A good jacket doesn’t just protect you from the elements, it also makes you more visible to drivers, and that can only be a good thing. Even if you’re making a quick journey through town, you can’t depend on street lights or a car’s headlamps for illumination. According to the CTC, the UK’s National Cyclists Organisation, Road Vehicle Light Regulations require cyclists using public roads between sunrise and sunset to have front and rear lamps as well as rear and pedal reflectors. But we think more is even better. With that in mind, here are our suggestions for jackets that will not only look great but make you easier to see.
Pearl Izumi
Evans Cycles carries this light-weight (115 gr.) jacket that will protect you from rain and wind. And, it has hand-warming pockets plus an additional mid-body pocket. This is the ideal jacket for the commuter – you can tuck it away into your backpack before you arrive at the office.
Altura Night Vision
The Cycle Store is the place to go for both women’s and men’s versions of this jacket. It comes with reflective panels on the arms and chest – a key safety feature. And, the fabric stretches to give you a closer and more comfortable fit.
Craft Performance
At Always Riding you’ll find a selection of Craft Performance jackets. My favourite is the light jacket in yellow, some might say slightly neon. It weighs only 38 grams and is long enough to give your backside the coverage it deserves. It also packs into its own pocket and has mesh under the arms that make all the difference when it starts to warm up a bit.
We will also be looking at the best bike lights in the near future. When you’re cycling on a winter night, being lit up like a Christmas tree is a definite advantage. Make sure to also have a good pair of specs if you need them. It’s all very well being seen by others, but if you need Dita Suglasses and you don’t have them, you could be just as much of a menace to them as they are to you!
