Specialized's relatively lightweight Deflect jacket uses Gore’s Windstopper Active Shell fabric to keep cold gusts at bay.
It’s classed as water resistant rather than waterproof, but we still found the Deflect H2O kept the rain out for some time during heavy downpours. And if it’s really nasty out, the hood sits comfortably under your helmet.
The mesh lining helps to reduce the clamminess common with jackets like this but doesn’t add too much bulk, so it’s easy to store in your pack. It’s reasonably breathable too, which is great on rides with plenty of climbing.
We had to cinch the drawcord hem right in because the Deflect H2O is sized a little on the large size, making our medium test sample a little less fitted and more casual-looking than we’d have liked. Try before you buy here.
That said, coverage on the bike is good and the lightweight construction means it doesn’t sit awkwardly on the body when in the saddle like some thicker jackets can.
The three zipped pockets (two on either side plus one on the chest) are really handy, and the price is reasonable too, considering the quality of the fabric used.
