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The top 21 best men’s thermal cycling jackets

In this blog I’m going to give you my list of the best men’s thermal cycling jackets.

My guess is you already know the benefits of such a cycling garment, or else you wouldn’t be looking to get one for yourself.

So you know that a high-quality thermal cycling jacket adequately prevents the loss of body heat in cold weather riding conditions.

And it does so with multi-layered fabrics that combine windproof, and water-repellant characteristics, with high breathability, and moisture-wicking features.

The most well-known of those was created decades ago and goes by the name of Gore-Tex. But many other brands have created their own specific version that basically does the same.

There are many options to choose from. I could basically almost list the entire catalog from both Castelli and Gore Wear. I’ve tried to trim it down a bit, and have created a table at the end of the article. This way you can compare and see what’s best for you.

So let’s head over to my top picks for the best men’s thermal cycling jackets.

Troy Lee Designs Descent cycling jacket

Troy Lee Designs Descent cycling jacket
Troy Lee Designs Descent cycling jacket
Troy Lee Designs Descent cycling jacket
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The Troy Lee Designs Descent jacket is a great endurance jacket for both male and female cyclists who go out riding no matter what the weather looks like.

Like other premium waterproof cycling jackets, it features a 3-layer breathable 10K waterproof fabric. And the hood is compatible with most helmets out there.

A no-nonsense design offers a pretty tight fit. It ensures the jacket looks great, but if that’s not your thing make sure to size up.

Castelli Transition 2 cycling jacket

Castelli Transition 2 cycling jacket
Castelli Transition 2 cycling jacket
Castelli Transition 2 cycling jacket
Castelli Transition 2 cycling jacket
Castelli Transition 2 cycling jacket
Castelli Transition 2 cycling jacket

The Castelli Transition 2 cycling jacket is a lightweight cycling jacket meant to extend your riding season.

It has a breathable and water-repellant GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ WINDSTOPPER® front with a fleece insulated back. This provides extra protection from wind chill, short rain showers and low temperatures.

It has 3 stow pockets in the rear, alongside a large reflective banner on the back as well as the front for optimal visibility.

There are many colors to choose from, which is a nice touch in a sea of black.

Castelli Mortirolo VI cycling jacket

Castelli Mortirolo VI cycling jacket
Castelli Mortirolo VI cycling jacket
Castelli Mortirolo VI cycling jacket
Castelli Mortirolo VI cycling jacket
Castelli Mortirolo VI cycling jacket
Castelli Mortirolo VI cycling jacket

The Castelli Mortirolo VI cycling jacket is a road cycling oriented jacket for mild cold weather rides.

It offers GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ WINDSTOPPER® fabric, but only at the front, where you can make the most use of it. That means the rest of the cycling jacket offers above-average ventilation, hence its mild temperature usage.

Castelli is one of the brands that certainly scores points in the design department, and this jacket, available in a variety of colors, is just as nice as the rest of their lineup.

At over 400 grams it’s not a particular lightweight, and it’s a bit surprising that that’s not reflected in a lower price. E.g. there are much lighter jackets, with the same level of protection, that are cheaper.

Gore Wear Phantom cycling jacket

Gore Wear Phantom cycling jacket
Gore Wear Phantom cycling jacket
Gore Wear Phantom cycling jacket
Gore Wear Phantom cycling jacket
Gore Wear Phantom cycling jacket
Gore Wear Phantom cycling jacket

The Gore Wear Phantom jacket is one of the best cycling jackets with detachable sleeves, if not the best.

For decades Gore has dominated the tech-fabric industry, and this jacket also features their most recent innovation. The jacket is made from GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ WINDSTOPPER® fabric, which is extremely breathable, water-resistant, and windproof.

The cycling jacket has 3 rear stow pockets, and reflective strips on the arms, which can be quickly removed, effectively turning this jacket into a warm cycling jersey, not a sleeveless vest.

The design of this jacket hasn’t changed in over 2 decades, and I can clearly see why. It’s a clear case of not fixing that’s never been broken in the first place.

Gore Wear Lupra cycling jacket

Gore Wear Lupra cycling jacket
Gore Wear Lupra cycling jacket
Gore Wear Lupra cycling jacket
Gore Wear Lupra cycling jacket
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The Gore Wear Lupra jacket is a high-quality, relaxed-fit option for a winter cycling jacket.

