Endura Xtract Jacket

As summer becomes a distant memory and the temperature begins the steady decline into winter, now is the time of year for a lightweight jacket like the new Xtract from Scottish firm Endura.

There's really so much choice of clothing these days that there is no excuse to get caught out by the weather, or dodgy weather forecast. The pitch with the Xtract jacket is a waterproof jacket that is light enough to be rolled away and stuffed in a jersey pocket when not needed. This sort of jacket is hugely useful whether you're commuting every day or doing sportives.

The fabric Endura use is surprisingly breathable and proved comfortable for wearing through a short shower the other day. Endura claim it's completely waterproof and that certainly appears to be the case. I've used it on a handful of rides, both starting in the rain (the downside of testing clothing!) or pulling it on during the ride when the weather made a turn for the worse, and it's kept the rain out.

It's a reasonably fitted jacket, though I still found the size small came up a little on the large side, despite Endura labelling it as an athletic cut. However, there is plenty of space for a good few layers underneath though. Endura offers a range of sizes to suit most body shapes and sizes and as with most clothing, it really is best to try it on before you part with your money, if you can.

When you don't need to wear the Xtract, it packs down small enough to fit into a typical jersey or jacket pocket. It comes with a separate stuff sack but I binned that off immediately as it's just unnecessary really except as a handy way to store it in the wardrobe.

The jacket is well constructed and has proven very durable so far, which is a good thing as it's the sort of jacket that can see a lot of abuse as it's first to be flung on the floor when you get back from a ride, and could spend a lot of its life scrunched up in a pocket.

A couple of mesh panels around the back further help with the movement of hot air away from the body. There's a dose of reflective details and the full-length zipper is lined with a storm flap. The fit is improved with elasticated cuffs, neck and hem, and there's a small zipped pocket on the side.

All things considered, this is a great performing lightweight waterproof jacket that is breathable enough to be worn for an entire ride, whether it's a sportive or the daily commute. It's packable enough to serve as a good emergency jacket so you have no excuse to get caught in the rain.

And the best thing about is it costs just £55, which is really good value. You could spend a lot more, but why would you when this one works so well?

It's available in a range of colours, and men and women-specific versions.

Verdict

Superb waterproof packable jacket at a great price