Mavic Sprint Thermo Jacket

Offering a good mix of heat retention, weather resistance and good looks, the Mavic Sprint Thermo Jacket has become my winter-riding jacket of choice.

I've been riding the jacket for a couple of months now, always hoping for the weather to chill down further to test it limits of comfort each time and now that we've finally had a few minus figures on the Garmin's temperature display I feel happy to write about it.

In autumnal weather it's a solid outer layer, keeping the rider snug and cosy inside, so much so that the vents on the lower sleeves (complete with fly filters to stop ingress) will be opened and the arms ventilated. Cold weather is where the jacket really shines however.

I've taken to reaching for the Sprint Thermo Jacket on the early mornings at the moment where I know it will keep me in good comfort levels despite the sub-zero temps. The front of the jacket features a wind-proof shell keeping the worst of the chill off of the chest - I've been wearing the jacket with a summer base layer just to test it, and it's done a grand job at keeping me feeling comfortable.

On the leading edge (that's the bit facing into the wind) the only real negative I've experienced has come from the underside of the sleeves. The outer material is windproof and does a great job, but if the sleeve twists the under side can come into direct contact with the wind. This can be negated simply by wearing a long sleeved jersey underneath; I imagine the jacket wasn't envisaged to be worn with just a sleeveless base layer.

Out and about in riding, the jacket is both comfortable and practical. There are three pockets and a zipped key pocket to the rear, with touches of reflectivity to aid visibility, plus a zipped chest pocket (I love zipped chest pockets). That all ensures the gel, tube and pump carrying capabilities are taken care of. The neck features a softer elastic material, rising higher than usual and this does a great job at keeping the snug-level high, without feeling over-bearing.

When the weather turns for the worst the jacket fends off the drizzle and road spray admirably. It's by no means waterproof, but will keep the wearer dry for a good amount of time if a covering isn't available. I wore it out for a couple of hours in heavy mist/drizzle and was both warm and dry inside, with the exterior of the jacket holding the wet at bay.

The cuffs are baggy/ergonomic. This will work for some although they aren't my preference, in practise they worked well with winter gloves and were comfortable.

An off-centre zip ensures that your beards doesn't get caught or your neck doesn't get chaffed, and keeps the look very smart and 'fast'.

I've really enjoyed my riding with the Mavic Sprint Thermo Jacket. it's been picked up more often than not, and despite the abuse it's taken it has washed up really well, shrugging off the worst of the road mank with ease.

Now that the weather has changed, if you find yourself getting caught out with the cold and wet then this should be at the top of your list.

Verdict

Stylish, warm, and weather resistant; an excellent winter riding jacket