Sadly no stores near me have the Roam Jacket in stock to try on first – so hoping to get some second opinions before I drop $200 AUD!
I started cycling to work recently — it’s about 18km/11mi one way, along a moderately hilly path that runs next to a creek. There’re only about 2km/1.2mi where I need to share the road with cars. Overall it’s a pretty great ride.
However after a few weeks, I’ve realised I should probably ditch my bulky 7-year-old puffer jacket for something more comfortable and durable on bike.
My criteria are:
— Can handle Melbourne weather, which can swing from sunny/breezy to rainy/chilly pretty quickly
— Can handle being sprayed with mud and being whipped by branches (I bike past some unruly gardens)
— Don’t need full-on Goretex gear just yet but it would be good if it can handle a shower or two during a 1-hour ride
— Won’t look ridiculous or be uncomfortable if I need to go grocery shopping/grab a drink at the pub etc on the way home
— Not too hot, but will help block against wind in winter. The coldest winter rides would probs be between 5-10C, very occasionally down to 0C
The Roam jacket LOOKS like it meets that criteria, but it’s hard to say without seeing in person! I’ve also considered the Gorewear Lupra jacket and the Rapha Women’s commuter jacket… which I love except for the giant RAPHA logo on the back.
Any advice welcome!!
by thornstein