Rapha Hardshell vs Pro Team Softshell

bendertherobot wrote:

The hardshell sizes normally. But size up for getting a layer underneath. I had one and it was excellent. Very waterproof and breathable. But not for tempo rides. Better, IMO, as a commuter.

I've just got a Madison Apex Race jacket which is lighter but which I prefer. And cheaper.

Do NOT get the Pro Team Softshell. The only disappointing Rapha product I ever bought. Not as water "proof" as the Gabba. And freezing when wet. Absolutely freezing.

Nice one, thanks. Yeah, I went with the Hardshell over the Pro Team Softshell in the end, and I don't think I'll need both. For the "summer" (if you can call it that here) I think I'll be looking at the Gabba.

rjfrussell wrote:

I have the rapha hardshell-  genuinely waterproof and surprisingly breatheable.  I think the truth is that if it is raining hard and you are riding hard you are always going to be a bit damp, either from rain getting in, or sweat getting out.  The hardshell is very good if you tend toward the latter, not the former.  As I think you should if it is cold as well as wet.

Excellent, thank you. Think I'm going to give the Hardshell a try. At least they have them in stock. What's the sizing like?

BBRAP wrote:

I have a hardshell and a softshell (not the specific makes though).  The hardshell is fine if its raining hard for a ride of up to about an hour. After that it gets very boil in the bag (more clammy than boily I would say) if you are going at any pace. I tend to ride a bit slower when its raining as I spend most of my time just trying to stay upright.  The softshell is great for keeping warm but only keeps the rain at bay for a very limited period. If I get caught out in a downpour I keep going, stopping once it has got wet is pretty horrible as it seems to chill down rather quickly.  Being a soft east anglian and not having to experience Scottish winters I'd probably work out some sort of layering system with a fully waterproof outer for the nasty stuff.

Yeah, I've currently got a lightweight rain jacket (dhb eVent) that I can stuff into the large back pocket of a jersey. But it's a bit annoying and doesn't leave me with space for other things in there.

So I was looking for something I can wear instead of the Winter Jersey - something warm yet breathable, but also offering rain protection. The Pro Team Softshell seemed to fit the bill at first, but I'm not sure it's warm enough. The Rapha Hardshell seems to be good for temperatures down to the low single digits or even lower according to various reviews, but I'm not sure if it's as good in the rain as the Pro Team Softshell which has been made specifically for that.

Maybe I just get both.