Which cycling jacket for winter? Many cyclists are currently asking themselves this question. I would like to present three jackets from different manufacturers here. For the German manufacturer Biehler, the Deep Winter Cargo jacket from the winter 2023/2024 is entering the race. From the Australian manufacturer Maap, I present the 2024 winter model. Some of these jackets are already available at a reduced price. From the Slovakian manufacturer Isador, I have chosen the product currently on offer, which hardly differs from the currently reduced jacket on the Isador marketplace (buy tip). All three jackets are available in men’s and women’s versions.
BIEHLER DEEP WINTER CARGO JACKET
The Biehler Deep Winter Cargo Jacket is a very warm, wind and waterproof jacket made from Italian premium Vagotex® material. It is very breathable (<20,000g m²Pa/W). There are two small zip pockets at chest height. The back has three pockets with open access, whereby the middle pocket is typically larger than the two side pockets. The 2-way front zipper is partially covered to make it windproof. The collar is cut slightly higher than on regular Biehler jerseys and vests. For me personally, it should be even higher. Biehler specifies a temperature range of -10 to 5 degrees. The jacket is actually very warm and I never wear it at plus 5 degrees Celsius upwards. At zero to 4 degrees the jacket is perfect. At slightly below zero, the insert is ok, but the jacket is cut shorter for running, which means that the lower body and lower back are not protected from the cold and wet. In my opinion, Biehler should rethink the race cut: who races in sub-zero temperatures? According to Biehler ECO+FAIR, the jacket is made in Portugal. There are reflective inserts and logos for better visibility.
MAAP Apex Winter Jacket 2.0
The Maap Apex Winter Jacket 2.0 is made from a 4-way stretch material, so that any movement on the bike is possible and you don’t have the feeling of being restricted. The outer material is waterproof. In addition, the jacket has sealed, thermo-taped seams and a 2-way YKK Aquaguard® zipper, so that any rain/snow stays outside. The inside features a C-change™ membrane for temperature regulation. The Maap Apex Winter Jacket 2.0 has a slightly higher cut collar for extra warmth, which is an important criterion for me personally, but the collar could be a little longer for me. In general, the jacket could be a little longer for me. However, it is cut longer than the Biehler jacket. The jacket has three back pockets and a single concealed back pocket with a zipper. The manufacturer specifies a temperature range of 0 to 12 degrees. I find this jacket far too warm above 10 degrees. Even at 7 or 8 degrees Celsius I only wear a thin jersey or undershirt underneath. With thick underwear, the jacket is also suitable for slightly sub-zero temperatures, but the jacket must have been chosen one dress size larger for this, as the sleeves are quite tight.
ISADORE Signature Deep Winter Softshell Jacket
The ISADORE Signature Deep Winter Softshell Jacket is made from recycled GRS material and free from harmful PFC compounds in the EU. The Quickdry Frame® technology used to regulate moisture ensures faster removal of moisture from the inside. The Windtex® thermo-regulating softshell membrane fabric keeps out wind and water with a water column of 10,000 mm. It has a DWR coating and excellent breathability (25,000g m²Pa/W). It is highly elastic thanks to a four-way stretch system. ThermoRoubaix® fabric on the sides and inside ensures increased elasticity in the fit. Sealed seams and the 2-way YKK® Aquaguard® zipper ensure waterproofness, so that even light rain or snow are no problem. For intensive rides where there is a risk of overheating, the YKK® Aquaguard® zippers in the armpits can be opened (not on last year’s model). Reflective lettering and patches ensure visibility. There are also three spacious back pockets and an additional water-repellent pocket. Due to its comparatively long cut and high collar, the ISADORE Signature Deep Winter Softshell Jacket is my first choice in sub-zero temperatures. I can only confirm the -8°C to 10°C range of use stated by the manufacturer for temperatures up to 5 degrees.
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All information without guarantee. Article contains unpaid advertising due to brand naming
