This basic, low-cost shell top will keep off the worst weather as you scurry for home, although extended rides or serious exertion are beyond it.
The M:Tec 100 fabric is a bit noisy and plasticky in feel, but the ripstop reinforcement shrugs off swipes from thorns and trees in tight singletrack.
The fabric cuts out a lot of windchill on frosty mornings and it bounces a fair amount of water off before it wets out. The longer tail and high collar means not much in the way of drips or draughts are let through, although the fabric feels clammy wherever it touches bare skin.
It’s pretty light for the money and, like a school anorak, it stuffs into its own zipped pocket. Even so, it would still be a squeeze to fit into most jersey pockets, so it comes with an elastic strap for dangling off bike or bag when you aren’t wearing it.
While it’s okay when you’re cruising or the weather is sure to soak you, putting the hammer down creates immediate steam build-up, and left us sodden inside after high-intensity rides.
