Ultralight rain jacket?

[Lewis Moon]

Well...that's four days w/o riding. AZ's been having one of those winters and for the past four days it seems that it's always raining or threatening and sloppy when I want to ride. I've always quipped that in AZ we don't have to ride in the rain...but over the past year I've gotten dooshed twice on commutes from sneaky monsoon storms and I've opted to blow off six or seven rides because we were having those spotty rains where it's dry in the front yard but sloppy wet in the back (AZ folks know what I mean). I need a rain jacket/cape that is ultra packable so I can stow it in a jersey pocket on training rides and otherwise keep it stashed in my commuter pack. I like the fit to be trim w/o a lot of flappy extra fabric, I don't need extra pockets and I want it sized to fit over a Roubaix fabric riding jacket, but pretty much nothing more. The Pactimo Ultralight (https://www.pactimo.com/collections/mens-cycling-jackets-rain/products/ultra-lite-packable-cycling-rain-jacket-mens-1) pretty much hits the nail on the head but, are there any others I should look at?

[quickfeet]

If you want a good that goes over your helmet too I have a Bontrager Avert that has a boa cinch and is freaking awesome. Ultra lightweight and crazy water proof.

[Lewis Moon]

If you want a good that goes over your helmet too I have a Bontrager Avert that has a boa cinch and is freaking awesome. Ultra lightweight and crazy water proof.

I'm not a fan of hoods while riding. They always seem to restrict my peripheral vision and hearing too much.

[weisan]

I need a rain jacket/cape that is ultra packable so I can stow it in a jersey pocket on training rides and otherwise keep it stashed in my commuter pack. I like the fit to be trim w/o a lot of flappy extra fabric, I don't need extra pockets

If someone wrote a marketing ad using those exact words, then the answer is:

Goretex Shakedry

I want it sized to fit over a Roubaix fabric riding jacket

But if you add that, then the answer is no.

It's designed to be ultra compact and fitting. It will accommodate normal jersey/baselayer and no more.

[Lewis Moon]

If someone wrote a marketing ad using those exact words, then the answer is:

Goretex Shakedry



But if you add that, then the answer is no.

It's designed to be ultra compact and fitting. It will accommodate normal jersey/baselayer and no more.

The jackets I wear fit more like thicker jerseys. I wear this one (https://www.chainreactioncycles.com/us/en/dhb-classic-softshell-windslam-jacket-dash-aw18/rp-prod175956?gs=1&sku=sku668333&pgrid=53273554795&ptaid=pla-417645270880&utm_source=google&utm_term=&utm_campaign=PLA+All+Products&utm_medium=base&utm_content=mkwid|sySj55bzo_dc|pcrid|253651338634| pkw||pmt||prd|668333US&gclid=CjwKCAiAqOriBRAfEiwAEb9oXelE894cP9blQvbzCQes VCiTG9iM1VRLaAVxdeWPvK8drTNfrCdoeRoCY5cQAvD_BwE) almost exclusively in the winter. That still too thick?

[makoti]

I have an Assos one that is really packable. No hood. Wow. Hope that URL truncates...
https://www.competitivecyclist.com/assos-sj.blitzfeder-mens-jacket?skid=AAS004Q-SAFYL-M&CMP_SKU=AAS004Q&MER=0406&CSPID=0914&mr:trackingCode=99624B1A-31A5-E611-80F1-0050569428E8&mr:referralID=NA&mr:device=c&mr:adType=plaonline&mr:ad=264510621503&mr:keyword=&mr:match=&mr:tid=pla-378297700307&mr:ploc=9008151&mr:iloc=&mr:store=&mr:filter=378297700307&CMP_ID=PLA_GOc014&CSPID=0914&utm_source=Google&utm_medium=PLA&k_clickid=_k_CjwKCAiAqOriBRAfEiwAEb9oXX04-Kne7Dpnnugjc7K41QlyJ6k57I373-rZ9GhxWVBpC6qo7sg0uxoCObIQAvD_BwE_k_&gclid=CjwKCAiAqOriBRAfEiwAEb9oXX04-Kne7Dpnnugjc7K41QlyJ6k57I373-rZ9GhxWVBpC6qo7sg0uxoCObIQAvD_BwE

[weisan]

That still too thick?

hard to say

[danesgod]

Its not cycling specific because I climb, ride, hike, and stroll, but I like my hoodless pullover houdini (https://www.rei.com/product/872073/patagonia-houdini-pullover-mens), its more like a wind shirt than a rain layer, but its definitely ultralight and pack-able (See review (http://cyclingspokane.blogspot.com/2013/10/review-patagonia-houdini.html) for photo of packed size). It'll keep you dry-ish. :)

Lately, this jacket goes with me everywhere.

There seems to be an inverse correlation between ultralight and waterproof. Although there's always the garbage bag, a ultralight backpacking classic, just... not breathable.

