The EQ2.5 is certainly good and light, although still very much a wear-it-when-you-go-out jacket rather than one you can pack into a jersey pocket 'just in case'. Constructed from 2.5 layer waterproof fabric, it has a mesh lining (designed to make it feel less clammy on), a dropped tail with gripper at the rear, partially elasticated/partially Velcro cuffs, underarm zips and vents across the back for ventilation and a soft fuzzy collar lining. There is also a smattering of reflective bits and pieces to add to the rider's visibility, a generous rear zipped pocket and two small internal pockets (one zipped).
The fit is contoured enough to not be baggy and annoying on the bike, and there's good length in the body and sleeves, but curvy women may find the cut on the athletic side, with little provision made for hips. The fabric breathes reasonably well, but does still have a tendency to allow moisture build-up inside, particularly in slightly warmer wet weather or during energetic rides, making the permanent rear vents and underarm zips a very useful addition.
Considering it's a £70 jacket though, it does an excellent job and you wouldn't expect an ultra breathable fabric at that price. It's an ideal jacket for shorter commutes or fitness rides, but for long hardcore rides in the rain, a more breathable jacket might be preferable.
Does just what it claims at a really good value price.
road.cc test report
Make and model: dhb Ladies EQ2.5 Waterproof Jacket
Tell us what the product 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?
Aimed at cyclists looking for a cost effective lightweight waterproof jacket.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
100% polyester
Mesh lined throughout
2.5 layer waterproof fabric
Dropped tail design
Rear zipped pocket
2 internal pockets (1 zipped)
Shoulder vents
Underarm zipped vents
Elastic/velcro fastening cuffs
Soft lined collar
Available in sizes 8-16
Rate the product for quality of construction:
9/10
Very well made from good quality components.
Rate the product for performance:
8/10
The reduced breathability of the cheaper waterproof fabric is somewhat mitigated by the permanent vents across the shoulders and also the option of the underarm pit zips.
Rate the product for durability:
8/10
Should last fine, although my experience of cheaper waterproof fabrics is that they become less breathable more quickly than more expensive varieties.
Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
9/10
For journies where you put the jacket on before you go out, this is absolutely spot on. Too bulky rather than heavy for jersey pocket use.
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
9/10
Very comfortable an the venting make the less breathable fabric still extremely comfortable to wear.
Rate the product for value:
10/10
Really great value for money for a well considered jacket with plenty of features.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
Performed very well indeed.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
Features, venting.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
Cut (very personal though).
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.
Would you consider buying the product? Definitely if the cut had suited me.
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes, especially one with an athletic build.
Anything further to say about the product in conclusion?
Very well featured and excellent value for money. Particularly good for those looking for a jacket for short-to mid distance rainy rides.
Age: 37 Height: 1.65m Weight: 67kg
I usually ride: My best bike is:
I've been riding for: 10-20 years I ride: Most days I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: commuting, touring, general fitness riding, mtb,
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