The expense of the Castelli Pocket Liner jacket is partly due to the labour-intensive construction its design requires.
The highly waterproof and breathable eVent material has 'plissé stretch zones' – concertina-like sections – to achieve an anatomical fit on the back and elbows.
The breathability is improved with a couple of zipped side vents, while the zip's wide external storm flap is supplemented by large velcro patches for extra security all the way up to the collar; adjustable velcro cuffs help to keep your wrists dry too.
The eVent material shrugs off heavy rain very well, but for a lightweight top it's still a squeeze getting it in a jersey pocket. This really is a great top… but it comes at a correspondingly top price.
The level of waterproofing is fantastic
- HIGHS: Great waterproofing
- LOWS: Not as packable as some
- WE SAY... Great water resistance but it's hard to ignore the £290 price