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We have tested these models
The weekend in the bike park is coming up, but the weather forecast announces constant rain? Was the sun shining just a moment ago, but suddenly a downpour hits the Enduro stage? Then a robust rain jacket should not be missing from your luggage. In contrast to the lighter trail and touring rain jackets, these models don't need to pack small or weigh little.
Generously equipped & with 3-layer laminates: What makes a robust MTB rain jacket
A rain jacket for hardcore use should be able to do one thing above all else: reliably keep the rain out and also withstand contact with the ground or trees. The robust 3-layer fabrics are much better suited for this than the thinner 2 or 2.5-layer jackets.
A high collar and a hood that reaches neatly over the helmet prevent rainwater from washing down the neck like a fishing boat in wind force 10. The cuffs should also be adjustable with Velcro so that the water doesn't creep up the sleeves on the descent.
Even if breathability only plays a subordinate role in these rain jackets, ventilation openings under the arms, two-way zips and pockets with mesh improve the climate inside the jacket by a world. Clever details such as ticket pockets on the sleeves or goggle cleaning cloths further enhance the jackets.
How BIKE tests rain jackets
Weather protection (35 %)
All jackets were machine washed five times with liquid detergent on a short programme without spinning at 30 degrees. We then assessed the beading behaviour with sprayed water in three classes, similar to the spray test (DIN-EN-ISO 4920). Using a so-called Suter tester (see DIN-EN-ISO 20811), a water column of 3000 millimetres is simulated for two minutes at several points on the surface and at seams in order to test the impermeability.
Body climate (25 %)
For the first time, our test procedures include a test developed in-house to assess vapour permeability. The test is based on the same principle as the well-known MVTR test (Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate). Here, too, the amount of water vapour that can penetrate through a certain area of material in a certain time is determined.
We use two hemispheres the size of a handball and stretch the jacket material airtight between them. One hemisphere always contains the same amount of precisely tempered water, while the other contains a material that binds the moisture transported through the jacket. To speed up the process, the upper hemisphere is cooled. The amount of water transported and thus the performance of the membrane can be determined using a precision balance.
We also attach great importance to climate-regulating construction details: Two-way zips, mesh-ventilated pockets, underarm zips and cuffs that allow the sleeves to be pushed up were rated positively according to a points table.
Equipment & function (20 %)
The presence and functional design of pockets, cuffs and hood are included in the assessment of the features. Points are also awarded for the feel/skin feel and noise development of the fabric.
Pack size & weight (20 %)
We determine the pack size in a cylinder with a diameter of ten centimetres, in which the loosely stuffed jacket is compressed by a piston weighing two kilos (folded and rolled up by hand, smaller volumes are achieved).
Robust MTB jackets in the 2023 test: Info & rating
Endura MT500 Waterproof Jacket II
- Price 279,99 Euro >> available here
- Weight / pack size / size¹ 599 grams / 2.1 litres / M
- Material ExoShell40DR; 3L; PTFE-free; PFC-free impregnation
- Equipment 2-way adjustable hood; slash pockets; UA ventilation; ticket pocket; Velcro; drawstring; goggle cloth; reflective
- Fit Mid-length sleeves; slim body; movement-friendly
Conclusion: The Endura MT500 Waterproof Jacket II in the test
The heavy-duty classic from Scotland is extensively equipped and perfectly adjustable. The sleeves with flap and double cuffs are great, as is the well-fitting hood. This can be gathered up when not in use. Only moderately vapour permeable, but extensively ventilated and therefore also well suited for trail use. The waterproofing lasts a comparatively long time, the MT500 seems made for eternity.
Valuation
Weather protection (35 %)
9 out of 10 points
Body climate (25 %)
7 out of 10 points
Weight¹ / pack size (20 %)
3 out of 10 points
Equipment / function (20 %)
9 out of 10 points
Fox Defend 3L Water Jacket
- Price 249,99 Euro >> available here
- Weight / pack size / size¹ 549 grams / 2.0 litres / M
- Material Polyester/polyamide; 3L
- Equipment 2-way adjustable hood; slit pockets; drawstring; Velcro cuffs with flap; Cordura on elbows
- Fit Mid-length sleeves; slim torso; somewhat stiff material
Conclusion: The Fox Defend 3L Water Jacket in the test
Fox tailors a robust 3-layer jacket with a sporty, comfortable cut. Top: The sleeves with flaps extend down to the gloves, but the rigid material restricts mobility somewhat. The large hood also sits tightly on the helmet, and the collar only closes properly when it is gathered. In addition to moderate breathability, the waterproofing is not very durable. The climate can be improved somewhat with a zip under the arms.
