Polaris Hexon jacket

The Polaris Hexon jacket is a competitively priced, lightweight and highly weather repellent shell with excellent wicking prowess, so you'll remain temperate, and dry swiftly following a downpour.

Our sample was a sharp red/black colour scheme with plentiful 3M detailing that sits just the right side of garish but there's the time honoured day glow yellow should you prefer. Either way, it's made from Hydrovent, a sophisticated two layer laminate, similar to Gore-Tex in that it uses a capillary action to evict moisture.

Taped seams prevent wet stuff sneaking through and adjustable cuffs and collar continue this theme. I also liked the sensibly proportioned rear pocket, which is easily accessed from the saddle and in gloved hand.

There's room enough for small multi-tool, patch kit, tyre levers and key but the pockets thwarts temptation to cram in too much stuff. It'd be nice to have a second pocket on the breast though.

Polaris tend to be very generous in their proportions and while slightly longer in the arms and tail than medium might suggest, the cut was absolutely bang on, entertaining full length winter-weight base and mid layers without feeling remotely restrictive.

Several cold, nocturnal runs were a pleasant surprise, those fibres blocking icy crosswinds extremely well and retaining a comfortable inner climate with Merino base layers, although polyamide and cheaper polyesters induced some slight, yet lingering dampness around my lower back.

Hunkered low on the drops, the Hexon's tail hugs close, protecting this region, while the cuffs form a brilliant seal. Milder weather doesn't provoke radical change either, there's a slight lag before the fibres kick in but I've never needed to drop the front zipper for additional airflow.

Performance in mild to moderate showers is equally impressive and broadly on par with some costlier eVent shells I've run for some time. However, persistent heavy stuff makes more of an impression before the fabric responds.

This genre of material also needs to air following wet rides, so hang them out carefully and treat with a dash of wash in cleaner/proofer every few tours de Zanussi.

However, from a personal perspective, garments that might turn a wee bit damp but dry quickly are a more comfortable option than belt 'n' braces waterproofs that leave one feeling boiled in the bag and vulnerable to chill.

Verdict

Nicely designed shell with good balance between weatherproofing and breathability; second pocket would be nice