KIT REVIEW : Showers Pass Century CC Cycling waterproof jacket
Reviewed by Steph
A lightweight cycling waterproof is a useful item, both for commuting in the city but also for longer bike touring trips. This jacket from Showers Pass is a good option for both.
FEATURES
This is a 2.5 layer waterproof jacket made from 44% recycled Nylon. This particular version is made from a bright and reflective fabric, but all the colourways have reflective strips in it. It’s cut to be longer at the back (which is what you need when cycling to keep your bum dry when leaning forwards), and a useful chest pocket and small pocket on the back of the jacket. It also really usefully has ventilation zips in the armpits and a back vent that definitely help stop you overheat. The main zip does up snugly around my neck without being overly tight, but stops rain coming in at the top.
SIZE AND FIT
I’m wearing the XXXL which is the current largest size, and which a few of their jackets are available in. The size chart says a 46-50 inch chest, 46-49 inch waist and 52-55 inch hip. I’m a 45 inch chest, 41 inch waist and 51 inch hip and this jacket is snug on me. There’s a bit of space around my chest, but it’s snug around my hips and I’m not sure it’d fit much larger than me (it might depend on your shape - I’m tall and hold my weight on my belly so the bottom of the jacket is round my widest point.
PERFORMANCE
This is a really well designed and well made jacket. I like the extra length at the back (even though I’m quite tall and long in the body) and it kept my back and bum in some really quite torrential downpours. The jacket as a whole is also very waterproof and proved its worth in some rainy rides. Like most waterproofs, it can get a bit sweaty inside if you’re really exerting yourself, but it’s better than other waterproof jackets I’ve tried and the vents really helped reduce the sweatiness (I run hot, especially cycling up hills!). It’s also pretty lightweight and packs up small, which makes it perfect for longer bike rides and trips where weight and space factor in more.
RRP £119
