Polaris Aqualite Extreme Waterproof Jacket
Polaris Aqualite Extreme is a lightweight, highly breathable waterproof cycling jacket with fully taped seams. Polaris Aqualite Extreme Waterproof Windproof Jacket Features:
Full length front zip wi ....Read More...
I recently decided to commit to "Commuting" and needed a waterproof jacket. It had to be bright, lightweight and able to pack down small to go in my bag (for those days when it is actually dry!). After doing some research i narrowed it down to the Montane Velo H20 - DHB Minima S and this one. I went for this as it was the cheapest and i have had an Aqualite in the past which worked well. I have just got home from work which is a 7 mile run and it was chucking buckets with a 16mph wind and this jacket kept me not only dry but kept the win out aswell. Really impressed with how it coped. I have given it 4* as im not sure how breathable it is. I wear a Merino Baselayer underneath and feel comfortable but i do sweat a lot even in winter as i like to go at speed rather than a leisurely pace so you need to bear that in mind if your a sweaty betty like me as there are no vents.
Light weight, packs really small, good body fit (XXL - I am 6'6"), well made. Took it for a moderately vigorous MTB ride, 2-4 deg C, wind, partly cloudy - ended quite wet, including the base layer. Tried again next day walking the dog, similar conditions, better result - nearly dry. Looks like I am going to end up with two jackets: a breathable water resistant windbreaker plus this one for a downpour. Considering a price and size of a Goretex jacket could be a reasonable compromise. Also, I am not all that sure that even the most breathable jackets can cope with high respiration levels unless using features like armpit zips, which in turn increase the bulk.
Like wearing a plastic bag, it keeps the rain out but you get wet anyway. Poor breathe-ability. I wore it for a short ride on a cool dry day just to keep the wind off and came back soaked, with water running down the inside, and I don't normally sweat much at all. On the plus side, it packs away small enough to stow in a jersey back pocket, but I can't imagine a time when I'll feel desperate enough to put it on again.