Showers Pass
Elite 2.1 Men’s and Women’s Jacket ($249 MSRP)

There certainly are things in life you can skimp on. But with waterproof jackets, you definitely get what you pay for. So, while 250 bones may seem like a lot for what looks like a windbreaker, the moment you’re caught in wet weather for any extended length of time, you’ll know then and there it was worth every penny.

What it comes down to is this: it’s easy to make something waterproof (a garbage bag with holes cut in the arms is waterproof). It’s easy to make something breathable, too. But making something waterproof AND breathable? Apparel companies throw their best brains at the problem and still come up short. And when they do come up short, you end up with a jacket that leaks (leaving you wet and cold). Or, you end up getting sweaty and clammy (again, rendering you wet and cold).

The Showers Pass Elite 2.1 has traditionally been a benchmark in this category. And recently I was “lucky” enough to test one when I got caught in a chilly, heavy downpour. Suffice to say, it more lived up to expectations. Despite a full hour riding in rain with no fenders, it kept me warm and dry.

In addition to a higher price, you can tell a quality rain jacket by all the tags hanging off of it when it’s new. These tags denote all the technologies that were incorporated into making the jacket. The Elite 2.1 came festooned with no fewer than four of these tags. They mentioned the top-end eVent waterproof/breathable fabric, YKK AquaGuard zippers, 3M Scotchlite reflective materials, plus the Showers Pass specs tag listing all the other cool features. These features include taped seams, a rear ventilation port, a light loop (for your red rear blinky light), media and cargo pockets, plus pit zips that also allow you to get at things in your jersey pockets (a very clever feature). In addition, it has an exaggerated cut at the waist, ensuring full rear coverage no matter how aero you get on your bike. In short, this thing was clearly designed by people who ride in wet weather a lot.

One thing I especially like about the jacket is the fit. Specifically, it’s just roomy enough to allow for a layer or two underneath without being so loose it flaps in the breeze.

If you’re looking for more of a race/training-oriented piece, Showers Pass offers a selection of jackets that are lighter and more form fitting. But the Elite 2.1 and its hooded counterpart The Refuge offer the company’s most waterproof and most breathable options. For that reason, they get our nod.

Purchase Information:
Men’s
https://www.showerspass.com/products/mens-elite-21-jacket

Women’s
https://www.showerspass.com/products/womens-elite-21-jacket

Next Gift: Rapha Bidons