MTB wind jacket test: Van Rysel wind jacket Racer ultralight - lightweight from Decathlon

Van Rysel windbreaker Racer ultralight - Features

Typical of its own brands, the outdoor giant Decathlon packs a lot of equipment into the Windbreaker from Van Rysel. In addition to classic stretch trims on the waistband and sleeves, the Racer has a full-length back zip with a zip garage. The collar is lined with a slightly softer material. Reflective strips on the back increase safety in road traffic, while the fully mesh-covered back increases the supply of fresh air. The Van Rysel doesn't have its own pocket, but there is a pass-through to the jersey pockets and a pouch for stowing the windbreaker. The workmanship is not of a very high quality, but it is certainly appropriate for the low price. There is also a suitable model for women in the range.

Weather protection

In bad weather, the Van Rysel has some drawbacks. The many mesh inserts allow a lot of draughts to reach the body. It can get chilly, especially on long, fast descents. Protection against splashing water is still ok at the front, but water immediately penetrates through the open fabric at the back.

Wearing comfort

Thanks to the generous use of stretch material under the arms and on the back, the Van Rysel fits snugly around the body. This means that hardly anything can flutter while riding. The wearing comfort of this very affordable wind jacket is surprisingly good. The collar is not too tight around the neck, and the neck can get a little drafty on a wild ride. The somewhat tight and narrow cuffs can cut in slightly at the wrists, while a seam at the elbow is not optimally positioned. The skin doesn't feel too sweaty.

Handling

Thanks to the high stretch content, the jacket is easy to slip into despite the slim fit; the only time you get caught is when threading through the cuffs. The zip can also be operated with one hand while riding. The wide slit at the back makes it easy to reach into the jersey pockets. The Van Rysel wind jacket can be stuffed into the pannier in a few simple steps and tucked away neatly in the jersey pockets or rucksack.

Van Rysel wind jacket Racer ultralight - Price and info

• Price 34,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes 129.4 g (size L) / S-XXL
• Pack size 550 cc
• Manufactured in China
• Equipment Stretch cuffs; extended back with stretch cuffs; mesh side back

Valuation

Conclusion Van Rysel wind jacket Racer ultralight

Typical Decathlon: the Van Rysel offers a lot of features for little money. Ventilation zones under the arms and on the back regulate the body climate. An opening allows you to reach into the jersey pockets. Panniers, lined collar - everything on board. Thanks to the stretchy material, the Van Rysel has a bike-specific, body-hugging fit. Unfortunately, there is a seam above the elbow and you shouldn't expect too much in terms of workmanship.