Skip to main content

Pearl Izumi PRO Softshell 180 jacket


THIS IS ANOTHER jacket that feels a touch short when standing but is the perfect length on the bike. Gripper on the back hem ensures that stays in place too.

The PRO Softshell is built for protection – the neck is high and sits properly in place when riding rather than sliding down, and the fabric feels substantial, with a brushed inner surface. This jacket proved itself when we chose it for some icier starts. Because it has lighter thermal panels on the arms and back it can feel cold when you start out, but once you get going this translates into good breathability and as long as you’re working it maintains a comfortable temperature.

We like the double rear pocket arrangement and the fact this softshell rides lighter than it is.

Price 210$


Popular posts from this blog

ENVE M50 29" Wheels

Utah based company ENVE have been making drool-worthy carbon components for some years now. Despite the fact that carbon rims are becoming more and more common on mountain bikes these days, you can guarantee that ENVE wheels will be a talking point when someone is eyeing off a steed. Instantly, the big bold logos on each rim scream "fast", "light" and to some extent, "expensive" The kids call this 'bling'.

Merida Big Seven 100

We've rolled up to our local woods, with a meandering blue trail, some natural wooded tracks and a bit of fire road chucked into the mix to see how the Big Seven 100 tackles trails that entry-level riders are likely to cut their teeth on.

CANYON NERVE AL 8.0

  S ince their entry into the UK market a few years ago, Canyon have made a name for themselves as purveyors of well-made bikes that exhibit often extraordinary value. The secret (or catch, depending on your point of view) is that the brand don’t have dealers – they ship bikes directly to your door.

GT Zaskar Evolution

While some bike models last just a couple of years, others change with the times to stay at the top of riders’ wishlists. In the second part of this series looking at the evolution of bikes that enjoy enduring popularity with UK riders, we turn to the GT Zaskar – a bike that was at the forefront of our sport for a long time and still has plenty of appeal today.

DRC X-Monitor SP1 lap timer

While smartphone apps such as Strava can be a useful way to keep tabs on your mountain bike rides, sometimes you just can’t beat the simplicity and instant feedback that a good old-fashioned stopwatch style lap timer provides.