How to choose the right waterproof cycling jacket — stay dry and keep riding whatever the weather

It's not easy for a product to achieve a review score of 10/10, but tester Mike deemed Showers Pass' Elite 2.1 jacket was worthy due to it being 'the ultimate jacket for riding in appalling conditions.' It's not cheap, but thanks to great durability and a two-year warranty, the Elite is a long-term investment.  

It's made from Elite 3-layer rip stop fabrics and a multitude of venting options also keep you cool when you put in big efforts, or when outside temperatures start to rise. The Elite also comes with plenty of reflective detailing to help you get seen at night (there are bright colour options available other than the black seen in the photo), and there is also a hood available as an optional extra which we believe adds to the versatility of the jacket.

When it comes to fit, the Showers Pass has a roadie style to it being cut slim to reduce excess fabric flapping around, although we found it to still offer plenty of room beneath for a couple of layers.

The Santini Multi jacket doesn't really look like a waterproof, and appears more like a lightweight softshell or a long-sleeve jersey. Thanks to the ingenious Polartec Power Shield Pro fabric, though, you get a cutting-edge jacket that is highly waterproof, thermally insulating and breathable all in one. 

Our reviewer praised the waterproofing, saying that with the right base layer it will keep the worst downpours out. The light, breathable and warm fabric feels great against the skin and is great for temperatures between freezing and 10°C. You get three roomy open pockets and a waterproof zipped pocket, and the main zipper is two-way so you can open it from the bottom for more airflow if things are heating up. 

Overall, this is a superb jacket, but like all superb things it comes with a price tag. Invest, and you won't be disappointed. 

Stunningly light and minimalist (and stunningly expensive, but you get what you pay for) the MAAP Atmos is our money-no-object pick when it comes to stylish waterproofing on the bike. It can disappear into a jersey pocket and protects you against the worst weather while breathing hard, so is ideal for hard training rides in bad weather. 

The Pertex Shield fabric is a three-layer soft ripstop material with a 20,000mm hydrostatic rating. Our reviewer said it felt soft and stretchy, which makes it roomier than most high-end waterproofs. 

Bi-directional YKK zippers add to the practicality, and it's available in numerous fetching colourways. If you want one of the best packable cycling jackets on the market and are prepared to invest, you won't be disappointed with the Atmos. 

Earning a road.cc Recommends badge, the Endura Pro SL Waterproof shell jacket offers excellent waterproofing - rated to 20,000mm and has taped seams, and good breathability or 'monster' as Endura says – 60,000mm of moisture per square metre over a 24-hour period.

It's packable and light, and at the back there is a single pocket, enough for a bit of nutrition, which is useful when you have the jacket on for a while. 

When we reviewed the 7mesh Copilot Hollis reckoned it offered a minimalist design with maximum performance, being a brilliant packable jacket for taking with you everywhere.

The design and cut means that it is a bit of a Jack of all cycling trades with a looser fit than most road jackets, but still well shaped for life on the bike. It works for commuting, gravel riding, touring, bikepacking and more without looking out of place.

At £300 it isn't cheap, but we were very impressed with Gore's Paclite Plus fabric when it comes to waterproofing and blocking the wind. A hood is built into the design too. Breathability is also well managed with our reviewer finding that even on long climbs he never felt overwhelmed from a temperature management point of view in typical UK winter temperatures. 

Let's face it, if you're riding in the rain it is likely to be dull and grey, so if you want to be seen you'll want something bright like the Altura Nightvision Storm Waterproof jacket. Other colours are available if you want something a little more subdued, though.

If you are a commuter and work the 9-to-5 then your rides to and from work are probably going to be in the dark too, which is where the huge amount of reflectivity in this jacket really comes into play. For our reviewer George the results were impressive, with the Altura shunning wet weather and blocking the wind. Breathability was decent too for all but the most spirited of rides.

The reflectivity of the arms also helps with making your signals for turning more noticeable. There's a women's version of this jacket too which we've also reviewed.

The Altura Icon Pocket Rocket Waterproof Packable Jacket earned a solid 8/10 rating from us. It has a great fit, and quality construction and most importantly, comes with a good level of protection, suitable for various rides. The design includes a useful zip garage and a central pocket and the whole jacket weighs only 175g.

Although this bright jacket offers good wind and rain resistance, it has average breathability, making it more suitable for short or relaxed rides.

The Altura Grid Women’s Parka Waterproof Jacket is a more versatile, longer-length waterproof jacket. This makes it a great option for both on and off-the-bike activities. The parka design, with reflective patches offers good coverage and complements various body shapes. This jacket is a great choice for urban riders seeking functionality and style in a single jacket - and it's available in both men's and women's fit.