[Lewis Moon]

Its not cycling specific because I climb, ride, hike, and stroll, but I like my hoodless pullover houdini (https://www.rei.com/product/872073/patagonia-houdini-pullover-mens), its more like a wind shirt than a rain layer, but its definitely ultralight and pack-able (See review (http://cyclingspokane.blogspot.com/2013/10/review-patagonia-houdini.html) for photo of packed size). It'll keep you dry-ish. :)

Lately, this jacket goes with me everywhere.

There seems to be an inverse correlation between ultralight and waterproof. Although there's always the garbage bag, a ultralight backpacking classic, just... not breathable.

I think the working modifier here is "enough"

ultralight enough...to not take up gobs of space, so if there's a decision to be made, you decide to carry it.

waterproof enough....to get you someplace dry without going hypothermic.

breathable enough...that it doesn't start to rain inside the jacket.

[tsarpepe]

breathable enough...that it doesn't start to rain inside the jacket.

:):):)

[Bentley]

I have never worn one, but I have seen them. Superlightweight jacket, would appear that it would meet all criteria. I would suggest moving up one size so you could wear it comfortably over your other kit.

Excel Sports has them on sale from time to time

[danesgod]

I think the working modifier here is "enough"

ultralight enough...to not take up gobs of space, so if there's a decision to be made, you decide to carry it.

waterproof enough....to get you someplace dry without going hypothermic.

breathable enough...that it doesn't start to rain inside the jacket.

In that case, maybe the jacket I like (Houdini) isn't for you. It treats me well in a bit of moisture / drizzle in the Bay Area or in the wind when I'm descending bikes or rock climbing. Its extremely light (and breathable). IMHO,its not waterproof... I'd call it, briefly water resistant / better than nothing.

[572cv]

Weisan is correct that the Gore Shakedry is a terrific jacket. It does breathe! On the other hand, it is pricey. If you decide to try the Shakedry, study the sizing table carefully. I think I have an XL the only time ever.... usually its an L sizing, i.e. they run small.

I used to use a Showers Pass for an emergency rain jacket, but while pretty much waterproof, the perspiration rain cloud I generate dampened my enthusiasm for it. You might be different.

On a side note, I have this not too old burgundy colored Rapha shell, made in italy, which is not totally waterproof, but compresses to next to nothing, fits beautifully, and is stylish and understated. I don't know if it is still in their repertoire.

[Charles M]

Hands down the nicest piece of kit right now...

GORE Shakedry and Shakedry Stretch...

Extremely light / Packable
completely waterproof
Breathable well beyond Pactimo.
the stretch version moves VERY well.

It aint cheap

[joosttx]

The jackets I wear fit more like thicker jerseys. I wear this one (https://www.chainreactioncycles.com/us/en/dhb-classic-softshell-windslam-jacket-dash-aw18/rp-prod175956?gs=1&sku=sku668333&pgrid=53273554795&ptaid=pla-417645270880&utm_source=google&utm_term=&utm_campaign=PLA+All+Products&utm_medium=base&utm_content=mkwid|sySj55bzo_dc|pcrid|253651338634| pkw||pmt||prd|668333US&gclid=CjwKCAiAqOriBRAfEiwAEb9oXelE894cP9blQvbzCQes VCiTG9iM1VRLaAVxdeWPvK8drTNfrCdoeRoCY5cQAvD_BwE) almost exclusively in the winter. That still too thick?

you will be fine. The shake dry jacket is form fitting. I would be more concern if you have a beer gut than an extra layer of clothing. I rode for 2.5 hours in the rain with my Shakedry Jacket it on monday. The only thing that was dry on me was my upper body. I was doing base miles so I was not riding hard. It is so breathable that I did not sweat it out. It is a great jacket.

[choke]

The Sportful Hot Pack 6 and Endura FS-260 both pack up small and do a good job IMO.

[verbs4us]

The Gore Shakedry appears to come in only two colors: black and dark gray. It's rainy and dark--I think I'll go out in a jacket that makes me disappear against the darkness of the road, and nearly invisible to drivers in their streaked windshields.

"Honey, I'm heading out for a ride. My will is in the top left dresser drawer..."

[Bob Ross]

The Gore Shakedry appears to come in only two colors: black and dark gray. It's rainy and dark--I think I'll go out in a jacket that makes me disappear against the darkness of the road, and nearly invisible to drivers in their streaked windshields.

"Honey, I'm heading out for a ride. My will is in the top left dresser drawer..."


I'd swear I saw a link to a Gore ShakeDry jecket with Yellow HiViz elements, in a thread on another cycling forum where folks were making that exact same observation. Now I gotta go find it, 'cuz I remember when I first heard about the ShakeDry I told myself "if it wasn't such a drab color I'd buy one now" and then after I saw that thread I was like "Well crap, now I don't have any excuses!" BikeForums.net I think. Stand by...

