dhb market this jacket as a “lightweight and versatile softshell cycling jacket…. Perfect for changing weather conditions”. I’ve found it to be pretty bang on this description and it’s become staple item for me over the spring and early summer.
It has wind and waterproof properties to keep you warm and protect you from light showers and I’ve found that it’s offered me sufficient warmth on cooler days or early morning commutes when worn over a base layer.
On the other end of the spectrum, the sleeves are removable so it can be worn as a gilet. Generally I think jacket/gilet combos are a bit of a waste of time as I find something thick enough to be a jacket is too thick to be a gilet. But the weight of the Switch achieves a good balance between these two and I’ve worn it a lot as a gilet over a short sleeved jersey without having a body that is too hot or arms that are too cold. I’ve not converted the jacket to a gilet mid-ride but wonder where I would stow the arms if I did. This wouldn’t be a problem if you have a bag with you but the pocket isn’t big enough to accommodate the sleeves once you’ve taken them off.
My only criticism of the jacket is that the material isn’t as breathable as it might be and although I haven’t felt sweaty as such there’s a noticeable dampness when I’ve taken it off and a couple of times I’ve stopped on a ride and noticed getting cool reasonably quickly. It’s not bad, it just could be better.
The jacket has a good fit with long back and sleeves, and shaped elbows all of which keeps the cuffs in the right place when you’re riding. It has a usefully sized rear pocket in which I can get my spares and tubes, and a breast pocket which nicely fits my keys and phone. It looks smart in black but as I wear it for commuting I’d rather have it in a bright colour and possibly more reflective material. As most dhb kit it’s well priced particularly given its versatility.
PROS
Adaptable to suit changing weather
Good fit
Useful pockets
CONS
A bit sweaty
No colour choice
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