The zip on my Royal Transformer Jacket has finally given up the ghost, so I need to track down a suitable replacement (Royal don’t make them any more).

Does anyone have any recommendations for convertible jackets (i.e. ones where the sleeves zip off, and you can use it as a Gilet).

Needs to go up to a decent size (I’m big boned 😉 ) and preferably be soft shell (I carry a packable waterproof for when it’s really tipping down).

Gore Bike Wear softshell. Pricey, but best top I’ve ridden in.

Gore Phantom might be what you’re looking for.

Quite fancy a Gore but have heard they size fairly small?

Strangely enough, they cater for this by having more than one size 🙄

Strangely enough, they cater for this by having more than one size

Which would have been hilarious had I said “they only have one size”……. but I didn’t. I said they size fairly small ie for a given size, they come up small compared to other manufacturers product.

Thank for the initial advice though 😀

Endura Convert appears to fit the bill.

I use Paramo. Can’t remember what it’s called.

Like the look of that Convert – didn’t realise they did a softshell version. Sizing should be OK as I’ve got an Endura softshell already.

Got a North Face Dirt Tracks recently, very happy with it.

Like the look of that Convert – didn’t realise they did a softshell version.

Is the softshell version waterproof?

I have a one year old non-softshell version & like it. Have never used it as a gilet though. Not as breathable as other more expensive jackets but it’s well ventilated & I only rarely feel excessively damp in it.