Made from a combination of GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ WINDSTOPPER® in the front and GORE® selected fabrics in the back it’s a hooded option compatible with helmets.

The loose fit allows easy layering for increased insulation in an already durable and waterproof setup, with taped seams in the hood and shoulders.

Draw strings let you tighten the hood and hem to further protect you from the elements.

Long sleeves with pre-shaped elbows create the perfect fit when cycling and sit generously over your gloves. 2 zippered hand pockets finish this excellent design.

One of the best allround winter cycling jackets, flexible, versatile, and great-looking on and of the bike.

Gore Wear GORE-TEX Paclite cycling jacket

Gore Wear GORE-TEX Paclite cycling jacket
Gore Wear GORE-TEX Paclite cycling jacket
Gore Wear GORE-TEX Paclite cycling jacket
Gore Wear GORE-TEX Paclite cycling jacket
Gore Wear GORE-TEX Paclite cycling jacket
Gore Wear GORE-TEX Paclite cycling jacket

The Gore Wear GORE-TEX Paclite cycling jacket is a lightweight cycling jacket with a relaxed fit.

Made from GORE-TEX PACLITE® Plus it easily enables multi-layering for added insulation should the temperature drop significantly, turning this garment into a great winter cycling option.

Durable, water- and wind resistant with fully taped seams for the best protection against riding through heavy rain.

Large reflective elements on the back and arms, alongside brightly colored options ensure you’re clearly visible in low-light conditions.

Water resistant zippers and a single zippered back pocket underline its road riding pedigree.

But roadie or not, if you want a lightweight winter cycling jacket to get you through the worst of weather conditions, look no further.

Gore Wear C3 GORE-TEX Thermo cycling jacket

Gore Wear C3 GORE-TEX Thermo cycling jacket
Gore Wear C3 GORE-TEX Thermo cycling jacket
Gore Wear C3 GORE-TEX Thermo cycling jacket
Gore Wear C3 GORE-TEX Thermo cycling jacket
Gore Wear C3 GORE-TEX Thermo cycling jacket
Gore Wear C3 GORE-TEX Thermo cycling jacket

The Gore Wear C3 GORE-TEX Thermo cycling jacket is a versatile, quality offering from this behemoth in cycling apparel.

With a rather loose fit, there’s more than enough room for multi-layering underneath the already great GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ WINDSTOPPER®. If you’d do so you could very well ride down mount Everest in the depth of winter, because the cycling jacket itself is also already fleece lined.

It’s not the priciest and that’s a good thing. But be aware of the fact the jacket offers ample insulation and is truly meant for very cold temperatures. And it does so without being waterproof. Both features detract a bit from its flexibility.

Nonetheless, if you’re looking for one of the more affordable options when you don’t want to freeze on your bike, this one falls squarely in that category.

Gore Wear C5 GORE-TEX Active cycling jacket

Gore Wear C5 GORE-TEX Active cycling jacket
Gore Wear C5 GORE-TEX Active cycling jacket
Gore Wear C5 GORE-TEX Active cycling jacket
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The Gore Wear C5 GORE-TEX Active cycling jacket is a minimal, performance-oriented, and very lightweight waterproof option.

As the name implies, the jacket is made from GORE-TEX Active fabric, which is extremely breathable, yet still waterproof.

With a single zippered back pocket the jacket can be stowed away inside itself, and can be carried around inside another jersey.

For those who want premium quality garment that can be easily carried with you.

Endura Hummvee Waterproof cycling jacket

Endura Hummvee Waterproof cycling jacket
Endura Hummvee Waterproof cycling jacket
Endura Hummvee Waterproof cycling jacket
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The Endura Hummvee Waterproof cycling jacket is a versatile, minimalistically designed, waterproof cycling jacket.

The garment has a 2-layer polyester ripstop with sealed seams and mesh liner. This means, it’s a non-insulated waterproof jacket for riding in cold weather temperatures.

A number of reflective elements, both front and back, aid in increasing your visibility while on the road.

The single zippered back pocket and easy-access zippered breast pocket, makes for an allround, great addition to your off-season cycling wardrobe.

Endura Hummvee Lite II cycling jacket

Endura Hummvee Lite II cycling jacket
Endura Hummvee Lite II cycling jacket
Endura Hummvee Lite II cycling jacket
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The Endura Hummvee Lite II cycling jacket combines a loose-fit design with excellent weather protection.

