MTB wind jacket test: Ion Shelter Lite 2.5L - trail jacket with added rain protection

Although Ion has a suitable wind jacket for mountain bikers in its range, the Munich-based company chose its new 2.5-layer rain jacket for this test. At 250 grams, together with the Lupra from Gorewear, it marks the upper limit in the comparison - almost a little heavy for an always-with-you jacket. The pack size is also slightly larger due to the hood. However, there is not much else on offer in terms of features. The small flaps on the long sleeves and the zip that opens from both sides are good. The back pocket is also the pannier. However, it could be much smaller and would take up less space in the rucksack.

ION Shelter Lite 2.5L: real weather protection

As a fully waterproof jacket, the ION naturally has clear advantages in terms of weather protection compared to a pure wind jacket. Rain showers can be Shelter can do no harm. Even in strong winds, you are well protected here. However, if you want to step up in bad weather, you will miss the ventilation option - that's the downside of waterproofness.

>> If you are looking for a little more weather protection, we can recommend our last rain jacket test

Wearing comfort

The membrane exposed on the inside quickly becomes sweaty at high intensity. At this point at the latest, you would want to open a ventilation system. However, the only way to get some fresh air to the body is through the front zip, which can also be opened from below. Otherwise, the fit is orientated towards the needs of trail bikers: the slightly stretchy material offers a high degree of freedom of movement. The rear is cut long enough and stays reliably over the buttocks. No matter how much you stretch when rolling down the steps, the sleeves won't slip up from your gloves. The thin hood fits very well under the helmet, but its material is loud and ruffly, which can quickly become uncomfortable while riding.

Handling

The sealed zips are difficult to open due to their design and require both hands to open them. The back pocket, on the other hand, is easy to reach while riding and can be opened properly. As a pannier, the back pocket is quite large, which eats up space in the rucksack.

ION Shelter Lite 2.5L Wind Jacket - Price and info

• Price 199,99 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
• Weight / Sizes 251.5 g / XXS-XXL
• Pack size 900 cc
• Manufactured in China
• Equipment Hood; taped seams; flap cuffs; back pocket; pack pouch; zip garage; two-way zip behind

Valuation

Conclusion Ion Shelter Lite 2.5L wind jacket

Although Ion would have a suitable wind jacket in its range, the Munich-based company sent a 2.5-layer rain jacket to the test. This has clear advantages in terms of weather protection. Thanks to a hood that fits well under the helmet, you stay absolutely dry. On the ascent, however, you would wish for ventilation - only the zip can be opened from below. The open membrane on the inside quickly sticks to the skin. Top: long sleeves with flap. Unisex!