The Gore-Tex Active range is indeed a Gore-Tex branded garment, but the material has been adapted slightly for more physical activity. The Gore-Tex Active material therefore decreases the waterproofing properties slightly in order to increase breathability and sweat management.
- This Gore-Tex cycling jacket weighs less than an energy bar
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The pores in the jacket’s membrane are 20,000 times smaller than water droplets, but are 700 times larger than water vapour, which means, Gore claims, sweat escapes while keeping water out. Seems impossible, but this is genuinely guaranteed by Gore.
Many people forget that Gore-Tex products have a lifetime guarantee too, which includes a lifetime of repairs and replacements if and when things go wrong, and, contrary to popular belief, Gore-Tex Active jackets are machine washable at 40 degrees.
I like the small attention to detail you get with a Gore jacket; the soft feel, the sleeve cuffs extending out over the tops of the hands, the waterproof flaps covering the zipped pockets, and the adjustable hood with a peak to keep it in place, as well as a magnet to hold it down when not in use.
There are also neat touches, such as pink stitching and reflective detailing on the cuffs. The fit is beautiful too, to the point that I’ve worn it as a smart waterproof off the bike as well. There is also a hidden adjustable drawstring around the waist.
Out and about
As you’d expect, water beads off the jacket, it dries really quickly, and most of the rain is gone with a rapid shake. It’s also light and packs down reasonably small for what is effectively a 'proper' jacket.
Gore-Tex Active material is definitely lighter than the classic Gore-Tex material (which you’ll find on expensive walking coats), but it does the job just as well and doesn’t get as hot as the classic Gore-Tex jackets.
Although it breaths well and doesn’t attract much (if any) sweat vapour on the inside, it's a lot warmer than many of its competitors. I often wanted to take the coat off and cool down once the rain had stopped, and that was the only reason the Power Trail jacket didn’t reach the full five stars.
That being said, I am more likely to reach for this jacket over any other if I were expecting to be out in the rain all day, or wanting to get from A to B in heavy downpours.
While it may be a tad too warm for me all year round, it's likely to become my best friend in the winter. It won’t be one coat to rule them all, but if you can afford two, a lighter jacket for spring/autumn and this one for winter, then it is a worthy investment, and it is a beautifully fitting and crafted jacket with quality oozing out from every feature.
Price, sizing and availability
The sizing range of the Gore Power Trail Lady is extensive, ranging from XS to XXL. Bear in mind that Gore clothing tends to size up small, and women with a curvier figure, especially in the bust, may need to go up a size or two.
Whether you want a bright colour or something more stealth, there should be something to suit in the range of five colours available including dark brown, navy, black and brighter 'scuba blue' and 'jazzy pink'.
- £199 / $280 / AU$TBC
- More info: Gore Apparel
- Available from: Wiggle / Competitive Cyclist / Wheelbase