Rapha and Paul Smith launch new jacket

The Rapha + Paul Smith collection kicked off earlier in the autumn with a merino jersey and several accessories, and the final piece in the line-up, the Rain Jacket, is now on sale.

The jacket is made from a waterproof fabric that, we’re told, has a breathable membrane and the seams are fully taped to stop the rain getting through. We’ve not ridden in one but we’ve had our paws all over the goods and can tell you that it’s pretty lightweight.

You get high-visibility cuff adjusters with neoprene inner cuffs, a durable-looking waterproof storm tail that zips away, and an off-set front zip with a chinguard up top to avoid any scratching. It comes with two zipped front pockets, an inner chest pocket, plus a light-hanger loop around the back. There’s even a little pink pouch for storing it away.

Paul Smith himself famously hoped to be a road racer before an accident put an end to his ambition, and the guys at Rapha tell us he had direct input into the collaboration between the two labels.

The Rain Jacket, which is available in black and purple, isn’t cheap, though. It’ll cost you £270 from www.rapha.cc.