Suggestions for a good winter cycling jacket...

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Anon2
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My trusty Cannondale jacket (circa 2005) zipper bit the dust.  I now need a new winter cycling jacket, with the addition of base layering of course, that is warm down to 15 degrees F.  The Cannondale jacket fit that need and was more like a jacket for scuba diving than cycling.  It worked great.

I've been searching around and I cannot find anything that will work in those temps. It seems like that type of jacket isn't made anymore.  Has anyone found a winter jacket that will work in temps down to 15F?

TBrilliant
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Joined: 11/04/2010
fix it

replace or have the zipper repaired.

Anon2
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I did investigate this option

I purchased a new zipper for $5.  Real nice one too.  Went to two different tailors and the best price is $45 to install - has to do with the amount of labor involved.  

Since I've worn this jacket so much the jacket itself is almost worn out too.  I was hoping someone knows of a good replacement.  If I can't find one, I will replace the zipper.

CWood
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zipper

Hi-Saw your post about the broken zipper.

I'm a seamstress and NYCCer. I might be able to replace the zipper for you for $30-$35, but I would have to see the jacket first or some photo details of how it's installed.

If you're interested, I live on the #6 train in East 30s. Be glad to help if I can.

 

Carol

Anon2
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Thank you for the offer...

Thank you for the offer.  My wife wants to put in the zipper but I do think it is too much effort for the well used condition the jacket is in.  I'm going to let her try but also let her know not to waste too much time on it. 

 

JHerzfeld
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Zippers

We happen to be blessed here in NYC with a great source for zippers:

 

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/19/nyregion/19zipperman.html?scp=1&sq=zipperstop&st=cse

 

I get through the winter with a waterproof windbreaker (Mavic Vision; not so great, but very visible blaze orange with reflective stripes) and as many layers crammed under it as needed. If I'm not going to be pedaling hard, though, a windproof fleece outer layer does the job fine.

 

Jim N
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Joined: 11/08/2010
Gore

I'd probably try replacing it first, but for what it's worth, my Gore winter cycling jacket with zip-off sleeves is amazing.  Amazing.  I can't even wear it when the temperature is over freezing, because I overheat, yet it's light.

NLawson
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+1

I have had good luck with my Gore jacket.  Mine has zipper vents which are helpful.  It is too warm for much above 32 degrees unless recovery pace (for me at least).  I have used it in the upper teens.

Anon2
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What model Gore Jacket is this....

What model Gore Jacket is this?

NLawson
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Gore Tool

http://www.gorebikewear.com/remote/Satellite/PROD_JTOOLP?landingid=1208436857421A

I had tried on the road jackets and they were too tight on my arms with base layer(s).  This had a little more room w/o being baggy.  mine is from 2007.

Rmarcus
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Same problem with my Gore also

My wife bought me a Gore cycling jacket that was suppose to be my winter Goto winter commuting outer layer. fyi my commute is about 23 each way No matter how hard I tried I always ended up sweating from it during the commute. Base layer, Short sleeve, even Sleeveless I just couldn't stay dry, As Nick stated riding at a recovery speed could help but when it got brutally cold (under 25) you want to get home...fast.

The one problem I guessed was a lack of pit zips. I spoke to Gore and they said that their clothing breathed so well that pit zips were not needed....LMFAO. I sold the jacket last winter.

In "MY" experience most jackets do not breathe enough for my use in winter. I use different base layers and Jerseys to mix and match for the temps and speed I will use during my commute or on the weekends.

My best purchase for the winter is a LG vest with rear mesh and pockets.

With my chest protected, I am pretty good until my feet freeze up.

Additionally I carry on my commuter a Voler thin windbreaker with side mesh vents incase the winds get crazy.

Sadly I have jerseys, jackets and base layers that were suppose to be the answer to my needs. If the jacket you have works it may very well be worth trying to repair it, just a thought.

Robert

kaalpurush
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Joined: 11/22/2010
Gore Phantom

+1 for Gore

My best investment in cycling apparel. The sleeves are removable so it works as a half sleeve jacket if temp rises. Between 30-40 all I need is baselayer and then put the jacket on top, construction is very good and material is light.

Hope this helps.

LPress
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I'm a fan of pit zips

My jacket is Gore also and I like it. My reason for choosing it is that the pit zips give you some flexibiity when you get too hot.

edelk
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Winter Jacket - Castelli Espresso Due Jacket

Peloton Magazine recently reviewed a bunch of winter cycling jackets. One of the best seems to be the Castelli Espresso Due Jacket ($299):

http://pelotonmagazine.com/Goods/content/11/1252/Castelli-Espresso-Due-Jacket

 

 

abrowning
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Assos makes a men's jacket

Assos makes a men's jacket for sub-freezing that looks pretty intense.  Also very expensive, but you get what you pay for here.

edeuser
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Mavic Inferno

Check out the Mavic Inferno jacket.  http://www.mavic.com/en/product/apparel/outerwear/apparel/Inferno-Jacket

 
I've had it for a month and a half and love it.  It's not windstopper which I actually prefer because it's heavily insulated but breathes incredibly well.  With a longsleeve base layer and micro fleece midlayer i've been out on days when the "real feel" is 10-15 deg F and been warm enough to do an easy recovery ride.  I wore it on the WUSS ride this past saturday with a silk weight base layer and all of the vents open and was sweating even at the beginning of the ride.  If the day is super windy I'd maybe consider adding a gilet though.
  
A few notes about sizing: the arms are long, which is great for a normally-proportioned person when stretched out on the bike.  But if you have short stubby arms like me, the sleeves may be long and you may want to consider going down a size.    Also, Mavic's jackets have 3 sizes listed on the tag, so make sure you know what size you're getting.  Mine is USA Small / International Medium / Japan Large.