Sweet Protection Delirious jacket review

The best waterproof jackets tend to combine simplicity of design and great materials and it’s a killer combo that is perfectly illustrated in the Sweet Protection Delirious.

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Made from Gore-Tex Active Shell, which having worn it across a wide range of jackets I’ve found to give a very high level of breathability even on milder days.

Sweet Protection has worked it into an unfussy style with one pocket and an excellent fit that features an extra long drop to the back hem. It’s a detail that many jackets neglect in favour of a more causal look, but for proper mucky British winter trails it makes a real difference.

For complete security of coverage the hem is kept in place with a drawcord. It seals everything tight, which not only keeps you drier but warmer too on the coldest days.

The collar is also adjustable against the elements, again helping in the worst weather when rain seems to sneak in everywhere. What there isn’t however is a hood. Many riders I know don’t use them and if you’re one then you won’t miss it and will appreciate the clean lines of the jacket without it, but f it’s a deal breaker then this won’t be the jacket for you.

The cut looks slim, but that’s deceptive because I found it can accommodate winter layers with ease. It’s not too baggy though when worn over a single baselayer, which is how I’ve tended to wear it during testing.

There’s huge appeal in the uncompromising bike style of this jacket and it delivers in terms of both waterproofing and breathable performance. That tends not to come cheap and the Delirious isn’t, but if you have the budget to invest I think it’s well worth it and almost perfect (half a star off for the lack of hood…)

Weight: 258g