Damp days call for the right gear. The waterproof Gore Bike Wear Contest 2.0 Jacket packs small, has excellent ventilation, and, thanks to a full zip, can be quickly removed or worn depending on what Mother Nature throws your way.
The fit is very good, could maybe be a tiny bit longer in the front. It does exactly what it's supposed to do, blocks wind, breaths and allows you to easily shed heat with a slight unzip if you're on a big climb. A few upgrades would make it perfect for me:
1. The zipper is a bit fussy in the transition between the top and the kink between your neck and chest but maybe that's a function of the material and the fit, quality zipper for sure.
2. The pocket in the back is not good, it's too big and deep so it's tough to get stuff out especially with the bulky zipper flap. A better design would be to use a standard 3 pocket approach maybe made out something different than the jacket, something that stretches a bit, mesh maybe. I hate the pocket. Could maybe line one of the pockets with something water resistant and have a zipper or some velcro on that one pocket.
3. Some small mesh pit holes placed out of the wind might help it regulate temperature better.
4. Could maybe be cut for a bit more forward lean. I sometimes have to shrug my shoulders to get it to come up a bit so I'm not getting resistance across the back.
Very limited wind flap.
Windstopper is amazing and will cut out every last bit of wind. This is an Active Shell piece, so very light and packable. Great addition to any jersey and the fit is pretty close to right on.