Endura Women's Pakajak jacket

Endura's latest women's offering is the aptly named Pakajak jacket, in a fetching bright pink shade. On day that's threatening rain this jacket gives you no excuses to stay in.

What we have here is an ultralight packable showerproof jacket made from ripstop fabric that turns out to be a bit better than showerproof. It's just perfect for popping in your saddle bag or back of your jersey when the sun comes out.

This jacket has bonded and laser cut storm flaps, a comfortable edge on the wrists and hips with an added zip guard to stop chafing on the neck. Reflective trim on sleeves is a welcome touch, with added shoulders and rear underarm mesh vents for breathability, although in my opinion it could do with more vents as I still got reasonably hot in the jacket even with only a breathable layer underneath.

Performance wise this jacket works well. While riding in heavy rain the droplets beaded off and left me dry as a bone. Unzipping in a hurry revealed an indicator of a well-crafted jacket: no catching on the fabric. It should be noted that this jacket is just an outer shell and therefore a greater amount of undergarments would be required on milder days.

Endura provide elasticated cuffs, rear neck and hem and they did just the job in keeping me warm and dry with no parachute effect when riding along. The Pakajak could use a draw-string for those chilly evenings and early mornings, but you really can't complain at £34.99.

You are really paying for the peace of mind of a 'just in case' jacket here, which is why it's nowhere near as expensive as a fully waterproof, seam-taped storm jacket. But if you're looking for a water-resistant, lightweight jacket this pink Pakajak is a steal and you will certainly stand out for all the right reasons.

If pink's too cliched for you, the Pakajak's also available in black, blue, purple and white. Endura offers size from XS (8/10) to XL (16/18).

I love this jacket. It feels great to wear and fits perfectly, though it does lack obvious features such as pockets. Its handy paca-mac bag makes up for that though as it can be easily packed away when the sun comes out.

Verdict

A well fitting, flattering jacket that is plenty waterproof and great value, but missing a few key features.