Insulated jackets are brilliant for freezing cold temperatures; they provide body warming insulation that a shell jacket rarely offers. Insulated jackets are much more sophisticated, with varying levels of insulation available. This can be in many forms, for example the level of down fill - the higher the fill level, the more insulated you’ll be. You’ll be able to find the thick insulation for cold weather expeditions, or lightweight insulation to wear under your waterproofs as part of a layering system.

Shell jackets, often called soft or hard shell jackets, are designed to protect you from varying degrees of weather and temperatures. These jackets will be either waterproof, water resistant or windproof.

Full-day epics or winter rides in prolonged rain?
A waterproof jacket will protect you from all kinds of rain, wind and whatever else Mother Nature can throw at you. They have taped seams, elasticated or adjustable cuffs and hems and most importantly are created out of a fully waterproof rather than a coated fabric.

Looking for lightweight, packable protection from the elements? Commuting or racing?
Water resistant cycling jackets usually have a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) layer that causes water to bead up and roll off. These jackets will stay cooler and be more breathable than their waterproof counterpart. So choose wisely, depending on where and how long you’ll be riding for.