​Leatt HydraDri 6.0 review: This lightweight MTB rain jacket won’t leave you out in the rain

Conclusion by Max Fuchs, BIKE test editor

Lightweight, waterproof, flexible – the Leatt HydraDri 6.0 Performed impressively across the board in the test. It has a sporty fit, feels almost like a second skin and remains reliably waterproof even in pouring rain. Added to this are its compact pack size and clever details such as the magnetically fastened hood. 359 euros is a lot of money, but in our test the jacket gave us no reason to question the price: A definite thumbs-up.

Key facts about the Leatt HydraDri 6.0

• Weight: 326 g in size M, BIKE measurement
• Water column: 15,000 mm
• Breathability: 70,000 g/m²
• Material: HydraDri Air+ 3-layer fabric
• Stretch: mechanical 2-way stretch without elastane
• Hood: Ride Adaptive Hood (RAhD) with magnetic system
• Packed dimensions: can be compressed to roughly the size of a 0.75-litre water bottle
• Facilities: adjustable cuffs, elasticated waistband, reinforced Deflextion elbows, reflective details
• ​Price: 359 euros RRP >> Available here at a reduced price

Light as a feather and with a sporty cut

There are plenty of reliably waterproof rain jackets out there. On a bike, however, many feel stiff and heavy and restrict your movement – almost like a suit of armour, rather than a second skin. The HydraDri 6.0 does exactly the opposite.

In size M, the jacket has a comfortably sporty fit on someone who is 173 centimetres tall and of a slender build. It hugs the body without feeling tight or restricting movement. This is made possible by the feather-light, flexible outer fabric. The mechanical 2-way stretch does not rely on elastane, but instead integrates the stretch directly into the fabric structure. This ensures smooth movement whilst also enhancing shape retention and durability.

The cut is also well suited to cycling. The back is a comfortably long cut and provides reliable protection against splashes whilst seated. Thanks to the elasticated waistband, the jacket either falls well over the bottom or fits snugly around the hips. The sleeves can also be secured tightly at the wrists using extra-secure Velcro fastenings.

Soaked in the constant rain

But whatever the fit, at the end of the day a rain jacket must be one thing above all else: waterproof!

The HydraDri 6.0 impresses in this respect too. Even when cycling in pouring rain, no water penetrates from the outside. So far, so good. But the real highlight is that, despite its weather resistance, it’s also breathable. After all, even the best rain protection is of no use if you end up swimming in your own sweat underneath it.

The fact that the Leatt jacket manages this balancing act is also in keeping with its technical design. Leatt combines the HydraDri-Air+ membrane with a water column rating of 15,000 millimetres and a stated breathability of 70,000 g/m². It is precisely this high breathability that is said to make the crucial difference compared to traditional, tightly sealed rain jackets. Our test confirms this.

A hood in a class of its own

The Ride Adaptive Hood, or RAhD for short, is one of the cleverest features of the HydraDri 6.0.

The large hood fits easily over a MTB helmet. An elasticated drawstring secures it firmly and prevents it from slipping off your head in headwinds or when riding. The visor provides reliable protection from the rain, though it could be a little longer to offer perfect weather protection. In heavy rain, water can get into the helmet’s front ventilation slots.

The magnetic system works even better. If you don’t need the hood, you can simply attach it to the back of the jacket. The magnet holds it securely in place and prevents it from flapping about annoyingly. The solution seems simple, but proves to be extremely practical when out on the bike.

Compact to pack, great for protection against the elements

The HydraDri 6.0 also scores highly when it comes to pack size. The jacket can be crumpled up into a small bundle, roughly the size of a 0.75-litre water bottle. Weighing in at 326 grams in size M, its weight is also a plus. Anyone who’s ever packed a heavy hardshell because of a poor weather forecast, only for it to end up taking up half their rucksack, will quickly appreciate this feature.

Well-thought-out details for cycling

Leatt does not limit itself to a high-performance membrane. Reinforced Deflextion elbow pads are designed to protect the Achilles heel of rain jackets in the event of a fall and to enhance durability. Fortunately, they have not yet had to prove their tear resistance in testing.

The Velcro fastenings at the wrists provide a secure grip and allow for precise adjustment. The elasticated waistband sits securely. Reflective strips improve visibility in low light conditions.

None of it feels like a superfluous gimmick. The features focus on details that actually make a difference on the bike.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages

• Very light weight
• High level of weather protection
• Excellent breathability
• Sporty, close-fitting cut
• Mechanical 2-way stretch without elastane
• Great freedom of movement
• Large, helmet-compatible hood
• Clever magnetic hood fastening
• Very compact when packed away
• Long back cut
• Reinforced elbows
• Reflective elements

Disadvantages

• Expensive at 359 euros
• The Kapuzenvisier could be delayed