swrve windbreaker

This understated lightweight windbreaker from Swrve is the ideal garment to have stowed away in your saddle pack for when the weather inevitably changes or you decide to stop off at the pub on the return leg of extended bike ride.

It's polyester construction does a good job of defending you from the wind and will keep you warm on your bike as long as you are putting the effort in. The material isn't too breathable but there are small mesh vents under the arm pits and one at the neck to help let some body vapour escape but they are more of a token effort - if you are really pushing it things can get a little 'boil in the bag'. Mind you the likelihood is that you'll have used the full length double zip at the front, which can be opened from the top or the bottom, to help regulate your heat well before things get uncomfortable. That double zip also helps reduce zip malfunctions which often happens when single zips snag on the zip cover. The 2 zippered pockets are mesh lined so could be used for extra ventilation if you open them up.

This is a packable windproof, not a waterproof, its resistance to water is what you might expect from a company coming from LA, it can handle a light shower that a good British summer day will throw at you but anything heavy or prolonged will make this jacket look like it is made of cling film. The fit is fashionably slim but not figure hugging and there is plenty of free arm movement that you don't actually notice wearing it plus the sleeves are long enough not to ride up your arm when your hands are on the bars.

The cycling cut extends to the back of the jacket which is a little lower to stop the spray from your rear wheel filling up your bum cleft [thanks for that - ed] plus it will keep that part covered when you are wearing your low slung jeans, you will be wearing low slung jeans won't you? The asymmetrical front zip goes up at a slight diagonal which is a great idea for those with a hairy chin so your beard doesn't get caught up in the zipper. Only a small label below the right pocket gives away its identity.

Available in gold, charcoal grey and cobalt blue. Sizes S, M and L.

Verdict

A stylish, lightweight, windbreaker that you can wear on and off the bike in fair weather and can easily be stuffed into a saddle bag.