Super deals: At least 50% off

Men's Cycling Jackets

Cold air on a descent calls for a windproof; steady rain needs a membrane and a long tail.

Guide

Men's Cycling Jackets

Try the jacket on with your arms stretched out, as if holding the bars. Your back and wrists should stay covered without the fabric pulling across the shoulders.

Key points

Windproof for chilly descents, membrane for rain, insulated for winter rides.
In the riding position the back stays covered and sleeves reach past the wrist.
A close fit barely flaps; a relaxed cut leaves room for a layer or body armour.
Riding after dark: pick a bright colour with reflective detail on the back.

Which cycling jacket for which ride?

Ride	What matters	Your jacket
Road, spring and autumn	What mattersCold descents, little room in a jersey pocket	Your jacketThin windproof that packs down small
Wet days	What mattersRain from above, spray from the back wheel	Your jacketMembrane jacket with taped seams and a dropped tail
Mountain bike	What mattersBranches, crashes, room for armour	Your jacketTough fabric, relaxed cut, hood that fits over a helmet
Winter	What mattersCold at speed, sweat on your back	Your jacketInsulated or softshell jacket, windproof at the front
Commuting	What mattersDarkness, rain, keys and phone	Your jacketWaterproof, reflective, with zipped pockets

What to look for

Question	In short	Why
Windproof or waterproof?	In shortWindproof most days	WhyA windproof weighs little and breathes better. In steady rain it gives up, and that is when you want a membrane with taped seams.
Which size?	In shortChest and arm length	WhyMeasure your chest and check the brand's chart. Check the sleeves with your arms out in front, as on the bars.
Close or relaxed fit?	In shortDepends on bike and layers	WhyA close fit stops flapping on a road bike. A relaxed cut leaves room for a fleece or a back protector.
How do I vent on a climb?	In shortZips do the work	WhyYou will sweat uphill in any jacket. A two-way front zip or underarm vents let heat out without stopping.

Frequently asked questions

How do I wash a membrane jacket?

Follow the care label. Usually that means liquid detergent and no fabric softener, which clogs the membrane. Many brands then suggest a low tumble dry, because gentle heat revives the water-repellent finish.

Gilet or jacket?

A gilet keeps wind off your chest and stomach and leaves your arms free. It is enough when only your core feels the chill, on an early start or a descent. If your arms are cold too, add sleeves or arm warmers.

Why do cycling jackets have a longer back?

Leaning forward on the bike pulls the hem up. The dropped tail keeps your lower back covered and catches spray from the rear wheel when you ride without mudguards.

Will an ordinary rain jacket do?

For short trips, yes. On longer rides a short back, sleeves that ride up when you reach for the bars and a hood flapping in the wind get annoying. Cycling jackets are cut for the forward position.

What goes underneath in winter?

A wicking base layer next to the skin, with a thin midlayer on frosty days. Cotton stays wet and chills you. The jacket should block wind at the front and can breathe at the back.

Last updated: November 2026