Kit review: D2D Coldstop II Softshell Winter Jacket
Reviewed by Steph
Love cycling in the winter but struggle with the cold? This warm jacket from D2D cycle clothing might be the one for you!
FEATURES:
This is a softshell jacket, meaning it's windproof and water resistant (aka will keep you dry in a shower but might not if you're out in rain all day). It's incredibly warm, meant for cold to freezing weather, whilst still being breathable. It's got three good size rear pockets that are perfect for a phone or snacks, adjustable cuffs on the sleeves and a nice high neck to stop cold drafts. It's also got reflective elements on the rear to help keep you visible on your bike.
SIZE AND FIT:
The jacket goes up to a 4XL+, which according to the size chart is a size 22 and a 46-47 inch chest. I'm a 45-46 inch chest, but aware my hip measurement is 51 inches, I spoke to D2D and they recommended the 4XL over the 3XL. It fits perfectly - I might have fitted into the size smaller but it'd have been really tight, and this is definitely the more comfortable fit for me. The jacket is stretchy, but is also quite thick as it's a winter jacket, so the stretch is more limited compared to a thinner jacket. The sleeves and overall body length are great on me, with a longer length at the back, and most importantly it doesn't ride up when I cycle.
PERFORMANCE:
I've worn this jacket a lot over the past few months - on shorter 5 mile rides to work, but also on 25 mile longer loops. It's performed really well on both of them and has become a winter staple. I've worn it in temperatures that have gone down to zero and stayed toasty warm with minimal layers underneath (a merino layer for shorter rides, and a mesh base layer on longer rides) and I've also not found myself getting overly sweaty - being able to unzip the front means I can cool down on ascents and then zip back up at the top. I would struggle to wear this without overheating on warmer days, but it's designed for cold to freezing temperatures and it does what it says on the tin! All in all, an excellent value item for anyone wanting to keep warm when cycling over winter.
RRP £56.99
