Proof that the combination of a great fit and a top-notch fabric are all you ever need, Specialized's Evolution jacket is brilliant in its simplicity. Made from Gore-Tex Active, which combines guaranteed waterproofing with superb breathability, it still packs small enough to tuck into a jersey pocket.
The cut doesn’t look as if it’ll suit everyone’s needs, with the extreme dropped tail and slim fit seeming to put it firmly in the XC race category. But since unpacking it we’ve been wearing this jacket a lot across a wide variety of riding and have never found it wanting. It’s not expensive in its class and it’s slim enough for road use if you’re looking for something that looks at home there too.