Pearl's PRO Aero WXB jacket was new for 2013, and it really is an exercise in minimalism. If you love pockets, a hood and a few bells and whistles, then the PRO Aero probably isn’t the jacket for you, but we found its unassuming style grew on us.
It weighs just 173g, making it one of the lightest jackets we've tested and it’s small enough to be packable – it will easily fit in a jersey pocket. That said, we think its barely-there feel will mean the PRO Aero will be worn more than it’s stowed.
- HIGHS: Performance and packability
- LOWS: Won't flatter the fuller figure
- WE SAY... Genuinely back pocket-packable and great waterproofing too
Despite its light weight, the Minerale material, zip and seams proved impressively waterproof under testing and the jacket comfortable on the bike. The cut is close, though not quite as snug as some jackets can be, and the material has a fair bit of stretch too.
Sizing-wise it also comes out a little large, so try before you buy to make sure you get the right fit.
With no hood and no pockets it’s beautifully minimal, but it’s not completely lacking in features. A long zip-pull, chin guard, stretch cuffs and an elastic back are small details that add a lot of comfort. It comes in red, blue and black colour options.
Pearl Izumi PRO Aero WXB – also available in red and black
Our only – very slight – criticism is that it's possible to catch the zip on the internal storm flap. Otherwise it's a great quality lightweight and genuinely packable waterproof.
This article was is based on reviews originally published in Cycling Plus and Mountain Biking UK magazines.