The B’Twin 500 Cycling Jacket
I’d never been a big fan of high visibility clothing, probably as a reaction to the fact that here in the UK we are the “high viz capital of the world”. However, with the evenings drawing in come September, and some cycle routes that contained a substantial portion under heavily wooded roads – I decided that it would be useful to invest in something with more visibility.
I’d looked at the stock at my local Evans, and at Wiggle.com online, and it seemed that good jackets could be quite expensive. However a quick trip in to Decathlon Lakeside whilst I was on the way back from visiting a client revealed the B’Twin 500 jacket above. With a 42″ chest, I found that to achieve a body hugging fit a Medium sized jacket was a good choice. I almost felt stylish!
I had a chance to use the jacket almost immediately on a 30 mile evening ride around Luddeswon, Stansted and West Kingsdown. The jacket provide good wind protection, and despite its low price and fairly low-tech fabric it remained remarkably dry throughout the ride. I think this is probably due to the generous horizontal back venting which enables much of the sweat to escape. [I am generally a sweaty chap, and can get cold when sweat condenses on the inside of clothing].
The jacket also had a very useful zipped bak pocket which was ample for Snickers, a phone and a packet of tissues. To actually buy, or simply find out more, check the link here.
VERDICT:
Performance 6/10
Value for Money 9/10