Madison Prime Men's Waterproof Jacket

Look at the spec and Madison's Prime waterproof jacket looks like just another decent quality entry-level technical model to add to the pile. Look at the jacket though and you've got a really versatile jacket that doesn't, as the blurb puts it, "scream cyclist" and is ideal for round-town duties and other outdoor activities too.

The Prime is made from two-layer polyester-the outer shell with tapered seams protects the rider from the foulest weather while the mesh lining, pit zips and vented back afford reasonable climate control so long as you don't go overboard with the layering. However, a more tasteful colourscheme, hip pockets and civilian cut mean it attracts the right sot of attention when mooching around town without feeling compromised in the saddle. The Prime ensures a flattering effect worn with baggies so shouldn't be overlooked by budget conscious mountain bikers while it also easily transitions to other sports such as running and sailing.

Detailing is generally excellent. There's the full complement of well positioned Scotchlite reflectives, long tail for protecting the lower back when hunkered low on the drops, elasticated cuffs and articulated arms prevent it feeling like the proverbial cardboard box too. Pockets are limited to three- zippered hip and breast. The former fall naturally to the hands when walking or can be zipped to prevent wallets, keys and similar valuables falling out while the breast gobbles lager compact cameras, GPS/smart phones without feeling uncomfortable or overburdened. Sadly, this default stash-point failed prematurely but the others have been fine and it is the sort of thing that should be covered under warranty.

Common to others at this price point, water/wind proofing takes precedence over breathability, which becomes very apparent on sustained efforts. Mercifully, it traffics moisture from the skin pretty swiftly and I've never felt boiled in the bag when the mercury nudges the high teens. Spirited trailblazing and generic singletrack shenanigans' failed to ravage the shell, which washes beautifully in mild detergent once it starts looking and smelling the wrong side of socially acceptable.

Verdict

Versatile do-it-all budget jacket that's styled to wear off the bike too