Gore Bike Wear

Element WindStopper Active Shell Zip-Off Jacket - Men's

This time of year, every season, bicycling apparel companies step up with pieces they claim are the one-and-only jacket you need for your cold-weather riding this year. While it's true that many live up to the promise of being both warm and breathable for a variety of conditions, few can match the all-around versatility of garments like the Gore Bike Wear Element Windstopper AS Zip-Off Men's Jacket, thanks to its easily-removed sleeves that turn the jacket into a vest in seconds.

But that's only half the genius of this particular Element jacket. The other half? The fabrics. Gore employs its proven Windstopper Active Shell material to ensure that the wind and cold don't ruin your ride. The material, sometimes abbreviated WS AS, is a very light but very tough two-layer fabric that gives you superb protection from the wind and even light rain while still allowing accumulated moisture within to evaporate quickly and efficiently. As a bonus, like we said, it's very light, making it easily packable, particularly those sleeves once you roll them up and stuff them in a pocket to transform the jacket into a wind-ready vest.

The Element Zip-Off jacket is easy to live with beyond its convenience, too. The elbows are preshaped and the collar is ergonomically designed for comfort in the cycling position. The jacket's relatively long tail prevents spray upon your rear, and the entire lower hem can be adjusted with an elastic draw cord. There's one zippered chest pocket up front and a center rear zippered pocket on the back, as well, and for safety's sake, there are reflective logos, piping, and other details to ensure that you're visible along the roads when the sun's not out.

The Gore Bike Wear Element Windstopper AS Zip-Off Men's Jacket is available in five sizes, from Small to XX-Large, and in the colors Black, Splash Blue, Brilliant Blue, Black/Neon Yellow, Red, and Fresh Green.