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DHB Wickham eVENT Waterproof JacketDHB Wickham eVent jacket

DHB Wickham eVENT Waterproof Jacket

9
by Shaun Audane
UPDATED Thu, Oct 15, 2015 04:24

First Published Mar 14, 2009

0
£119.99

VERDICT:

9
10
A superb garment at a reasonable price given the level of performance
Weight: 
0g
Contact: 
www.wiggle.co.uk
How we test

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Available in a choice of red or black, dhb’s Wickham eVent jacket is likely to prove a hit whatever your style of riding. Made from eVent, a three-layer breathable nylon waterproof fabric, it is designed to keep the rider completely dry and it delivers excelent performance in all weathers.

Compared with more traditional jackets the Wickham’s unlined shell feels relatively spartan and isn’t as effective as some at combating wind-chill. The complete absence of pockets will deter some commuters and tourists. However, performance riders will find that Velcro cuffs and single-handed drawstring waist give a nigh on perfect fit and they're easily adjusted on the fly. The Wickahm is broad across the shoulders, I found the large comparatively generous around the chest and so although it is close fitting i could get an extra layer under it  without feeling restrictive - useful for combatting wind chill.

The red is classy and highly visible in low light. Cut is ideal for performance cycling, long at the back to prevent chill when hunched low on the drops while the pronounced, lined collar guards against rain cascading down the neck. Unusually, it doesn’t brush annoyingly with modern helmets when looking over your shoulder.

The most notable difference between this and less sophisticated, PU based garments is the continual climate-control; moisture is transported immediately from the skin, I stayed completely dry-even after sustained effort. There’s no clamminess and no sweat patches. The tapered seams and waterproof YKK zip don’t leak even in the foulest of downpours while the tasteful reflective piping and logo add welcome night time security.

Care is surprisingly simple and reminiscent of Gore-Tex. Regularly machine wash at 40 degrees using liquid detergent, rinse twice, allow to drip dry and (steam) iron on a warm setting to rejuvenate the finish. Simple. Whilst by no means cheap, the Wickham continues dhb’s reputation for performance and value and paired with the over-trousers, offers the last word in four season’s riding pleasure.

Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL

Verdict

A superb garment at a reasonable price given the level of performance. Unparalleled weather protection and rider comfort.

road.cc test report

Make and model: DHB Wickham eVENT Waterproof Jacket

Price: 119.99

Size tested: L

Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

The Wickham is a performance waterproof and breathable jacket designed for everyone from dyed in the wool roadies through to cross country mountain bikers. I found it an ideal riding companion whether pootling through town or battling through green lanes.

Tell us some more about the techincal aspects of the product?

eVent is a three layer fabric very similar in principle to Gore-Tex in that it allows sweat to escape whilst locking the elements out. This is further enhanced by tapered seams and a waterproof zip.

Rate the product for quality of construction:
 
9/10

Seems a very hardy fabric under normal conditions and isn't overly affected by brushes with bramble, silt, spray and other daily contaminants.

Rate the product for performance:
 
9/10

Really good both in terms of waterproofing and breathability

Rate the product for durability:
 
9/10

Seems very hardy and should remain in good service in so long as the care instructions are observed.

Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
 
9/10

Extremely lightweight given the level of performance.

Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
 
9/10

Only equalled by a Vaude eVent jacket which folded into its own carry-sack.

Rate the product for value:
 
8/10
 

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

Faultlessly - a joy to wear in all contexts.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

Everything – fit, colour, cut – was all spot-on.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

Nothing

Did you enjoy using the product? Yes

Would you consider buying the product? Yes

Would you recommend the product to a friend? Definitely

Overall rating: 9/10

About the tester

Age: 35  Height: 1m 81  Weight: 70 kilos

I usually ride: Rough Stuff Tourer Based around 4130 Univega mtb Frameset  My best bike is: 1955 Holdsworth Road Path and several others including cross & traditional road

I've been riding for: Over 20 years  I ride: Most days  I would class myself as: Experienced

I regularly do the following types of riding: cyclo cross, commuting, touring, fixed/singlespeed, mtb,

Wickham
Waterproofs
Jacket
dhb
Shaun Audane

Shaun Audane is a freelance writer/product tester with over twenty-eight years riding experience, the last twelve (120,000 miles) spent putting bikes and kit through their paces for a variety of publications. Previous generations of his family worked at manufacturing's sharp end, thus Shaun can weld, has a sound understanding of frame building practice and a preference for steel or titanium framesets.
Citing Richard Ballantine and an Au pair as his earliest cycling influences, he is presently writing a cycling book with particular focus upon women, families and disabled audiences (Having been a registered care manager and coached children at Herne Hill Velodrome in earlier careers)

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