This mid-level winter/spring jacket from smart Italian bikewear house Castell is rated from 8°C to 15°C. Our test period covered temperatures down to freezing and up to 10°C and this jacket was good for the lot.
Gore Windstopper fabric covers the front of the body. A high collar, long back that fits over your bum and snug cuffs keep you feeling cosy and protected. For a Castelli piece it’s quite a relaxed fit so you can comfortably wear a base layer underneath.
It won’t keep you dry (and doesn’t claim to) but light showers run off the sleeves and front. The untreated back panel, to add breathability, can get cold if the weather turns.
Zip vents at the front help when things warm up; it’s also soft enough to wear without a base as we reach proper spring. Reflective flashes and three deep back pockets make it practical and of course it looks good, but if it’s just function you’re after there’s no need to spend this much.
This article was originally published in Triathlon Plus magazine.