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review

7Mesh Oro Jacket

9
£249.00

VERDICT:

9
10
Stunning performance from a super-lightweight waterproof that offers superb breathability
Weight: 
93g
Contact: 
www.7meshinc.com

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The 7Mesh Oro jacket might be expensive but it keeps the rain out, it's super-lightweight and it takes up an incredibly small amount of space in a jersey pocket. To give you fair warning, in a little while I'm going to describe the Gore Active fabric from which it's made as a 'game changer'. Yup. Prepare yourself.

Last year, Dave reviewed the Gore Bike Wear One Active Bike Jacket which is also made from Gore Active (the clue's in the name) and he described it as 'far and away the best lightweight waterproof jacket I've ever tested.'

> Find your nearest dealer here

I'll follow suit: the Oro is easily the best lightweight waterproof that I've ever tested, and the Gore Active fabric takes a lot of the credit for that.

Traditional Gore-Tex fabrics are three layer. You have a face fabric, usually treated with a durable water repellent (DWR), the Gore-Tex membrane, and then the lining. In between them are layers of glue.

Gore says that its Active technology eliminates the need for a face fabric so it can be used to produce the lightest and most breathable Gore-Tex products available. You know the outer layer of most waterproof jackets? The bit that's usually coloured? That's the bit that's missing from the 7Mesh Oro.

7Mesh Oro Jacket - chest.jpg

This is a two-ply construction with the Gore-Tex membrane sitting outermost. That's why the outside of this jacket looks so unusual. The lightweight lining that sits on the inside is integrated with the Gore-Tex membrane without the need for a glue layer (which affects breathability).

7Mesh Oro Jacket - shoulders.jpg

What's the point to all this?

'Gore-Tex Active products durably protect against wind and rain and reduce sweat accumulation in high aerobic activities,' says Gore. 'Uniquely designed, the technology eliminates the face fabric, preventing absorption of water in order to maintain comfort in high aerobic activities. Garments will retain these attributes during use, wearers will not experience the chilling effect that can result from a wetted out face fabric, and the garment drys out fast. The excellent balance of protection and comfort allows the wearer to leave the garment on – rain or shine.'

And do you know what? It's true. We're used to manufacturer's exaggeration, hyperbole and downright BS, but this is straight up truth.

7Mesh Oro Jacket - detail.jpg

I've worn the Oro in the rain a whole load of times over the past few months, most memorably on a ride in Italy where a couple of cyclists had to get bussed home for fear of getting hypothermia (really), and the results have been superb. If anyone's in danger of getting hypothermia it's usually me, but rain hasn't once got through the fabric or through the internally taped seams. You almost expect water to get in because the jacket is so lightweight, but it doesn't.

I guess you could say that a polythene bag is lightweight and keeps water out but one of the most impressive features of the Gore-Tex Active fabric is its level of breathability. Gore says that's down to the lack of that face fabric and layers of glue. You really notice the breathability when it stops raining. I usually whip a waterproof off as soon as the rain lets up so that I don't get too sweaty in there. Here, though, I've been able to keep it on and say comfortable, even when the temperature is up to about 14°C. I've started carrying the Oro rather than a windproof even on days when it's not likely to rain because it's waaaaay more breathable than I expected. It's a revelation as far as breathability is concerned, and if you do want to take it off when the rain stops, a quick shake and it's almost completely dry.

7Mesh Oro Jacket - hem.jpg

The other thing you need to know about the fabric is just how light it is. This jacket hit the road.cc Scales of Truth at 93g which, in a stunning deviation from the norm, is exactly the manufacturer's claimed weight. That's crazy light. Admittedly, saving 100g, 200g or whatever on a waterproof probably isn't going to get you to the café stop a whole lot quicker but it does mean there's less weight dragging your rear pockets out of shape when the jacket is tucked away... and it really does tuck away. Folded up into its own stuff pocket, the Oro is about as large as a couple of Snickers bars.

So, there you go: Gore-Tex Active is a game changer (I did warn you).

> Buyer's Guide: 11 of the best packable windproofs

Any negatives about it? Well, the lack of a face fabric does leave the membrane more exposed to damage. Our review jacket is still in perfect nick but I guess you could catch it on foliage overhanging the road or on a multi-tool in your pocket so it would pay to be careful. It's not going to tear as soon as it's within sight of a bramble but my impression is that it's not the toughest material in the world.

