Madison Prima women's jacket

A rain jacket is not the most exciting cycling product (seeing rain NEVER gets me excited when I'm about to go out cycling!), but the Madison Prima is a nicely priced function jacket. I was surprised the price wasn’t much more expensive given the cut, general attention to detail and quality of the product.

It comes in three different colours - red, black and bright yellow. I personally don't tend to wear black while cycling unless I can light it up with other accessories, but the red and yellow versions are nice and bright! It's fairly light, although not exceptionally - it feels more like a good quality garment rather than lightweight.

The jacket has plenty of pockets, all with zips to keep items safe when you're riding. There are also vent panels to ensure you don't over heat on the bike and there are several reflective details.

It's marketed as an entry level garment, but has the feel of something more expensive. It's designed to offer 'protection on the daily commute' and is 'light, breathable and waterproof with a subtle cycle-focused cut for relaxed fit on or off the bike making it a perfect everyday jacket for all kinds of outdoor endeavours packed full of features, this cross-purpose jacket will protect you from the elements'.

Fabric is M:Tec 5000 waterproof and breathable fabric and seams are taped. It's kept me dry so far and it's been comfortable to wear. The collar is fleece lined which makes it feel nice to wear and keeps you warmer on a cold day!

The sleeves are the right length for cycling and not too long for everyday wear, which was impressive as my arms are pretty short! Someone with long arms might find them a little short perhaps, but the fit was perfect on me.

It’s difficult to get really excited about a jacket that is designed as such a functional item, but this is a nice jacket at a good price. I’ve worn it on and off the bike, finding it comfortable, useful and well fitting each time – even got one compliment! At the prices I’ve seen it around I’d say it’s a good purchase. But if you’re a concerned cycling fashionista then this probably isn’t the jacket for you.

I wouldn’t wear it over a long commute, but it seems ideal for short city commutes as long as you have some decent mud guards and / or waterproof leggings for really wet days.

Verdict

Well fitted, well-priced rain jacket that works well on and off the bike.