Lusso Skylon 2XS windproof jacket

The Lusso Skylon is a simple windproof/showerproof that's easily small enough to pack down and carry in a jersey pocket until it's needed.

If you've yet to discover the delights of the lightweight windproof, do yourself a favour and get one. Other people at road.cc harp on about gilets being the most versatile bit of cycling clothing out there; I go on about lightweight windproofs as the unsung heroes of the wardrobe. You sling one in your pocket just in case the weather turns cold or you stay out later than expected, and it makes a massive difference to your warmth when you put it on.

This one from Lusso weighs just 98g. That's the weight of a couple of Snickers bars. It'll pack down to fit easily into one of your jersey pockets.

The jacket is made from Skylon fabric which is a lightweight, windproof nylon. It's also surprisingly water resistant although the seams aren't taped. It won't keep you dry in a storm but it'll keep out a short shower, the water beading up and rolling off. If it's likely to rain properly, you'll need a full-on waterproof to protect you. The fabric is also fairly breathable, although if you do start to sweat the best option is just to take the jacket off and sling it back in your pocket.

The full-length front zip is decent quality while the cuffs and hem are both made from stretchy elastic with silicone dots inside to help keep them in place. That's about it in terms of features. This is a pretty simple bit of kit, but that's all you need. More features equal more bulk.

I've used this jacket loads lately, especially on after work rides when the temperature tends to drop considerably in a couple of hours. I go out wearing a jersey and sling this on top when the sun starts dipping down below the horizon. It works a treat for that kind of thing, stopping the evening air from robbing all your hard-earned body heat.

My one criticism is that I'd like a slightly slimmer cut through the body; a sportier cut to avoid downhill flappage. I found it a bit roomy and the overall sizing larger than normal (check Lusso's size chart). You might want to size down for a better fit.

Overall, though, it does the job well and it's a very good price. It's made in the UK and is also available in black and yellow.

Verdict

Simple, lightweight windproof/showerproof that adds loads of warmth when the temperature drops