So far I've concentrated on the fabric but the jacket itself is also top notch. For a start there's the cut; it's slim and I like that. Both the body and the sleeves sit close so they don't flap as soon as you hit a descent (don't get me started on jackets that flap) and the collar is close-fitting too. There's no stretch in the fabric so you need to be doubly sure that you buy the right size. Thankfully, 7Mesh has a size chart on its website. The chest actually feels tight on me when I'm standing upright, but as soon as I'm on the bike with my arms reaching forward, it's spot on.

7Mesh Oro Jacket - riding.jpg

The tail is slightly dropped although there are other jackets out there that offer more protection from road spray back there. The full-length front zip is reverse coil and water resistant with a puller that's easy to grab even with gloved fingers. There are no pockets aside from that stuff pocket I mentioned (on a 93g jacket? You're having a laugh), but you do get two vents on the back that allow you to reach through to your jersey pockets. The raw edge hem is reflective, although it doesn't look reflective in daylight, and the chest and back logos are reflective too.

7Mesh Oro Jacket - pocket.jpg

You can tell that I like this jacket, then! I'm pretty sure I've never written 1,000 words on a waterproof before. If you're after something that's going to stand up to years of abuse, perhaps this isn't the option for you. But if you want a minimalist, lightweight waterproof with loads of breathability, this is superb.

Verdict

Stunning performance from a super-lightweight waterproof that offers superb breathability

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road.cc test report

Make and model: 7Mesh Oro Jacket

Size tested: Medium

Tell us what the jacket is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

It's a super-lightweight, highly breathable waterproof jacket in a sporty cut.

7Mesh says, "French aviator and adventurer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry once declared 'perfection is achieved not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away." While Saint-Exupéry is better known for flying rather than riding, we know his impeccable design sensibilities align perfectly with the new 7mesh Oro Jacket.

"Built from revolutionary Gore-Tex Active fabric with Shakedry technology, the Oro easily achieves a previously unheard-of milestone: a truly waterproof breathable jacket that cracks the 100-gram barrier. We chose the lightest, most breathable fabric Gore-Tex offers. Then we paired it with intricate patterning to reduce seam bulk, a direct-laminated zipper innovated in partnership with our suppliers, a welded raw hem edge, 360-degree reflectivity, and multipurpose vents and pocket. The resulting package weighs in at an incredible 93 grams, size medium."

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the jacket?

7Mesh lists these features:

* Pass-through vent that allow access to jersey pockets

* Built-in stuff/storage pocket

* Raw edge hem with 360 degree reflectivity

* 8mm finish taped seams

* Reflective logo

Rate the jacket for quality of construction:
 
9/10

It sits very well when you're in your riding position. I've put the jacket through the washing machine several times and the seam taping hasn't bubbled or puckered.

Rate the jacket for performance:
 
9/10

It's a minimalist design, but that's the idea. It keeps the rain out and the level of breathability is superb.

Rate the jacket for durability:
 
6/10

The lack of a face (outer) fabric (to drop the weight and improve breathability) means that the Gore-Tex Active membrane is exposed. You will have to be more careful than with most other jackets in order to avoid damage.

Rate the jacket for waterproofing, based on the manufacturer's rating:
 
9/10
Rate the jacket for breathability, based on the manufacturer's rating:
 
9/10
Rate the jacket for fit:
 
9/10

There's not much spare fabric here! It's cut slim in both the body and arms – in fact, I don't think I've ever known such close-fitting sleeves. I'm cool with that, but just be warned.

Rate the jacket for sizing:
 
8/10

I sometimes take a medium, more often a large. I took a medium here.

Rate the jacket for weight:
 
10/10

It's the lightest waterproof I've ever used by a distance.

Rate the jacket for comfort:
 
8/10

There's no give in the fabric but the cut is good and it's incredibly breathable.

Rate the jacket for value:
 
7/10

It's a lot of money, there's no getting away from that. However, in Gore-Tex Active you are getting the best fabric of its kind, and the design is spot on. You're spending a lot, but you are getting a lot in return.

How easy is the jacket to care for? How did it respond to being washed?

It has come out well through repeated washing. The taped seams still look good and the performance hasn't diminished noticeably.

