Raining outside? Talking yourself out of that bike ride? Rapha may just have the solution.
When it comes to layers, it is important to think it through. Rain jackets usually make you sweat and so you get wet anyway. Not the case with Rapha’s Women’s Rain Jacket. Breathable underarm panels and light, it does the job perfectly.
Rapha’s Women’s Rain Jacket stood up to Scottish rain with style. Taped seams make it better at repelling the rain. It also has a built in discreet zip pocket on the rear, located on the left hand side waist for any valuables. There’s also the standard Rapha reflective armband that we’ve come to expect of their designs. It comes in chartreuse or purple and the chartreuse is really high visibility.
Usually a 12 (a Rapha medium), I sized up to a large for this jacket knowing it would be going over layers for winter riding, otherwise I would have got my normal size.
The rain jacket packs away to a very compact size and can be stored in the rear pocket of your cycle jersey, in case it rains. I found this particularly useful on long rides, it made it a very convenient item to have with me.
Rapha are well known for their sleek design, and the rain jacket not only performs well, it looks good too. Tailored to women, it is a great fit over my frame and has room for you move. The cuffs are a soft material and they are tight enough that no rain can sneak up them.
The website says that the zips are waterproof and this is very true! Caught in a sudden downpour, my top half was left bone dry and not one drop of rain made it through.
Verdict
Finally, a rain jacket that lets sweat out and keeps the rain out too! Don’t let the price put you off, it’s an investment. Something small enough you can keep it on you at all times, even when not wearing it.
Pros
– Lightweight
– Breathable
– Reflective armband for visibility
Cons
– True to size, but if you want to layer up, get a size bigger.
Colours: Chartreuse (yellow) or Purple
Price: £190
More information: Rapha
UK supplier: Rapha
What Rapha says about Women’s Rain Jacket
Waterproof, lightweight and breathable, the Women’s Rain Jacket has been developed to provide the optimum balance of protection and comfort when cycling in wet conditions.
– Tailored for female riders
– Waterproof front and rear panels
– Breathable side panels
– Lightweight and packable
– Waterproof zips
– Taped seams on shoulders and upper arms
– Offset front zip for comfort
– Reflective armband
