Radically slimmed down: there are few bike parts that can be trimmed down to the ultimate in lightweight construction like wind jackets. The size of a fist, they fit into any jersey pocket. And although they hardly weigh more than an energy bar, they reliably protect the wearer against the wind. Splashing water and dirt roll off them, even after several washes. In heavy rain, the jerseys can get clammy after just a few minutes, but they still take the place of wind waistcoats over jerseys: more protection from wind and weather, with sometimes the same weight - that's a good argument for racers and all those who start their tour in predictable weather conditions. However, the minimalists are spartanly equipped. Adjustable cuffs to push up the sleeves for cooling? There are none. Elasticated cuffs tighten the wrist more or less tightly. Ventilation openings, reflectors or lined collars are only available at an extra cost, if at all. And who needs a back pocket on the descent? Lightweight construction also means doing without.
Rating: 6 stars = max. points
Craft Focus Hood Jacket
120 grams, despite the hood and breast pocket with zip - that's really light. When the jacket is not in use, it disappears into this pocket to save space. The casually cut wind jacket with airy mesh on the underside of the arms and on the sides of the chest will particularly appeal to trail bikers.
bikers in particular.
Info www.craft.se
Price 99,95 Euro
Weight 120 gram (M)
Weight/packing size ***
Weather protection ****
Mavic Cosmic Pro Jacket
Do you like racing and are you slim? Then the extremely form-fitting Cosmic Pro jacket is perfect for you. Windproof material in all exposed areas protects you from cooling down on the gravel descent. Airy stretch adapts to the body like a chameleon adapts to its surroundings.
Info www.mavic.com
Price 110 Euro
Weight 82 grams (M)
Weight/pack size ******
Weather protection **
Pearl Izumi P.R.O. Barrier Lite
The minimalist Pearl Izumi offers neither pockets nor a pannier. Instead, the lightweight wind bag with its side stretch inserts is consistently cut to fit the body and the cycling position. The Barrier Lite fabric is also highly water-repellent. A great jacket.
Info www.paul-lange.de
Price 99 Euro
Weight 111 gram (L)
Handling *****
Weather protection ****
Scott RC Pro Jacket
The RC Pro Jacket has racing genes in it. It fits snugly and is tailored for a sporty posture. However, the stable material with a low stretch content restricts mobility somewhat. Sweat from the last sprint duel can easily evaporate from the mesh fabric under the arms.
vapour from the mesh fabric under the arms.
Info www.scott-sprts.com
Price 99 Euro
Weight 93 grams (M)
Weight/pack size *****
Weather protection ****
Sugoi Helium Jacket
There is little to criticise about the Helium. The weather protection is excellent. The two side pockets and the ventilation opening at the back are practical details. In the right size, the Sugoi has a nice racy cut. Unfortunately, the sleeves are very short and the rest of the jacket is rather large. Trying on is the deciding factor here.
Info www.sugoi.com
Price 89 Euro
Weight 110 grams (S)
Handling ****
Weather protection *****
Vaude Air Jacket II
Green does not always mean eco. But in the case of the Air Jacket it does. The completely windproof jacket bears the Bluesign seal and is impregnated in an environmentally friendly way without PVC. Its small back pocket can be used as a pannier if required. The cut is designed for a more upright position.
Info www.vaude.com
Price 55 Euro
Weight 108 grams (L)
Weight/pack size *****
Weather protection *****
Stefan Frey
Editor