Tell us how the jacket performed overall when used for its designed purpose

It has performed superbly. It really is a bit special.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the jacket

Waterproofing, breathability, light weight, cut...

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the jacket

Well, there's the price. We'd all like it to be cheaper.

Did you enjoy using the jacket? Yes

Would you consider buying the jacket? Yes

Would you recommend the jacket to a friend? Without a doubt.

Use this box to explain your score

This is clearly an exceptional jacket. The only issue is the price and you can either stomach that or you can't. I think a 9 reflects just how good it is.

Overall rating: 9/10

About the tester

Age: 43  Height: 190cm  Weight: 75kg

I usually ride:   My best bike is:

I've been riding for: Over 20 years  I ride: Most days  I would class myself as: Expert

I regularly do the following types of riding: commuting, club rides, sportives, general fitness riding

Mat has been in cycling media since 1996, on titles including BikeRadar, Total Bike, Total Mountain Bike, What Mountain Bike and Mountain Biking UK, and he has been editor of 220 Triathlon and Cycling Plus. Mat has been road.cc technical editor for over a decade, testing bikes, fettling the latest kit, and trying out the most up-to-the-minute clothing. We send him off around the world to get all the news from launches and shows too. He has won his category in Ironman UK 70.3 and finished on the podium in both marathons he has run. Mat is a Cambridge graduate who did a post-grad in magazine journalism, and he is a winner of the Cycling Media Award for Specialist Online Writer. Now over 50, he's riding road and gravel bikes most days for fun and fitness rather than training for competitions.

Add new comment

17 comments

Avatar
ChrisS9 | 6 years ago
0 likes

Funnily enough I have similar issues with other brands, for example Rapha jackets seem invariably to be too tight on the forearms.  Haven't tried the Oro specifically but I have the Gore and it fits nicely.  To be fair my physique is more swimmer than climber though......

Avatar
nadsta | 6 years ago
0 likes

@ian7mesh-

FWIW I tried the Oro, the S was closest to fitting me but the arms were so super skinny they actually restricted my circulation with bent arms.  TBH the Castelli Idro was nearly as tight.  I am not muscley armed, pretty slim (but not T Rex arms).  Putting on and removng whilst triding would have been tricky. 

The waist was fine but the shoulders a little tight.

I went with the Gore race fit option, not quite as snug with some excess arm material but much more practical in use for my size. 

Avatar
peted76 | 6 years ago
1 like

I can't sing the praises of my gore jacket made of this material high enough, apart from to say I now wear and take it with me as often as possible.. for me it's just  made the 'choice' of what to wear far easier. 

 

Avatar
macrophotofly | 6 years ago
0 likes

Help Please : Out of the Gore, Idro, and this 7Mesh Oro, which has the longest relative dropped tail for covering the backside ?

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Le Dunc | 6 years ago
1 like

I've used mine for 2 months. Started Ronde Van Vlanderen in downpour in Antwerp and it was brilliant. Not just dry, but warm. Took it on Fred Whitton and forgot I had it as wasn't needed but would have been perfect even in the worst of weather. I use it early morning instead of a gilet now. Sizing is spot on. I wear a large and I'm a slim 6'3" - still allows a couple of layers if needed but arms fit really well and doesn't flap as long cut keeps it snug. Could get away with medium but happy with the flexibility of a large. It goes with me on most rides now. I absolutely love it. It just works. 

Avatar
Freddy56 | 6 years ago
0 likes

I have a Castelli idro, made of the same fabric. I feel like Moser wearing it, but , VERY sadly, still sweat like my other rain jackets...so disappointed.

I see SkY have a new jacket with the side panels made from vented material; and the front and back from the mterial used above.

NOT a game changer. Same game, the only thing that has changed in wallet thickness.

 

Avatar
Chris Hayes replied to Freddy56 | 6 years ago
2 likes
Freddy56 wrote:

I see SkY have a new jacket with the side panels made from vented material; and the front and back from the mterial used above.

This seems to be the way forward.  My Assos Sturmprinz is similarly constructed - numerous panels, different materials - some more breathable than others, and massive vents at the back. I paid GBP 180 for it from the Assos Outlet.  It's exceptional in the rain and the vents and breathable materials combine to ensure you don't overheat. 

Avatar
Freddy56 | 6 years ago
1 like

I have a Castelli idro, made of the same fabric. I feel like Moser wearing it, but , VERY sadly, still sweat like my other rain jackets...so disappointed.

