The best waterproof cycling jackets 2024 - 23 options for road, gravel, and commuting

This guide is the culmination of a couple of seasons of testing in the worst weather that Britain has to offer. It's constantly evolving, with new jackets added as and when they pass muster. It's very much a guide of three parts, split into jackets designed for road use, gravel excursions, and commuting, as each has different requirements in terms of cut and features. 

The best waterproof cycling jackets, whatever they're designed for, will ultimately keep you dry, as well as provide enough breathability to stop you from getting wet from the inside. If staying warm is a greater priority, we've got a parallel guide to the best winter cycling jackets that covers all the insulated options, as well as things like softshells. 

Cycling still has a great way to go to reach actual gender parity, and while many waterproof jackets are nominally unisex, this basically just means a men's cut and women can use it if they choose to. Where dedicated women's versions of these jackets exist they have also been called in for review to pick out any issues that I'd miss in my capacity as a man. For this, I've been ably assisted by Claire Sharpe, a level 3 MTB guide and someone who loves a big day in the rain just as much as I do.

Yes, indoor cycling is a totally valid way to spend your time and a hugely effective training aid too, but I prefer riding outside, and having the right gear to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable makes things infinitely more enjoyable. If you're sorted for waterproofs then be sure to check out our other guides to the best winter bib tights, the best winter cycling socks, the best winter cycling gloves, and the best cycling overshoes to fully protect yourself from the elements.

Finally, if talk of waterproof membranes, hydrostatic heads, and breathability figures send you into a spin, I've also put together an explainer on how waterproof fabrics work to help demystify things. There is also the future of waterproof clothing to consider, with the phasing out of PFAS thanks to new regulations causing big changes in the market that affect the whole outdoors industry.

Quick list

Will Jones

Sure there's a lot to be said for sunny riding on glorious smooth roads, but Will seems to derive a perverse enjoyment from heading out in properly miserable weather. He's headed up our waterproof testing for the last two years and has a keen eye for what'll work when the weather really sets in and what'll let you down. Plus, he doesn't have a turbo trainer, so he has to ride outside.

Claire Sharpe

As a level 3 qualified MTB guide, Claire is no stranger to getting filthy on a big day out, and is perfectly placed to judge how women's jackets shape up. Like Will she'd rather spend an evening in the cold, dark, and wet than sit on a turbo, and when she's not riding she's busy plotting events for her club, All Terre Adventures.

In detail: Best waterproof cycling jackets available today

Best waterproof cycling jackets for road

Waterproof jackets for road cycling are, generally speaking, closer fitting, and cut for a more forward leaning position; think a short front and a more heavily dropped tail. This is to improve aerodynamics, as well as to avoid lots of material bunching at the front. You'll be unlikely to find a hood, as they act like wind socks at speed, and breathability is just as important as waterproof-ness.

Given that the PFC ban has effectively discontinued all Shakedry jackets I've opted to take them out of the guide. If you can find them still on sale while stock numbers diminish then they're worth snapping up, as they really are the gold standard - Alternative membranes are good, but for high-intensity riding in the rain nothing can yet match things like the Rapha Pro Team Lightweight Gore-Tex Shakedry or the Castelli Idro Pro 3 for absolute performance. 

With the demise of Shakedry, there's a new kid on the block, and Albion's second jacket, this time aimed at road riders (or all-road riders to be specific) takes another number-one spot. Both the men's and women's versions fit really well, toeing the line perfectly between adding enough room for layering (you could happily pop a thin down layer underneath if you so wish) without ending up too flappy. This also means it never feels restrictive.

The protection, which is ultimately what you're buying a waterproof cycling jacket for, is exceptional, aided by cuffs that cinch down well even on narrow wrists. The neck is a little roomy, and you can't cinch the lower hem, but the bottom is at least aided by pretty tight elastic and a strong silicone gripper. It's breathable enough for hard riding too, and while Pertex doesn't actually publish a breathability figure it feels on a similar level to Gore-Tex Active. 

The cut is slightly less pure-road than others in this section, with a shorter tail, alluding to its intentions for use off-road too. Both Claire and I would probably have liked a slightly longer tail, but in the context of the jacket as a whole, it's not a dealbreaker. 

Finally, the zips are really well thought out, with large tabs at the base that make it possible to open, close and re-do it up even in gloves. Interestingly, instead of a double-ended zip, Albion has chosen instead to add a secondary zip to one side of the main one that extends halfway up to allow you to access your jersey pockets. Frustratingly neither this nor the zip for the chest pocket are waterproof, which is the only real negative for the jacket in terms of design details. In all other respects, it's a truly excellent option that will suit most riders for most types of riding, whether on road or faster off-road excursions. 

