clear, it's that choosing the right cycling jacket can make the difference between a comfortable ride or a day of pure suffering.
Whether you face cold descents in high mountains, unexpected downpours on routes gravel, or head out in winter on open roads, having a jacket suited to the type of cycling you do is key. The material, fit, pockets, ventilation, and type of use (recreational or more demanding) are essential factors to consider.
And if you're one of those who combines road bike rides during the week with MTB getaways on weekends, you probably need a versatile jacket that adapts to both terrains and conditions. So keep reading: we're going to help you make the right choice for your next purchase.
What exactly is a cycling jacket?
Cycling jackets are technical garments that we use as the outermost layer when dressing to go out on a bike ride. In other words, it is the garment that is farthest from the body and most in contact with the outside. And here it is important to keep in mind that wearing a jacket specifically designed for cycling is not the same as wearing a sports jacket for other uses, such as a tracksuit jacket or similar. Cycling jackets have a specific design and cut for riding a bike. This design must use flexible fabrics, with a cut or pattern that does not obstruct the movement of the legs or hips while pedaling. It should also have layers of breathable fabric and other insulating or waterproof layers to protect from water and cold. Based on these main premises, we recommend looking for your cycling jacket in specialized stores. Not just any type of sports garment is suitable for cycling. Especially if you want to ride frequently and improve your level. Having clarified these basic concepts, it's time to look at the different types of jackets most commonly used today and choose the most useful one according to your needs.
Types of jackets to protect against the cold
There are different types of jackets depending on the weather conditions in which we are going to use them. A first classification can be made based on temperature. Thus, we have mid-season jackets and winter jackets.
Lightweight or mid-season jackets
This type of garment is mainly intended for use in spring or autumn. They are less heavy, somewhat tighter than winter jackets, and have more areas made of breathable fabrics (generally mesh with micro-perforations) in the armpits or the central part of the back. They are generally recommended for a temperature range between 10ºC and 20ºC.
Thick or winter jackets
As the name suggests, these are jackets designed for riding a bike in winter. As a general recommendation, you should wear a winter jacket when the temperature drops below 10ºC. They have more layers of fabric (up to 3) than a mid-season or autumn jacket, but must maintain adequate breathability in the areas where you sweat the most (armpits or back). It is advisable for them to have some type of insulating lining made of wool or polyester and a windproof outer layer, as well as a high collar.
Types of jackets to protect against the wind
Windbreakers are a specific type of jacket that is somewhat thinner than a purely winter jacket, designed to shield against the effects of the wind. If you live in a windy area, this is definitely a type of jacket you should have in your wardrobe. Make sure its cut is more fitted and that the outer layer is made of windproof fabric. A very well-known example of this technical material is Gore-Tex Windstopper, which deflects gusts of wind and prevents the gradual cooling of the body.
Types of jackets to protect from the rain
For rainy days, the most suitable thing is to have a waterproof jacket. Within this category, there are several versions: flexible and compact (they can be carried in a jersey pocket or backpack); for rainy days without cold, thick for cold and rain or heavy precipitation; waterproof winter jackets in case you live in high mountain areas... Choose it according to the climate of your area.
Cycling jackets according to the type of use
In addition to models specific for a certain range of temperatures or weather conditions, we can also establish a classification of cycling jackets according to the type of cycling you practice.
Jackets for road cycling
If you do road cycling or gravel, your jacket should be more fitted and, if possible, with a windproof layer, as you will be more exposed to its effects. However, fitted does not mean it is less warm. There are very fitted winter jackets for road cycling with several layers and insulating linings. We recommend wearing it over a thermal base layer for the coldest days. Also, it should have reflective bands on the front and back to see and be seen by other vehicles.
Jackets for mountain biking
For mountain biking, there is more variety and freedom of choice. Generally, you can opt for a looser fit, with more flexible fabrics. However, for more classic mountain bike routes, like Rally or Cross Country, you can use a fitted jacket or even a road jacket. In more extreme disciplines, such as Enduro or Downhill, the design can indeed be looser. But we recommend that the model has reinforced or abrasion-resistant fabrics on the sleeves or elbows.
Should you wear a jersey under the jacket?
Once you have chosen your cycling jacket, let's now clear up some doubts about how to use this garment. One of the most common questions is whether we should wear it over the jersey or if the jacket replaces the jersey. In our article about how to dress for winter cycling we explain the famous three-layer theory. That is, to keep warm in the cold with a thermal shirt, jersey, and jacket. But this is a basic theory that we can even modify on the go depending on the conditions. Or whether we tolerate the cold better or worse. You can wear a jacket and short-sleeved jersey on cool or moderately cold days, a jacket and long-sleeved jersey for colder days, a jacket and thermal base layer, or all three layers on freezing or very cold days. However, and based on our experience, the combination with the best balance between comfort and warmth will be the jacket with a thermal base layer.
Vest or jacket, which is better?
The vest is a warm garment for cyclists that has become very fashionable in recent years. And you may have one at home and still not know exactly which days it is most suitable for. It is an alternative warm garment, with the following advantages:
- Easy fit: there are quite a few high-level or professional cyclists who prefer the vest over the jacket. It is a garment that fits the body more effectively, protects sensitive areas from the cold such as the chest and back, and is easier to put on when getting started.
- Warm clothing for the whole year: the vest is a versatile warm garment for cyclists. If a spring or summer day dawns gray and cool, wearing a vest will effectively protect you from the drop in temperature without going overboard with warmth.
- Better breathability and mobility: as we've mentioned, the vest is one of the favorite garments for high-level cyclists. It is more comfortable when pedaling, fits closely, and insulates enough from the cold. However, it is not highly recommended for days with very low temperatures.
Our conclusion is that the vest can be a very useful alternative for cool but not especially cold days. However, in winter it is difficult for a vest to replace a jacket.
Is it essential to wear a jacket in winter?
Finally, and as a summary of everything above, you may still have doubts about whether it is essential to wear a jacket in winter to go cycling. Although it is the most effective way to tackle the cold or protect your body from precipitation, it is not a recommendation that must be followed to the letter. Its use or not will depend on the weather conditions at the time and your tolerance to the cold. If you handle it well and warm up quickly with exercise, there may be days when you don't need it. With a long-sleeved jersey and thermal shirt you can ride without problems and more comfortably. Likewise, if you do intense training and your goal is to reach a good fitness peak, the jacket can even be a hindrance. In this situation, and if you are not very sensitive to low temperatures, you should reserve the jacket only for very cold days.