Valuation
Weather protection (35 %)
7 out of 10 points
Body climate (25 %)
7 out of 10 points
Weight¹ / pack size (20 %)
4 out of 10 points
Equipment / function (20 %)
7 out of 10 points
Leatt Jacket MTB HydraDri 5.0
- Price 299 Euro >> available here
- Weight / pack size / size¹ 675 grams / 2.2 litres / L
- Material HydraDri MAX; 3L; ePTFE
- Equipment Adjustable hood with magnetic holder; Velcro cuffs; drawstring; ticking pocket; mesh slash pockets; bar for travelling with jacket open; cleaning cloth
- Fit Slim fit; long sleeves; little flexibility
Conclusion: The Leatt Jacket MTB HydraDri 5.0 in the test
The Leatt is just right for rainy days in the bike park: robust and lavishly equipped. However, the various ventilation options, ticket pocket and magnetically attachable hood make the already stubborn jacket unnecessarily heavy. In addition, the outside of the 3-layer jacket quickly soaks up water, and one seam let in a minimal amount of water. The hood is too bulky for under the helmet, but also doesn't reach perfectly over the helmet. Not for touring bikers.
Valuation
Weather protection (35 %)
6 out of 10 points
Body climate (25 %)
6 out of 10 points
Weight¹ / pack size (20 %)
2 out of 10 points
Equipment / function (20 %)
10 out of 10 points
Rockrider MTB All Mountain rain jacket
- Price 89,99 Euro >> available here
- Weight / pack size / size¹ 438 grams / 1.6 litres / M
- Material PU membrane; 3L; PU coating
- Equipment Chest pocket with mobile phone compartment and pouch; adjustable hood; asym. zip; stretch cuffs and flaps; drawcord; ventilation slits
- Fit Slim fit; long sleeves
Conclusion: The Rockrider MTB All Mountain rain jacket in the test
For just 90 euros, Decathlon offers an extensively equipped rain jacket with a sporty cut. The long sleeves with flaps and double cuffs are great. The fit at the rear is also perfect. The jacket itself gets sweaty quickly, and the ventilation slits on the back and forearms don't help much. The hood sits too tightly over the helmet and the flabby peak hangs in the face under the helmet. Otherwise a good jacket at a great price.
Valuation
Weather protection (35 %)
8 out of 10 points
Body climate (25 %)
6 out of 10 points
Weight¹ / pack size (20 %)
6 out of 10 points
Equipment / function (20 %)
7 out of 10 points
Troy Lee Designs Descent Jacket
- Price 249 Euro >> available here
- Weight / pack size / size¹ 426 grams / 1.6 litres / L
- Material Polyester; 3L
- Equipment Adjustable hood; slit pockets; stretch sleeve cuffs; drawstring; reflective
- Fit Short sleeves; medium-length but wide torso; plenty of freedom of movement
Conclusion: The Troy Lee Designs Descent Jacket in the test
Simply equipped rain jacket with a casual cut. Due to the short sleeves and the tight-fitting hood (over the helmet), the larger version is more suitable in case of doubt. Then the rear reaches over the trouser waistband. Despite good vapour permeability values, the Descent quickly becomes sweaty - there is no ventilation option. The drawstrings are not very intuitive to use. In the Suter test, water penetrated through the seams and seam knots.
Valuation
Weather protection (35 %)
4 out of 10 points
Body climate (25 %)
7 out of 10 points
Weight¹ / pack size (20 %)
6 out of 10 points
Equipment / function (20 %)
7 out of 10 points
All rain jackets in the 2023 test: Points in the overview
Stefan Frey
Editor