Edit: Ah-ha! Here it is https://www.competitivecyclist.com/gore-wear-c5-gore-tex-shakedry-1985-viz-jacket-mens

Still pretty dark & drab for a rain jacket, but those HiViz panels on the sleeves and butt are certainly better than nothing.

https://content.competitivecyclist.com/images/items/900/GWR/GWR004G/BLAYL_D1.jpg

[muz]

Here (https://www.sierra.com/gore-bike-wear-one-gore-tex-active-shell-bike-jacket-waterproof-for-men~p~634tv/)is a smoking deal on a Gore Shakedry rain jacket. It's extremely light weight and breathes better than anything else I've tried.

[marciero]

Here (https://www.sierra.com/gore-bike-wear-one-gore-tex-active-shell-bike-jacket-waterproof-for-men~p~634tv/)is a smoking deal on a Gore Shakedry rain jacket. It's extremely light weight and breathes better than anything else I've tried.

Is that a Shake-dry? Certainly looks like one.

[muz]

Is that a Shake-dry? Certainly looks like one.

Yes it is. I think the poor copy is why it's still available.

[joosttx]

Is that a Shake-dry? Certainly looks like one.

Looks like my shake dry jacket. I just bought me another for that price.

[weisan]

Very unusual. No mention of the word Shakedry anywhere. But definitely look the part.

I would buy first ask questions later. Sierra have good return policy.

You won't find it cheaper anywhere else.

I already got two, if I buy another one, I am officially a kiasu Singaporean.

[muz]

I would buy first ask questions later. Sierra have good return policy.


I already bought one, it IS shakedry.

[marciero]

Yes it is. I think the poor copy is why it's still available.

Yes probably just poor copy.
They also have the "1985 Shakedry" in XL for $20 more.

[geordanh]

Plus one for the shake dry deals on Sierra trading. Got mine for $60 a couple months ago :)

It rains constantly here in Vancouver. I swear by the shake dry. It’s a game changer. Eventually they will get the dies right to make them bright, but lights plus other bright bits, shoes gloves helmet etc, I feel fine with it. I bring it on most rides as a backup. Wearing it is no compromise - can ride for hours and stay dry. Most breathable jacket for efforts I’ve ever worn.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[eddief]

just bought that one. Let's see if it fits. If not, will return or it goes up here.

[marciero]

just bought that one. Let's see if it fits. If not, will return or it goes up here.

Me too. Almost bought a L in the other version but I think the XL will do it. Looking forward to giving it a spin.

[Geemalar]

Just grabbed an XL, locals swear by this jacket for wet weather rides........not crazy about the dark color, but it beats the alternative.........

[woodworker]

Any observations on sizing--how accurate the sizing chart is? I'm 5'10" and around 190, 42" chest. XL or XXL?

[joosttx]

Any observations on sizing--how accurate the sizing chart is? I'm 5'10" and around 190, 42" chest. XL or XXL?

I’m 6’1, 170lb, 42 chest and I fit into a large. So maybe an xl or large depending on your gut size. The jacket tapers.

[muz]

Any observations on sizing--how accurate the sizing chart is? I'm 5'10" and around 190, 42" chest. XL or XXL?

I am 36" chest and M fits well. I am size S in every other jacket. I would suggest one size up from your normal jacket size.

[tsarpepe]

https://www.steepandcheap.com/gore-bike-wear-gore-tex-paclite-jacket-mens?skid=GBW00BT-RD-M&INT_ID=REC_rule|rule_NA_NA_REC_NA_NA_20190206&ti=UkVDX3J1bGV8cnVsZV9OQV9OQV9SRUNfTkFfTkFfMjAxOTA yMDY=

[marciero]

:sigh: Sizing is so hard...

I am 36" chest and M fits well. I am size S in every other jacket. I would suggest one size up from your normal jacket size.

This agrees with the sizing chart chest size. So XL would be perfect!

I’m 6’1, 170lb, 42 chest and I fit into a large. So maybe an xl or large depending on your gut size. The jacket tapers.

So L would be perfect!

I am often between sizes with tops with L typically a bit tight in shoulders and XL are loose in the waist. I went ahead and ordered the L to go with the XL I ordered last night. May come down to preference-form fit vs a little looser. Complicating matters is the fact that the XL is the newer "1985" version I think.

[verbs4us]

Edit: Ah-ha! Here it is https://www.competitivecyclist.com/gore-wear-c5-gore-tex-shakedry-1985-viz-jacket-mens

Still pretty dark & drab for a rain jacket, but those HiViz panels on the sleeves and butt are certainly better than nothing.

https://content.competitivecyclist.com/images/items/900/GWR/GWR004G/BLAYL_D1.jpg

Thanks Bob. It's a good start. I'm a belts & suspenders guy: I go international safety migraine yellow all over or I stay home.

[Lewis Moon]

I went ahead and bought the Pactimo. I've always had good luck with their gear and this one looks about as light and packable as you can get. Those were really my main requirements because I really don't want to have to worry about it taking up space in my pack or pocket. I'll probably have to hit it with DWR every once in a while but I live in Arizona and can't really see wearing it more than four times a year, and then only in light rain or just long enough to get under an awning some place.
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1296/7005/products/R00769_M_Ultra-Lite_Jacket_clear_Front.png?v=1542421265