http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=45011
I' have one on back-order, must be good, not a single negative!
I will admit that I was a bit skeptical of spending 50 quid on a softshell - I usually wear either leather jackets or in colder weather a lined fleece with a waterproof over the top, however.. To say I am surprised is an understatement! The pictures don't really do justice to how versatile this jacket is. Firstly although it looks that way, I can confirm that the hood is removable, which is a bonus for those days when you don't need it. The collar is high, and zips up to your mouth/nose, so you really can hunker down in it on those cold/windy days, whether walking or riding. I have been using this jacket on my daily commute since the end of October til now (mid-december)* and so far, apart from being FAR too warm at the end of a ride in warmer evening, it hasn't been found wanting. Yes, you will find it's not a waterproof**, however even spending 40 mins in heavy rain I have still only found water getting in through the shoulder stitching, the rest stays perfectly dry, even inside the pockets ***. The hood is great, and when attached into the collar (the primary fixing is a zip at the back, with velcro fixings at the sides - best used in cold rain and driving winds!) it pulls up and over your head, and there are toggles to pull it tight if you need. The wrists are a good 'default' tightness - but again can be fixed tighter to keep out the cold if necessary. This is a WARM jacket however - the microfleece lining works wonders, and I would say it's totally windproof; and I live on the Channel coast. I am a 38" chest and have the medium, and it fits well, lengthwise sits on the hips, so I'd say just go for your 'normal' size in jackets. (Of course, it helps if you have the bike to go with it, which I am lucky to do, but I'm also equally happy sticking this on to pop down to the supermarket or the pub in an evening as well - certainly looks a damn sight better than certain other 'fashionable' brands IMO.) I can't recommend this highly enough!
* my M has been on back order since December!
*** see ** - "not waterproof" WTF?
