Skip to main content

Madison Flux Super Light Waterproof Softshell jacket


Madison’s softshell has some well-designed details that usually come on more expensive styles, such as gripper print on the shoulders to keep pack straps in place and a fastening for the adjustable over/under peaked hood so that you can roll it up when not in use. We liked the fabric too – it’s so lightweight you don’t feel like you’re wearing it, but adds the right amount of warmth and windproofing, and is pretty breathable. Longer at the back, the jacket keeps you well covered and the fit is relaxed enough for layering but not overly baggy. There are underarm vent holes and two zipped chest pockets. The water-resistant main zip is heavy in relation to the fabric, though, and makes the front of the jacket sag down when you’re in the riding position.

Weight 240g

Price $195

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'.

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.

Scott Stego MIPS helmet

Scott’s top-end aggressive trail helmet is only available with MIPS, as the Swiss brand were early adopters of the system. The EPS extends low at the rear without clashing with the retention system and the strap attachment points are external to the liner, maximising the amount of material around the temples. This is the closest-fitting helmet on test, with very little clearance inside the liner. Despite this, and although the Stego has fewer vents than some other lids here, we never felt too hot-headed. Scott spent time developing the ventilation system using a wind tunnel and it seems to have paid off. The thin pads don’t offer quite as much comfort as some competitors’, and while the short peak is removable, it doesn’t offer any height adjustment. Weight 340g Sizing S, M, L Price $180

SANTA CRUZ NOMAD

Santa Cruz’s new enduro focused dream bike While the Santa Cruz Bronson has been causing a commotion on the enduro scene as one of the lighter and more capable bikes, the Californian company have been working on something better suited to the more gravity orientated courses.

Fulcrum Red Power XL wheels

THESE WHEELS CERTAINLY don't look like some of the cheapest on test, and the adjustable-preload bearings are some of the smoothest and longest lived at any price.