Our review of the Albion All Road Pertex Shield Rain Jacket can fill in any further details if you're curious.

The Rapha Core Rain Jacket II fills a similar hole in the market to the dhb Aeron but with some key differences. The fabric used in this case is a little thicker, similar in feeling to the Rapha Commuter Jacket but not quite so clammy next to the skin. It doesn't feel quite as airy as the dhb offering, but on the flip side, it did feel more protective in sustained or heavier weather. Think of it as a budget waterproof cycling jacket for colder conditions; better in the wet and cold, but not so good when the temperature rises, and not as ideal as a secondary-use windbreaker. 

The jacket itself is visually very pleasing. While the Shakedry option is in my view the very top-end of road performance in this sector, I find it hard to resist adding some colour to my outfit and the yellow is cheering on miserable days. In order to counteract the lower breathability of the fabric (sadly Rapha doesn’t offer up figures), there are armpit perforations much like the POC Motion, which certainly help. 

The Rapha Core Rain Jacket II does ape a lot of its design from the Shakedry model, but the cut is roomier to allow for layers, and it’s longer at the front, so better if you don’t have a hyper-aggressive position on the bike. As per the rest of Rapha jackets, I find you need to go up a size from your usual jersey. The hem is a drawstring, like the dhb Tempo, which is no bad thing, and while the offset zip certainly adds an aesthetic point of interest I don’t think it has any real performance benefit; if it did it would also feature on the Shakedry models. 

We have a full review of the Rapha Core Rain Jacket II if you want to know all the details. 

In terms of out-and-out performance, it doesn’t offer what some high-end jackets in this list can, but for the price it is excellent.

The fabric of the Tempo is the most stretchy and flexible of any jacket in this group test, which makes it extremely comfortable to wear, and the inner material is pretty agreeable next to the skin. It’s a gossamer-light feeling, but given that it has an outer fabric it doesn’t have the fragile feel of the Rapha Shakedry offerings. Given the low weight and packability, it would also double up well as a windbreaker in warmer, dryer conditions. On paper, it has specs to rival options that use name-brand membranes like Gore-Tex active, and I'd be inclined to take these with a slight pinch of salt - It feels a bit good to be true that it has a higher waterproof rating than Gore-Tex Pro.

The two-way zip is smooth, and the drawstring hem can seal your lower back away from road spray effectively if you’re not running the best road bike mudguards. It did size up quite large though, so opt for your usual jersey size. Even in my usual jersey size, there’s still room for some layers underneath, and it was almost too long in the arms. On the flip side, Claire found the women's version was far better tailored; flattering, but not restrictive, and tighter than the brand's Trail jacket, as you'd expect.

If you’re not going to commit to riding in the rain all the time, merely venturing out on occasion, or you need a lightweight option to take with you in case the heavens open, then the dhb Tempo Aeron 3 is a really solid choice. 

The Rapha Pro Team Gore-Tex jacket is tied, in my mind at least, with the Albion All-Road in terms of performance, but they fill slightly different niches. The Pro-Team is definitely a jacket for road riding, so is a touch less versatile. That being said, if you only ride the road, this is about as good as it gets in the post-Shakedry landscape. 

The fit is close; racy, but not constricting. Not quite so extreme as the Assos option, but not far off. You'd struggle to fit a down jacket underneath, but a fleecy mid layer would stay lofted. The tail is far more dropped than the Albion, with a higher cut front too, to avoid any bunching when in an aero position.

The cuffs, so often a bugbear of mine on other jackets, are excellent despite only being elasticated. You'd struggle to fit a thick glove inside them, but something thinner and more attuned to hard riding would be fine. The neck on the other hand is a little roomy, and I'd like to see it a bit tighter with some elastic to really seal the elements out.

Gore-Tex is going to keep you dry, that's the bottom line really. In a torrential downpour, you'll be absolutely fine. I only managed to find the limit of breathability on protracted climbs on humid days in between showers, but with the bottom and top of the zip opened up it's definitely not difficult to dump a lot of heat very quickly. 

It's worth noting that, at the time of writing, Rapha has just released a 'Women's Pro Team Gore-Tex Jacket', but it fell outside of the group test timeframe. In due course, we will bring news of its performance, but on the face of things it appears to use standard Gore-Tex rather than Gore-Tex Active as is used here, and so isn't a directly comparable jacket. 

While more expensive than the dhb Aeron, the Endura Pro SL waterproof Shell Jacket fills a similar use. It’s lightweight but feels more sturdy than the dhb and Rapha options. The HiVis yellow colourway is something plenty of cyclists look for in the winter in an effort to stay visible, and this jacket combines this with decent waterproof and breathable credentials. While not a dedicated commuter jacket like the Rapha Commuter or POC Motion, the Pro SL could easily make a great option for both the weekday commute and the weekend club run, especially if you commute on a road bike where the road cut of it will be better for you. 

