Altura Nevis III Waterproof Jacket

The Altura Nevis III men's waterproof jacket is a decent option for commuting and general riding that won't break the bank. It also looks neutral enough off the bike and lends itself well to other outdoor activities.

Using Shield technology, which basically boils down to our old friend polyester, the outer is described as windproof and waterproof. In real terms that means it can withstand a seriously heavy downpour, and I've never suffered in cold, blustery winds. Rain simply beads up and rolls off before it can sneak inside. Seams are taped, and flaps around the zippers and pockets also do an excellent job of keeping it from finding a way in.

> Find your nearest dealer here

Inside, we have a fleece-lined collar to keep this area warm and the wet stuff out. Like most budget polyesters, the jacket features a mesh type lining, which serves to assist trafficking of sweat while protecting the outer layer against premature wear. 

Discreet but generous venting across the shoulders and sides helps, but I wasn't surprised to find myself slightly damp around the lower back and pits after 25 minutes' concerted effort, although I never felt boiled in the bag, even when hustling home at 95rpm on some very mild October evenings.

Occasional outings on green lanes and trail cut-throughs suggest the outer shell is pretty hardy, and everything washes nicely at 30 degrees.

Before I go much further, a quick word about sizing and cut. Altura describes the Nevis III as a relaxed fit, which shouldn't be interpreted as baggy, just less tailored than its justly popular Night Vision. User-friendly drawcords mean it's easily adjusted to taste and layers.

Altura kit tends to come up a little large, so no surprise that the medium fitted my own frame perfectly and, though easily dismissed as clever marketing, its ErgoFit 3D Patterning seems to live up to its hype: long enough at the back and arms and unrestricted around the shoulders. Hunkered low on the drops, battling headwinds at 30mph, there's sufficient protection for the lower back and no tendency to flap noisily.

Velcro cuffs continue the tailored theme and slip neatly over most winter gloves for a seamless, weather cheating overlap.

Pockets are another feature that should never be overlooked. The Nevis has three, all well proportioned. A nelson for your tech/other valuables, two at the hip – great for keys and parking the hands when mooching around, and the time-honoured 'poacher's pocket' at the rear. This will swallow a pair of gloves, midi pump, spare tube and similar nick-nacks without feeling overburdened.

Clever Scotchlite detailing here and at other select points bring the jacket to life at a sensible distance when graced by street and vehicle lighting. This is very welcome regardless of the colour but especially when black's involved.

> Check out our guide to the best waterproof cycling jackets

Ultimately, there are some limitations I've come to expect from this end of the market, but nonetheless the Nevis III is a well thought out jacket. For short to relatively long commutes with the mercury ranging between 8 and 15 degrees and general riding between 15 and 20mph, everything has worked in good proportion. Its chameleon characteristics mean it works with Lycra longs, bike-specific commuter/mountain bike trousers and casual chinos or jeans, and the more relaxed fit is a bonus if you also want it to earn its keep off the bike.

Verdict

Competent budget jacket for commuting and general outdoor use