What waterproof /windproof for a long tour...

[The Hungry Cyclist]

Hi all and welcome to December - how did that happen?

Back on the web looking into getting hold of waterproof windproof jacket for a long tour of North and South America in May.

The range of climates I'll be riding through is going to be pretty varied but it's hard to find out the best jacket for the job so I thought I would run it past you lot...

(I'm also hoping my purchase will keep me warm for some winter riding in the UK over the next few months.)

Jackets I've looked at so far are as follows - on CTC shop.

Gill Rapid Wind Brake Jacket
Altura Phase 400 2004
Gore Vision Jacket - are removable sleeves good?

Any suggestions of shops/sites would be most welcome as want to buy in the next few days.

Thanks again for you time

Tom

We have to eat so we might as well enjoy it...



The Hungry Cyclist

www.thehungrycyclist.com

Pedaling the world for the perfect meal...

[Chris]

Try wiggle, I beleive they have a jacket with special offer on the front page that I may well purchase, but there is aslo a huge amount of other jackest and equipment.

[CJ]

I've reckon Freestyle Sports make the probably the best waterproofs for cycling - and not the most expensive. Of their current range the Storm looks optimum for touring.

[Diesel]

I strongly dislike wearing waterproofs but sometimes you simply need to to stay warm.....I've been using a Paramo smock-style top recently.
Pros.. 1) They keep you dry and 2) they are soooo comfortable to wear I find I wear it even when its dry.
Cons.. = 1)not cheap 2) slightly heavy compared to v. lightweight gear 3) Warm( But I overheat really easily) On tours the weight is offset as it is so comfortable it can be used as a 'normal' warm top.
Something to consider, anyway.
Diesel

[Rob]

I agree with the comments re Paramo. I got the Cuzco jacket last November and have been very impressed. I will be interested to see how warm I get using it against summer rains - I also tend to overheat.

[Andy Tallis]

I'm currently en route to North cape with a Gill pro speed jacket (120 quid.) Very good and light but I still get hot sometimes so a lightweight winbreaker is useful too.

DON'T buy a cheap waterproof though. In my experience they just don't work.