The fabric is similar to the GV500 gravel waterproof, but a little more breathable, making it more suited to high-tempo riding. There’s a bit of stretch to the fabric, but not a huge amount and the zip is easy to use and double-ended so as to access the jersey pockets. There is a pocket stitched into the left side panel, but to be honest, I didn’t find this overly useful; it’s not secure for anything valuable and in an odd place. One for the odd bar or gel only. 

As with the dhb Aeron, I found myself utilising the Pro SL jacket as a windbreaker too on dry days, especially after dark. Sure, being visible isn’t always the most aesthetic option, but on larger roads, I was definitely glad of it. Go for your usual jersey size here, and you’ll still have room underneath for layers. It’s cut similarly to the Maap Ascend, so if you need to add some insulation you can. One thing that is a potential drawback in the rain is the extremely fleecy collar. While it’s cosy and warm in the dry it can get soggy in the rain, leaving wet material against an area of your skin with a lot of blood flow, which isn’t ideal for staying warm.

For all the juicy details be sure to head to my Endura Pro SL Waterproof Shell Jacket Review.

The Maap Ascend jacket is typical of a classic road cycling waterproof jacket from the days (not too long ago) before things like Shakedry burst onto the scene. It’s cut from a standard three-layer waterproof material in a sporty, but not overly aggressive cut. The cuffs are elasticated, like the Rapha Core, so can get soggy, and are more likely to go under than over gloves. Despite this, they’re also a little loose without gloves, so I found the wind can get up your wrists.

The material is thicker than most on this list with a bit of stretch, and definitely thicker than all of the road options, and as such it feels a little cosier and a little less breathable. I took it out in an absolute downpour and while it did keep me dry from the outside it was quite a sweaty experience, made slightly worse by the giant rubberised inside label between the shoulder blades that left a matching sweat patch on my back. 

Aesthetically I think it’s hard to beat, with three of the four options offering a departure from the norm in terms of colour, and thanks to a slightly more roomy cut with space for layering underneath I see this as an ideal option for those very cold rides where you want to keep the air out and know that if it does rain you’ll still be fine. Both Claire and I found that the combination of a thicker, stiffer zip and thicker, stiffer material means it's likely a jacket that you'll leave on for a whole ride rather than try in vain to stuff into a jersey pocket. "A compliments machine" is how Claire described it to me, based on all the unsolicited positive feedback on how good it looks.

Conversely, doing threshold efforts in it will probably leave you damp from your own perspiration, so it's one for the classic long-and-slow winter riding gang. It comes up a little small, so as per Rapha options you’ll need to size up from your jersey. 

For our UK readers, the MAAP Ascend is currently discounted in selected colours and sizes at Sigma Sports. Men can get up to 56% off, and women can get up to 57% off. 

No other jacket in this guide is cut as aggressively as the Assos Equipe RS Rain Jacket Targa, hereafter referred to as ‘the Schlosshund’. It is extremely short at the front and long at the back, but more than that the back panel is palpably curved to match the shape of a rider in a race position. While standing it feels like they’ve made it wrong, but while on a bike in an aero position, it makes total sense, and leaves very little material to flap about. 

The waterproof fabric, while a three-layer affair, seems to perform more or less as well as the Shakedry options without feeling quite so flimsy. There’s no way to cinch the lower hem, but it is elasticated up tight and covered in a tacky gripper for its entire circumference, so it’s not ever in a position to be loose and flapping about. 

I did find the raw edges of both the cuffs and neck a little less comfy than I’d have liked, and it did give these areas a slightly unfinished feel, but they were still effective enough. Definitely a jacket for going under gloves, though. 

The zip is clearly premium and works very well indeed. I was between sizes and opted to go up from my usual jersey, which was the right course of action. While it is cut better for being on the bike than the Rapha Shakedry, there is a little more room for layering beneath for an equivalent size, so if you are one for riding in thicker layers, or adding an extra insulating mid layer, then this would be the one to go for over the Rapha option. 

Want to find out more about how the Assos Equipe RS Rain Jacket fared? We've got a review for that.

At a few tenths of a gram over 90g in a size small, I found it hard to believe the Supreme could be as protective as it claimed to be. It's easily the lightest jacket on test and is lighter and packs down smaller than many lightweight wind jackets that I've tested.

The fabric is gossamer thin to the point of translucency, with a light stretch to it. The fit is most definitely race, though the tail could be dropped further. I usually wear a small jersey, and a small Supreme is on the cusp of being too tight, especially in the forearms, so if you want to account for a mid-layer then I suggest you size up. 

