Endura GV500 waterproof jacket review

The Endura GV500 waterproof jacket has been designed to combine light weight with all-day protection and comfort.

It’s intended to perform during both short, sharp efforts and extended or multi-day rides thanks to its fine-knit laminate material that both protects the waterproof membrane and enhances moisture transfer and breathability.

Endura GV500 details and specification

Endura has placed its light three-layer ExoShell40 material at the heart of the GV500 in order to provide the more hard-wearing qualities of a three-layer shell without any extra weight.

A fine-knit inner layer is specially treated to enhance moisture transfer and improve breathable performance.

Features have been kept to a minimum, with a single chest pocket the jacket packs into, a dropped tail and an over-helmet hood.

That doesn’t leave it under-specified by any means because details such as a back hem gripper and silicon shoulder reinforcement deliver practicality without adding any extra bulk.

Endura GV500 performance

The test period was unusually warm, and even on wet days I was riding in temperatures that rarely dipped below 12°C. On occasion, I had to stray from the standard long-sleeve Patagonia Capilene Cool Merino baselayer and into its short-sleeve sibling to keep cool enough.

Short-sleeve tops aren’t always the most comfortable when worn with waterproof jackets, which can leave you feeling clammy the moment you start to sweat.

Working hard in the GV500, it's clear the attention paid to comfort inside the jacket has paid off. I can’t say hand on heart that I didn’t get damp when working hard on mild days, but the jacket seems to deal with it and stays smooth and soft against bare arms.

When brand new and unwashed, the GV500’s material beaded well and didn’t wet out. Despite its light weight, the jacket felt solid even in heavy rain.

However, like all PFC-free DWR coatings, as soon as dirt or grime gets into the material during use, the coating becomes less effective. I recommend checking reproofing instructions to maintain its performance.

The cut is slim but not skinny and good shaping in the arms allows for free range of movement without the need for excess width to accommodate changing positions. Clearly, the GV500 has been designed for active riders.

The protectively generous rear tail and sleeve cuffs sit long over the hand even when dropping right back off the saddle, when the jacket’s material is stretched out with its wearer’s back.

To be picky though, when at full stretch it can feel snug under the arms.

The hood is one of the best I’ve tested. It fits easily over a mountain bike helmet and turns with your head, ensuring full visibility at all times.

The GV500 is light enough to use as an emergency shell, but I found it versatile enough for long outings on fast-riding trails too.

How does the Endura GV500 compare to the Altura Ridge?

The GV500 is very much an active MTB jacket and cut to complement active riding.

While the Altura Ridge has a similar price point and lightweight material specification, it's more of an all-round jacket, with front pockets, an easier fit and a cut that works for a more upright style and across general outdoor use.

Endura GV500 bottom line

The Enduro GV500 provides an excellent balance of active comfort and waterproof protection that works for multi-day and short rides alike, at an accessible price.