dhb market their Sync Ladies Waterproof jacket as a multipurpose jacket to be worn on and off the bike. The thing that dominated my testing of this jacket is that it retails for £55 which even before I put it on seemed a really good price compared to other jackets out there.   

Based in Hampshire, dhb is sold exclusively through the on-line retailer Wiggle.

It’s a really robust jacket with some great features not dissimilar to those you see on some high end walking and cycling kit. It features two big side pockets and a small chest pocket, a nice big hood and ventilation zips under the arms – I didn’t use the pockets much on the bike but they were great when walking.

The finish is really neat with subtle logos, concealed seams and tags on the zips. The styling is more technical-mountain wear than urban-chic so perhaps not the right jacket if you favour form over function. It only comes in black and has just two small reflective patches on the back which means that it’s not great for visibility which is a drawback if you want to wear it to commute.

The jacket is not particularly fitted which is great for sticking lots of layers on underneath but it does make it feel a bit wide when you’re on the bike – quite a different cut to the slim-fit dhb Dare jersey which I tested at the same time.

It’s a good length in the back although has oddly short sleeves which leaves your bottom layer sticking out at your wrists. This was fine when wearing the jacket off the bike but is a bit of a drawback when cycling as you risk getting soggy wrists.

The hood is not detachable and although I wouldn’t normally chose to ride with a hood it actually didn’t bother me and kept my neck dry and warm.

The jacket performed really well in the wind and rain and has kept me warm and dry whilst riding and walking – I really can’t fault its performance in bad weather. It is a full-on winter jacket though so doesn’t really fold up small to stick in the bottom of your bag but if you know the weather will be bad this is the jacket to wear.

In the process of writing this review I’ve found out that this particular jacket is being discontinued and replaced with 2014 stock.  There are no details at present but I do hope that dhb produce something similar (perhaps with longer sleeves and in different colours…hint hint) although if you are a size 10 and like black I’d snap up one of the 2013 version just in case they don’t.

Verdict

An amazingly robust waterproof jacket for the price.  It has one or two downsides but given the price they can be easily ignored.

PROS

– A good performing waterproof jacket at a great price
– Nice finish and features such as pockets and vents

CONS

– Only comes in black
– Short sleeves might leave you with soggy wrists
– Non-detachable hood

Price: RRP £79.99, currently on sale for £55.99
Size: Only size 10 currently available
More info and available from: Wiggle

Interested in more dhb MTB kit? Check out our reviews of their ladies Dyno Baggy MTB Shorts, and their Dare Longsleeve Thermal Jersey.

What dhb say about the Ladies Sync Waterproof Jacket:

The Sync is a breathable storm jacket with maximum rain protection and refined looks, It’s the only jacket you need over the course off your day, ideal for both on and off the bike. The understated matt tones and reflective detailing fit perfectly into any travelling environment, providing an alternative to the classic styling of more conventional cycling jackets.

 The clean lines are inspired by technical mountain wear – which shares a need for robust weather protection, without compromising freedom of movement. The seams are strategically placed to eliminate abrasion and pressure points when carrying a rucksack or messenger bag.

The cut is longer than a conventional cycling jacket to ensure you have effective waterproof coverage when you’re off the bike and the fit accommodates thermal layers in cold conditions or your regular clothing on short trips. The sleeves are tapered to allow layering at the upper arm without excess fabric at the forearm. Adjustable cuffs provide a seal against the winter elements. When temperatures rise, unzip the under-arm vents for cool air circulation.
Make use of the peaked hood to dash through the downpours and rest assured that your essentials are safe and dry in zip pockets with storm flaps; a secure zip pocket on the chest is included for your valuables.