I see SkY have a new jacket with the side panels made from vented material; and the front and back from the mterial used above.

NOT a game changer. Same game, the only thing that has changed in wallet thickness.

 

Avatar
captain_slog | 6 years ago
1 like

I hadn't heard of a reverse-coil zip before: https://www.ifixit.com/Wiki/Basic_or_Reverse_Coil_Zipper. But Mat always explains stack and reach, bless him.

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Kadinkski | 6 years ago
0 likes

It feels so fragile but it's tougher than it looks - I got it badly caught in thorns while taking a p1ss - you can see the catch but no tears or holes.

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BehindTheBikesheds | 6 years ago
0 likes

love the colour, love that it's really breathable/water repellant, what i don't love the the usual cack upsizing of the bottom parts of clothing for larger chest sizes. This is supposed to be a 'slim' fit or athletic and yet for the XXL which is a 46" chest (& a snug fit for me) ridiculously they've upped the 'waist' measurement to a massive 40" and the hip measurement to 46", seriously, what the actual kind of fucking shit is that, how can that be an athletic fit, just going to leave a shit load of material flapping about!!!

I would have being really interested in something like this despite the price tag, but moronic upsizing means I'm not now.

Avatar
ian7mesh replied to BehindTheBikesheds | 6 years ago
1 like

Hey behindthebikesheds, 

Just reading your comment and wondering if i could email you a few questions about fit and find out what current garments are fitting you, and what garments are not. If 7mesh is not fitting you it would be great to know why. 

@behindthebikesheds

Thanks, 

Ian

Avatar
BehindTheBikesheds replied to ian7mesh | 5 years ago
0 likes
ian7mesh wrote:

Hey behindthebikesheds, 

Just reading your comment and wondering if i could email you a few questions about fit and find out what current garments are fitting you, and what garments are not. If 7mesh is not fitting you it would be great to know why. 

@behindthebikesheds

Thanks, 

Ian

I didn't see this until now (because it's tipping it down and I've just been deciding which jacket is best), bit late but anyway as per my original post about sizing.

I don't own a 7Mesh, nor indeed any of the £220-£320 waterproof jackets, here is why.

I'm reasonably athletic, not quite as slim in the tum as I used to be (that's most of us well into our 40s and up!) however I have a 47" chest with fairly big shoulders though my upper arms are not massive by any stretch of imagination.

Your sizing in the biggest garment you offer would be fine for me as it states 46", however it's how you upscaled the rest of the garment elsewhere. As I said it was particularly around the middle and the hip/hemline. 

This is supposed to be an 'athletic' fit garment and yet for those of us with a larger than normal chest who not even in their pomp around the tum the extra material around the middle and hem line is simply too much. There's usually an issue around the shoulders too which though I haven't tried your garment out I have done other athletic fit kit which restricts movement/too snug even in the biggest sizes.

I realise that the XXL/XXXL market may not be the biggest segment for sales but if you cater for the market you need to understand that keeping to the design feature of an athletic fit and not simply upscaling all the measurements so you end up with a not so athletic fit as it would be for the smaller sizes is really quite important.

As an example, my Showers Pass Skyline fits me great everywhere, the chest, the arms, the shoulders and yet the hemline is only 21.5" and still comfortable even with as I said my not so athletic tum, your garment is 23" at the same point, that's an extra 3" of material that will and does flap about and is simply superfluous for an athletic fit.

HTH

Avatar
NorthEastJimmy | 6 years ago
0 likes

Sounds awesome!  I've always wished for a water proof similar to the rapha windproof pack jacket and this is pretty much it, same weight, style and size but with extra breath ability.  When my Paramo quito finally dies, this will be the replacement.  Can't see the Paramo dying though as it's survived the west highland way with three days of torrential rain and didnt let a drop of water through.

 

Personally I love the colour!

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Mungecrundle | 6 years ago
4 likes

Thanks for the tip about polythene bags. I shall get some for the kids next winter and buy one of these for myself with the money saved.

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beezus fufoon | 6 years ago
1 like

This is clearly an exceptional jacket. The only issue is the price colour and you can either stomach that or you can't. 

FTFY

Avatar
Freddy56 | 6 years ago
1 like

daft, daft daft

 

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