Gore make splendid kit that lasts an age, and the Cosmo soft shell jacket (a GoreTex 'performance shell' version is also available) is a fine example of what they’re all about.
Made from Gore’sunique Windstopper material, it’s both water resistant and completely windproof. The lining is fleece, and the cut works well with a base layer and a mid layer underneath or over regular clothes.
The cuffs have Lycra sleeves with thumbholes, and the collar is fleece lined and nice and high to stop cold air interfering.
There’s a chest pocket that’s ideal for a phone, two front hand pockets with zips, and a rear pocket for tools, and all the zips have tags, making them easy to locate even with gloves on. The right arm has a shoulder pocket with a Velcro flap.
Gore dub the fit 'loose', but we’d say it’s actually a little on the fitted side. The sleeves are more than long enough, and although the back doesn’t have a drop tail, it is plenty long enough for most people.
Despite the material being water resistant, we’ve not used a waterproof since we discovered the Cosmos –it keeps all but the very worst out, and being as warm and comfy as it is, it’s always got top hook on the BikeRadar coatstand.