Rapha

Classic Softshell Jacket

A big part of what makes the Rapha Classic Softshell Jacket so great is that the Softshell material is soft and comfortable in addition to being totally windproof. For wet days, it will shed a light rain without complaint though it doesn't have sealed seams and would eventually yield to the elements in an outright deluge. Nevertheless, an inclement weather flap can be unfurled to cover the back of your shorts should you get out on wet roads after a storm. This extension has a large, reflective Rapha logo that offers a measure of security when the light is low.

The zipper is offset to the right of center and nestles into a cozy dock at the top, sparing your sensitive neck skin from a pinch or abrasion when you're fully zipped. But when you get too warm, the collar has a bite patch directly underneath the chin to make one-handed unzipping easier. If the main zipper doesn't offer enough ventilation for you, you can reach for the pit zips under both arms. The wrists have an ingenious detail hidden behind the elastic cuffs. On the coldest days when you want to avoid any skin exposure, a thumb stirrup can be unrolled and hooked over your digits to anchor the sleeves in place before you pull on your gloves.

On the back, there are three deep pockets. The right pocket has smaller zip pocket on the outside, a perfect resting place for an iPod or phone. There's a buttonhole inside the pocket which leads through the larger pocket to the jersey and then there are small loops up the side seam leading to the shoulder so the earphones will stay with the jacket and never get caught up in layers underneath. The middle pocket also hides a narrow pocket inside, perfect for a mini-pump so that it doesn't shift around and angle uncomfortably across your back.

To maintain the casual appearance, Rapha uses reflective piping that isn't the shiny light grey that we're used to. Instead it's a subtle black detail on the shoulders and wrists until light hits it. Then it reflects so you can be seen. There's a rubberized pad on the left shoulder for a bag strap. It offers some comfort and traction to help keep the bag in place as you ride.

The Rapha Classic Softshell Jacket is heavy on features, but there's at least one more we should mention -- a small hidden pocket on the left front of the jacket. It's just right for a couple of gels or keys as there's a sewn in loop inside. And, as a finishing touch, there's a pinstriped band on the left sleeve, complete with an embroidered Rapha logo. The Classic Softshell Jacket is available in Black and Grey and comes five sizes from Small to XX-Large.