It's stretchy, it's more breathable than most, it's crazy light and packs down smaller than any old-school rain cape. Water beads off it like it does with a Shakedry jacket too, so what's the catch? Well, that's the RRP. 

At £450 / $500 it's at the absolute top end of jacket price for something that packs very little in added features - the pared-back nature of the jacket is basically a feature in itself, but beyond that, it's bare bones. As a highly protective emergency shell that you'll barely notice in your pocket it is near impossible to beat though, if you can afford it, and for pushing the boundaries alone I think it's worthy of a place in this guide.

To find out if the POC Supreme marks the start of a new chapter in waterproof jackets be sure to read our full review.

Best waterproof cycling jackets for gravel

Gravel jackets are going to add a bit more utility over what road jackets offer. Any come with a hood and side pockets like a walking jacket would, but obviously designed with a helmet in mind. The cut tends to be looser too, to give you the opportunity to layer up for your next adventure. This looser cut does mean they're a bit more flappy at high speeds, but those are less frequent than on the road. 

Now, there's nothing to say you can't just wear a road jacket for gravel riding either; this is what I do if I'm going for speed, but all the options below are better suited to the kind of bikepacking-y, epic days out that you'll no doubt have seen on your Instagram feed every day.

The Albion Zoa Rainshell is the jacket in this list that most closely resembles a general-use, high-performance outdoors waterproof jacket. It’s cut for cycling, but not nearly as much as other options. The dropped tail is subtle, but the hood is equal-best for wearing with a helmet, on a par with the Rapha Trail jacket. In the case of the Albion though, it has a mouldable peak, more akin to what you’d find on a jacket designed for climbing mountains. 

The Pertex Shield Air three-layer waterproof fabric is plenty breathable enough for high-output riding, but not quite so much as the Gore-Tex Infinium of the Rapha Trail. The cut is also a little roomier, allowing some more winter layers underneath if you want to venture out in very cold conditions - I’ve taken it out down to about -15 degrees Celsius, but at this point, it’s more of a test for the mid layers than the shell. 

I see the Zoa rain jacket as ideal for proper backcountry expedition gravel riding, or MTB if that’s your poison. It’s definitely durable enough (I’ve run one for a year and besides a few oil stains it’s held up very well), but the cut lends itself more to a relaxed position, along with the front pockets for storage. My main criticism of the Zoa comes from the cuffs, which have a novel design that doesn’t work as well as a standard Velcro option. The double zip on the pockets is good but don’t pay attention to the marketing that says the pockets are also vents: This is only the case if they’re empty, as if you leave them open when they’re full you’ll lose all your stuff on the trail. I opted for a size up from my usual jersey in this case, because for deep winter use, I like to use this and thicker layers beneath, but you can probably get away with your actual jersey size if you want a closer cut.

After considering all the options available the Albion Zoa also came out on top in our recent Cyclingnews Awards. 

The Albion Zoa Rain Shell certainly did well in testing. Go read the full review if you're curious.

The only nominally gravel-specific jacket in this group test (unless you also read MAAP’s ‘Alt_Road’ as also meaning ‘Gravel’), the GV500 is to my mind the best budget option for gravel riding and can mix it with the more expensive options too. The fabric is similar to that of the Pro SL road jacket from the brand but moderately less breathable. While this may sound like a bad thing if you’re really giving it beans (which it is), for those times when you’re standing around looking at the view, or trying to plug a tubeless tyre in bad weather it keeps you a little more protected from the elements. 

The hood is big enough to accommodate a helmet without being restrictive, and the rubberised shoulders for keeping a backpack in place are a well-thought-out touch. The cuffs, like the road jacket, are well designed with a longer flap on the back of the hand to offer additional coverage. The main reason I recommend this over the dhb Trail if both are available at RRP, is that it feels more durable and has slightly better specs. Gravel riding is harder on equipment, and while I haven’t had the chance to see which lasts longer in real-time, my money is on the Endura. Aesthetically I’d rather the zip storm flap was on the inside, but that’s a pretty minor detail. 

Our full review of the Endura GV500 Jacket after countless hours in the rain should cover any questions you have. 

Much like the dhb Aeron, the dhb Trail jacket represents a quality budget offering for those who brave the rain on occasion rather than regularly venturing out to play on gravel in a deluge. The fabric is most similar to the Rapha Core Rain Jacket, meaning next to the skin it feels quite clammy, but as with most waterproofs (unless you’re using them as a windbreaker too) this is unlikely to happen. 

The RRP is effectively the same as the Endura GV500, but both are regularly discounted and while for the same money, I’d recommend the Endura model, if the dhb Trail is reduced and the Endura isn’t when you’re looking to buy, then the performance is similar enough for the dhb to become the better choice. 

