Castelli Gabba 2 jersey

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?

Castelli says:

We invented the Gabba as a no-compromise race piece. We didn't expect it to be a huge commercial success, but we did expect it to give our pros an unfair advantage. We were mistaken on both accounts, especially the latter, because practically every pro went out and bought a Gabba and covered up the logos. And nearly every competitive company has come up with a copy. But the other pro riders still want this one. This one piece will change how you dress for cool conditions.

Products like the Gabba jersey define Castelli: innovation, performance, and creating products that change pro racing and make you more comfortable. The original Gabba has taken the peloton by storm since its introduction in 2010, with most pros buying or begging their way to the must-have piece for cold-weather racing.

Based on pro rider needs, created to offer a tangible competitive advantage and developed in a no-compromise pursuit of performance, this jersey represents the essence of who we are.

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

o Fully aero, fully breathable and fully protected

o Nano Flex fabric insert under arms

o Windstopper® X-Lite Plus fabric for lightweight total wind protection with water-repellent finish

o Storm-flap construction at back protects from wheel spray

o Silicone gripper on waistband to limit ride-up

o Full-length YKK® Vislon zipper with wind flap

o 3 rear pockets with drain mesh

o Rear reflective trim on pockets and flap for high visibility

The construction oozes quality.

It keeps me warm in foul conditions, thanks to its windproof and water resistant properties.

It's not the lightest if you're comparing to other jerseys. It's lighter than a jersey and waterproof though.

Fits like a glove, keeps me warm with much less boil-in-the-bag than a waterproof.

£150 is not cheap for a jersey, even one that is windproof and waterproof. The Stolen Goat Orkaan that Jez reviewed here, and liked a lot, is considerably cheaper, as are offerings from Gore and Endura, though we haven't tested those. Still, it's made by Castelli, and it's damn good.

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

It does what it says on the tin, keeps you as comfortable as is possible in foul weather.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

I don't have to think about what to wear in bad weather.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

Can't think of anything.

Use this box to explain your score

There may be cheaper alternatives on the market now, but Castelli's Gabba is still exceptionally good at what it does: making riding in bad weather a lot less miserable.