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Nukeproof Nirvana jacket review

A versatile waterproof

Our rating

4

185.00
150.00
240.00

Russell Burton

Published: January 16, 2020 at 11:24 am

Our review
Although it’s designed specifically for mountain bikers, the Nirvana is versatile and light weight with impressive breathability, considering its price

Pros:

Packable into its own pocket; plenty of pockets; great price compared to competition

Cons:

Could dissipate heat better

Classic mountain bike styling and a killer price point make the Nukeproof Nirvana a jacket to be reckoned with.

Technically it’s a packable jacket, because the whole thing folds into the front pocket, but my money is on you never doing that again after the first time because it’s simply too useful to consign to a pack.

As well as the chest pocket, there are two additional hand warmer pockets. This gives it a more casual vibe and is in keeping with the relaxed fit of the jacket, which means it’s one you’re likely to wear off the bike as well as on it. My test jacket has probably been used as much around town as it has for trail duties – versatility that frankly makes it even better value.

Once it turns colder, the jacket's easier fit means that there’s room to layer up as needed underneath too.

The 2.5 layer waterproof fabric has a soft handle and is quiet to wear, and despite its relatively light weight, I’ve stayed dry through some frankly atrocious conditions.

Breathability could be better, but is helped by gills under the arms for dissipating heat build-up. You never expect the highest level of breathability at this price, but the Nirvana pleasantly surprised me. Combined with a Merino baselayer it worked well even on warmer days.

Arm length is good, with an angled cut, which drops over the back of the hand. It’s a small detail, but makes it less likely that a gap will open up between sleeve and glove and is a refinement usually found on more expensive styles.

The overall length from the top of the helmet-compatible hood to the back hem at the bottom of the jacket is generous enough even for six-foot plus riders and the hood locks down well in the worst weather with an adjustable drawcord.

A final detail is the extra-long zip-pull, which you won’t miss even with the chunkiest of gloved fingers, and it underlines that this is a jacket designed by mountain bikers for mountain bikers.

The construction quality, feature specification and ride comfort suggest a much higher price point. Check it out.

Product

Brandnukeproof
Price240.00 AUD,150.00 GBP,185.00 USD

Features

br_gendermens
br_clothingKeyFeatureshooded
br_clothingKeyFeatureswaterproof
br_clothingKeyFeatureszip_closure