While it’s an MTB jacket, it’s cut well for gravel riding as long as your position isn’t too aggressive. The arms are long enough for the reach of a gravel bike, but the body is a little roomy, meaning anything in the chest pocket may hit your knees if you’re in the drops. The dhb Trail comes up large in the men's, so get your usual jersey size to avoid being swamped, but the women's version is much more true-to-size; Claire found it a flattering fit. We both did slightly lament the lack of adjustable cuffs, but this is a more budget-friendly option so reduced features are to be expected. 

My major gripe with the dhb Trail was the hood: It’s too small to reasonably go over a helmet without the face box being squashed right against your nose and mouth. It’s fine for short downpours, but for extended ones, you’ll want it under your helmet. 

We both found it to be as protective as you'd want, especially for the RRP. The breathability too was bolstered by two large pit vents, but when it gets really cold they may pose more of an issue than a solution. Finally we both wanted more in terms of pockets. If you ride with a hip pack then you're golden, but if not you're going to want to make sure you have storage elsewhere.

Our review of the dhb Trail Waterproof Jacket will fill in all the extra details if you're curious.

Another option that is technically an MTB jacket, but is a prime option if you prefer things a little less racy when riding off-road. The Gore-Tex Infinium is technically not waterproof (it’s what you'll find in new top-end softshell jackets), but the DWR on the outer fabric is enough to shrug off sustained rain for quite some time in my experience. Claire on the other hand did get a bit damp, but this was during a sustained downpour, which isn't what this jacket is pitched at despite what Rapha may have you believe.

The cut is for MTB riding, and is pretty true to size. Given the more relaxed cut, opt for your usual jersey size for this one. Claire found she could probably go for a smaller size, but the looser fit worked well for us both when it comes to layering potential. The dropped tail isn’t as pronounced and the sleeves aren’t quite as long as others, but despite this, it works very well for blasting around the woods at full gas. It’s noticeably more breathable than the other options on the list, and the real bonus is the hood, which can be adjusted easily while riding and doesn’t leave your face being squashed by the face box. The breathability is further enhanced by stretch panels under the armpits, which function as pit perforations do whilst also improving the freedom of movement. 

I wouldn’t want to commit to a whole day in the rain while wearing it, but that’s not what it’s designed for. Gore-Tex Infinium is just Windstopper, but with a new name, rather than an actual waterproof membrane. If you’re riding hard in changeable conditions (regular, light showers) it’s perfect, as it’s breathable enough to not become bothersome and sweaty if it’s not raining, much like the Pro Team Gore-Tex Infinium Jersey, which would also serve a pretty similar purpose if you’d rather keep a road aesthetic.

Head to our Rapha Trail Gore-Tex Infinium Jacket review for all the details.

At 84.2g the Rab Cinder Phantom is to gravel what the POC Supreme is to road, except it costs less than half what the Scandi option does. The Cinder uses a Pertex Shield membrane with absolutely pared-back face and liner fabrics to create a jacket that feels like a cheap plastic throwaway but keeps the rain off as well as much heavier options.

Like the supreme, the main feature is the lack of features. A light, non-waterproof, single ended zip keeps the weight down, though here you get a hood. It, and the cuffs, are elasticated with no adjustment, as is the lower hem, though all are reasonably tight. 

The fit is slim in the body with more roomy arms. You'd happily get a mid-layer under it but may struggle with a puffy unless you size up from your usual jersey size. There's also a little elastic tab in the back of the neck with some elastic to stow the hood away, something I wish all hooded jackets had in some form or another. 

Finally it comes with a stuff sack that features another elastic loop, this time to clip the jacket to the underside of your top tube or under your handlebars, though it would easily stuff into a jersey pocket. One thing both Claire and I found a bit annoying is that the stuff sack isn't actually attached to the jacket in any way, so there's potential for it to get lost if you're not careful.

It's a fantastic emergency shell that performs just as well as a wind breaker thanks to its breathability, and it's better in the rain than you'd expect. A perfect choice for lightweight bikepacking as long as the conditions aren't too dreadful. 

For the full details be sure to check out our Rab Cinder Phantom jacket review. 

This was a hair away from being my top pick for gravel riding. It's truly an excellent waterproof that has served me well in many a downpour. The fit is excellent, and the Gore-Tex membrane is as protective as you'd ever need it to be, even after I've worn the DWR coating out.

With the hood up, which is best under a helmet or the face box gets very claustrophobic, you feel more or less impervious to the elements. The lower hem can be easily cinched one handed with an easy drawstring, which I'd ideally liked to have seen complimented by adjustable cuffs. Yes, you can fit gloves underneath with ease, but I often go without gloves, and breezy cuffs in the cold are not the one.

