The best commuter cycling jackets will strike a good balance between price and practicality. The reality is that you may need more than one commuter cycling jacket, perhaps a showerproof one for the spring and summer and a waterproof, windproof, and potentially insulated one for the winter.
What features do you need in a winter commuter cycling jacket?
- Waterproof. Not shower proof, waterproof. If you can’t afford Goretex (most of us can’t), look for a waterproof rating of 10,000mm for the winter as shown in the table below. If you can’t find thee rating, you could ask the if they could give you a cup of water to pour over to test it’s water resistance. You should see the water roll off the jacket and not sit on it. Any remaining water should form small water beads, rather than soaking into the jacket.
| Rating | Resistance | Weather |
| 0 – 1,500mm | Water resistant / Snowproof | Very light rain |
| 1,500mm – 5,000mm | Waterproof | Light to average rain |
| 5,000mm | Very Waterproof | Moderate to heavy rain |
| 10,000mm | Highly Waterproof | Heavy rain |
- Generous fit. Avoid the racing style slim fit because you may need to fit some more bulky work clothes under it or add some additional insulation on cold, wet days.
- Reflective. Ensure the commuter contains reflect strips so you can be seen at night. Select a bright colour that is in contrast to your typical setting you can be easily picked out in the day time amongst fast-moving traffic.
- Breathable Fabric. Waterproof jackets can get hot as they trap heat, creating a boil in the bag effect.If you can afford it, buy a more expensive commuter cycling jacket made from breathable fabric. At the very least ensure the jacket has some kind of ventilation and an inner mesh lining which help to keep you cool and dry.
5 Best Commuter Cycling Jackets

