Bontrager’s Starvos is a hybrid jacket/jersey that combines windproof panels on the front and arms with a lighter, more breathable knit at the back. This is a tried and tested approach that keeps wind and light rain off where it matters, so you’re protected in bad weather and from the chill of descents, but allows heat to dissipate faster than a jacket made wholly from softshell material. While the cut is relaxed enough that you can add insulating midlayers, we found it was warm enough to work fine on frosty mornings with just a baselayer underneath. The longer back is very jersey-like, with an elasticated hem and gripper and three open pockets, and the cuffs are elasticated too. More of a beefedup jersey than a jacket, the S1 is well priced and good for crisp, dry days, but not as capable as others here.
Weight 473g
Price $135