The real party piece for this jacket comes in the form of a pair of poppers that allow you to tuck the lower front hem of the jacket up inside and hold it in place once you've undone a portion of the waterproof, two way zipper. This means when you get the urge to turn on the after burners and hunker down over your bars you aren't beset by folds of material. It sounds like a gimmick, but in practice it's marvellous.

Given the cut and the performance this, like the Zoa, transcends cycling jackets for me, and instead settles into a truly multi-discipline space with performance off the bike that rivals many of the best hiking jackets. This is a good thing, given the high RRP - It's the most expensive gravel option in my list.

If you want to read more about the Rapha Explore Gore-Tex Jacket then I've penned a full review to give you all the juicy details. 

I always like to include a smock in this guide, and this is the best of the bunch. It features the same Pertex Shield membrane as the Albion Zoa and others in this list, so it's protective enough in really bad weather. It's breathable too, but the lack of a full length zip does limit how much you can vent from the front. To counteract this there is a zip down the left size up to just under the armpit. With both open it's much more airy.

The benefit to opting for a half zip though is that the entire lower front half of the jacket can be given over to one giant kangaroo-pouch pocket with waterproof zips at each end for dual-sided access. You can just throw all sorts in there and it'll take it. There's also a valuables pocket on the back right side that easily swallows a big phone.

It does have that same protective, hunkered-down feeling that you get with both the Zoa and the Rapha Explore. All the zips are waterproof, and the hood easily fits over a helmet. The hem and hood are all adjusted by large press tabs sewn inside the jacket. They're larger than any used by other brands and really help if your dexterity is reduced by a pair of big gloves.

The fit is spot on for fitting bigger layers underneath, definitely making me put it in the same category as the Zoa as a do-it-all option. It's a little slimmer in the body though. My only real bugbears are that if you use a hip-pack or a backpack with a waist belt it makes the front pouch a lot harder to access (though you're likely using your luggage for storage in that case). Finally the cuffs, though wonderfully comfortable and very close fitting for an elasticated option, do feature a really large patch of elastic over the inside of your wrist. If this gets soggy it's got the potential to cause cold hands if you're wearing your gloves over the cuffs. 

If you're aiming for more MTB style though then I'd suggest the Trail Access from Velocio is a better jacket, which conveniently I've included just below this one - They're very similar, but with different fits that make them more attuned to MTB or gravel. 

Our full Velocio Trail Anorak review goes into all the details and makes a case that sacrificing half a zip is worth it for the extra storage space. 

At a glance the Trail Access Hardshell from Velocio looks like the Anorak above, but with a full length zip, and actually to a great degree this isn't far wrong. Both jackets share the same Pertex Shield Air membrane, as used in the Albion Zoa, but with a less bulky outer fabric that leaves it feeling a less hefty jacket overall. Both have the same excellent hood design that adjusts quickly and fits over a helmet with ease, along with the same waterproof zips throughout.

The Hem shares the same great single adjustment toggle on the left side that can be used with gloves easily too, so why bother including both? Despite the differences, the Trail Access Hardshell definitely feels like a jacket more attuned to MTB than to gravel. Despite being the same size in each jacket, the fit of the Trail Access is noticeably more roomy, especially in the body, and the arms are larger too, though they do taper at the wrists to the same elasticated cuffs.

The pockets also share the same perforations in the lining to avoid condensation building up inside them and soaking your electronics. If I was on an MTB ride, with slower speeds and longer time spent downhill I'd reach for this over the Anorak, as you can layer up more easily underneath. If you size down, which I suspect would be possible, you risk losing out on the torso and sleeve length, so pick your poison.

Best waterproof cycling jackets for commuting

Commuting has different demands than either road or gravel, though that's not to say that any of the jackets above wouldn't work on your ride to the office. Commuting though tends to be at rush hour, and so staying visible to drivers is a far greater priority. 

As well as a heavier use of reflective detailing, the materials used tend to be more sturdy, with reinforced shoulders often seen for backpack straps. They also tend to be less breathable, under the assumption that people are rarely riding to work at their threshold power; if you like to smash it on the commute then I recommend a road or gravel jacket instead. 

Finally, no reflective detailing is a viable substitute for the best bike lights, so don't forget to charge up and switch on, even in daylight.

If safety, and visibility especially, is your number one priority then there's really only one option, and that's the Proviz Reflect 360 Plus. While some jackets have reflective details, the Proviz is just entirely reflective all over. If any headlights, bike lights, or just ambient light in general catch it it reflects almost all of it back. It's truly something to behold.

Beyond that though I'll be honest, it's not the most pleasant jacket to wear, and while it kept me dry in the rain the breathability is not great despite the added perforations to the face fabric, and the mesh liner isn't great next to the skin. The fit is definitely on the looser side, so you can stick to your usual jersey size. The women's version looks from the outside to have some tailoring, with a narrower waist, but this somehow doesn't actually translate somehow to a more trim fit; it's boxy whether you're a man or a woman.

You get two pretty cavernous chest pockets with waterproof zips, and a lower back one with a non-waterproof zip. The main zip is also waterproof, and combine with the cinchable hem it keeps water ingress out from down below if you're not using mudguards. The cuffs are adjustable, but it's primitive.

A pair of pit zips do help with the heat exchange when you start pushing it, but this is really a jacket with a sole purpose. The cost of being visible is also being warm, but it's worth considering as, despite it being the least comfortable and most rustly jacket in the guide, I definitely did feel safer while riding home at night while wearing it, as did Claire. Having been close-passed by a few drivers each recently it really was noticeable how much difference the added visibility made to a feeling of safety.

Commuting is especially hard on gear, and if you’re regularly riding to and from work in bad weather you’ll likely want a bit more protection than the Rapha Commuter Jacket can offer before long. The POC Motion sits as something of a crossover between a trail jacket and a commuter, which is definitely a good thing as given its price it’ll save you having to buy two options. 

The material and construction feels very high quality, and the hood is decent too. Not quite as good as that of Rapha and Albion, but better than that of dhb and Endura. The material is a three-layer waterproof, but with added ventilation from pit perforations. The side pockets are good for storing office essentials (keys, pass, chocolate), or if you wear a backpack you can leave them empty and put small items in the chest pocket. One well-designed touch is that the internal zip storm flap is stitched back on itself to prevent snagging. On the flip side though the zip itself isn't a plasticised waterproof model, which feels like an oversight. 

If you want something to ride to work in every day and use in the woods at the weekend you’ll have a hard time finding an option that does both as well as the POC Motion. Plus, especially in the lovely Dioptase petrol blue colour, it’s another looker that’s perfectly fine on the office floor. 

There is a dedicated women's version of this jacket. While it didn't arrive in time for testing for the publication of this guide it will be tested in due course.

The Rapha Commuter jacket is constructed similarly to the Rapha Core rain jacket, but cut very differently. It has a dropped tail to keep your rear end dry, which also features a subtle reflective pattern along with the Rapha wordmark, but it’s designed to be ridden in a much more upright fashion. 

The material is plenty waterproof enough to withstand a downpour for a commute distance, especially if it’s only something it’s going to be asked to do infrequently. It’s the least breathable feeling of the bunch though, on a par with the Proviz, but a large back vent does its best to alleviate any issues with sweating. The hood is effective when properly adjusted, but the adjustment tabs are hidden within the face box meaning you have to unzip the jacket to properly adjust it. It also sits very close to the face. One thing I’d like to applaud for this jacket, in particular, is the stowable hood. The stowage isn’t perfect - both Claire and I found the hood still flaps about as the tab is so long - but it can be unfurled with one hand and it stops it from acting like a wind sock when not in use, which is one of my pet hates. 

The zip is particularly sticky, not that easy to use one-handed despite the large round pull tab, and the cuffs, like with the Core and the MAAP Ascend can get a little soggy. That being said it’s a stylish package to be worn off the bike through the office lobby without feeling self-conscious, and if you’re after something to keep the elements off on the few days you get caught out it’s a solid option, particularly given the price. As per the Trail Jacket, go for your usual jersey size; there’s enough room for your office wear underneath, but even if you wear short sleeves Claire found it not too unpleasant against bare skin.

Check out our Rapha Commuter Jacket review to find out all the juicy details.

If the thought of the ProViz is too much for you, but you still want to be seen the the Altura Nightvision Storm is worth considering in its stead. It goes a little easier on the reflective detailing, opting for a series of dots on the sleeves, shoulders and back which really come into their own when it's time to bust out the hand signals to indicate that you're turning. 

The fit is boxy, both for men and women. Not as much as the Proviz, but still cut like a normal jacket with only a dropped tail to hint at the cycling aims. The lining feels very much like the Rapha Commuter and the Core Rain Jacket II, and is one I definitely prefer to use long sleeves under as it's a little clammy. Oddly the jacket's labelling states that it's waterproof to the ratings listed above, but also 'water repellant', which is usually used to describe jackets that aren't actually waterproof. In any case, it's adequate if you're going to work in moderate rain, but for prolonged heavy downpours we'd both reckon you'd be better off with something a bit more protective. 

The pockets are great for a jacket of this style - two large hand ones, and a chest pocket - though the zips for them aren't waterproof so proceed with caution in a deluge. There's no hood here, but oddly there is an elastic cinch to tighten the neck up. Honestly, we both advise against using it unless you've got a choking fetish; it's pretty unpleasant, and the tall collar does well enough without being tightened.

If you're quick, and the right size, you can pick up a women's version in the Wiggle outlet for up to 53% off.

Chrome has a certain style across all its products. Hardwearing, urban leaning clothing and hardware that purports to reflect New York bike messenger roots. The Chrome Storm Salute jacket really does feel like it would be at home trying to plough through the slush on a Brooklyn Machine Works fixie in February.

The jacket feels incredibly hardwearing, much thicker than most in this list. the face fabric is soft to the touch and rustle free, but beads water off well enough in the time I've had with it. The lining feels more like tarpaulin than anything I've come across before, and while it does wonders at keeping the rain and wind out, it doesn't feel hugely pleasant next to the skin; definitely one for long sleeves underneath.

The hardwear is also all solid. A chunky waterproof zip with large, two way tabs. There's a massive pocket in the back to compliment the two side pockets, and a huge vent at the shoulders not unlike that of the Rapha Explore Gore-Tex to help aid the breathability.

It's not the best in terms of performance, and it's black so (despite reflective cuffs and some other details) it's hardly the most visible, so why include it? Honestly, sometimes my 'commute' is to the pub, and I don't always want to turn up wearing bright yellow. If I'm walking round town it's a jacket I'm more than happy wearing off the bike. While it's cut for cycling I'd actually view this more as an everyday jacket that's got some neat touches that make it more useable on the bike than the other way round.

While it doesn't have a women's version going into 2024, it did have until this point, so you can pick them up for now.

For me a good commuting jacket works well off the bike too, and if you want a parka style jacket that you can ride to the office in, and then head to an Oasis tribute gig afterwards with it done all the way up then you're in luck.

Joking aside, this fills a similar niche to the Chrome Storm Salute, though with a very different style, insofar as it's more an off-bike jacket with features that help when riding than it is a dedicated cycling jacket. 

Take a normal parka, add adjustable cuffs, pit zips, a double ended main zip, and a smattering of reflective details and you're pretty much there. The length does really add some extra protection, but it also very much lends itself to bikes that put you in an upright position - on a road bike with a slammed stem there's a lot of material up front to bunch up, even with the zip undone from the bottom.

Though the specs say it's the same waterproof and breathability rating as the Nightvision Storm, it feels more protective. What's more, the lining is significantly more comfortable next to the skin so I was happy enough wearing this with short sleeves underneath, though most of the time I was throwing it on over a jumper.

As per the Nightvision Storm also, the pockets don't have waterproof zips, so be mindful in really heavy rain. 

To my knowledge this is Castelli's first foray into the world of commuter gear, and it's a pretty great debut. First off I think it needs applauding for making the colour options the same for both men and women, rather than just giving women a choice of purple or a different purple. Its party piece though is the reflectivity.

Like the Proviz it's all-over reflective, but here it takes the form of a web-like pattern of dots that almost resembles a nebula, and though it's far from a scientific test I'd wager this pattern is more eye catching that a solid block of brightness.

You get two decent hand pockets and waterproof zips throughout, though the main zip is only one way, so there's little you can do to avoid the front bunching up if you're on a bike that's got a racy position. 

There aren't any vents, and despite the 20,000mm/20,000g/m2 rating it isn't a jacket that lends itself to hard efforts.  It does feel very well made though, a much more premium offering than others on this list, aided by an external flap on the front for the zip that somehow is without stitching, so makes the whole jacket look seamless.

There is no hem cinch, only thick cuff tabs for adjustability. Inside though there's an internal elastic gaitor that's been lifted straight from the design books of ski jackets. It's effective, but when left undone (when throwing the jacket on in a hurry) it means you either have to stop and do it up, or have the front flaps dangling over your crotch in an unsightly manner. 

All in all it packs a lot in, but it's also got a higher retail price to match. It's also worth noting that there is a dedicated women's version of this jacket. While it didn't arrive in time for testing for the publication of this guide it will be tested in due course.

How to choose the best waterproof cycling jacket for you

Firstly you need to hone in on your intended usage. It’s no good using something like the Assos Schlosshund if you’re going to use it to ride to work on an upright dutch bike. Likewise, if you’re planning on doing fast road miles then the Rapha Commuter isn’t what you need. 

Some options will happily crossover; you can easily use a road-style jacket for gravel if your position is similar and you don’t mind things getting muddy, and your output is the same. The more gravel and MTB focussed options though will lend themselves to the more exploratory side of riding, however. 

Next, the real key thing is to be honest about what sort of conditions you’ll be riding in. If you quake in your boots at the mention of drizzle then a Shakedry jacket is going to be a waste of your money, but if you genuinely are going to be riding in heavy rain then a more premium jacket, whether road, gravel, or commuter, is going to be a better option for you if you can afford it.