A 2-layer polyester ripstop with sealed seams and mesh liner means you get a windproof and waterproof cycling jacket that allows for enough room to layer up.

This means it’s a flexible jacket for a variety of temperatures and weather conditions in an affordable package.

Showers Pass Syncline CC cycling jacket

Showers Pass Syncline CC cycling jacket
Showers Pass Syncline CC cycling jacket
Showers Pass Syncline CC cycling jacket
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The Showers Pass Syncline CC jacket is a high-quality yet very affordable option considering the amount of functionality this lightweight jacket provides.

2.4 layered waterproof fabric with taped seams, water-resistant zipper, 3M reflective tape, an adjustable hood compatible with a helmet, zippered ventilation vents on both sides, this jacket does it all and does it very well.

It’s probably the best all-round waterproof cycling jacket for the money.

Fox Racing Ranger Fire cycling jacket

Fox Racing Ranger Fire cycling jacket
Fox Racing Ranger Fire cycling jacket
Fox Racing Ranger Fire cycling jacket
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The Fox Racing Ranger Fire jacket is a premium soft shell jacket.

A brushed fleece interior lines a durable polyester shell providing protection from the elements in the form of being both windproof and water-repellant.

2 zippered hand pockets are located on the sides. Like many garments from MTB-oriented brands, reflective elements are lacking.

In combination with a minimal droptail, the jacket feels and looks more casual than your traditional cycling soft shell jacket.

Fox Racing Ranger 2.5 Water cycling jacket

Fox Racing Ranger 2.5 Water cycling jacket
Fox Racing Ranger 2.5 Water cycling jacket
Fox Racing Ranger 2.5 Water cycling jacket
Fox Racing Ranger 2.5 Water cycling jacket
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The Fox Racing Ranger 2.5 Water jacket is a lightweight option for cold weather and wet conditions.

A great allround cycling jacket with 10K waterproof fabric and a helmet compatible hood. A bit more lightweight than the more expensive options from Fox Racing, the jacket is perfect for all-round riding in less than ideal conditions.

Fox Racing clothing is well-designed and this form-fitting yet comfortable feeling jacket is no exception.

Fox Racing Barricade Softshell Fleece hoodie

Fox Racing Barricade Softshell Fleece hoodie
Fox Racing Barricade Softshell Fleece hoodie
Fox Racing Barricade Softshell Fleece hoodie
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The Fox Racing Barricade Softshell Fleece hoodie is a well-put-together cycling jacket.

As a break from tradition it actually partially uses cotton in combination with polyester, which is your go-to fabric to create cycling jackets. This feels more comfortable while still maintaining high levels of protection against wet conditions in the form of a DWR treatment.

It has hoodie in its name, so there’s one, which differs from the ones found on jackets that are compatible with helmets. Making this garment more casual than strictly meant for hitting trails during your next autumn ride.

2 zippered hand pockets with a single zippered breast pocket provide the necessary cargo space. And as a lot of MTB-oriented jackets show us, there isn’t any reflective element to speak of.

POC Mantle Thermal hoodie

POC Mantle Thermal hoodie
POC Mantle Thermal hoodie

The POC Mantle Thermal hoodie is a great in-between cycling garment as summer moves into autumn and the temperature plummets.

Made from a double-layered 15K polyamide with fleece lining the hoodie features above-average stretching abilities into an already loose-fit. That means this hoodie feels fantastic and will give you all the freedom of movement you’ll need for tricky and technical trails in cold weather conditions.

Nylon also is more durable than polyester, the fabric of choice for many competing products.

And with a DWR treatment on top of tightly woven 15K fabric you don’t have to fear getting soaked because the garment has fantastic water-repellant characteristics.

Yes, unfortunately it comes only in black, which is a missed opportunity on POC’s side if you ask me, because I would’ve loved to don one of these with a color matching one of my bikes (blue, red, and orange please).

POC isn’t known for making cheap cycling apparel and this hoodie is no exception. And while last-you-a-lifetime might be a bit too much, this hoodie will surely last you longer than most.

POC Signal All-weather cycling jacket

POC Signal All-weather cycling jacket
POC Signal All-weather cycling jacket
POC Signal All-weather cycling jacket
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The POC Signal All-Weather jacket has the honor of being the most expensive packable jacket on this list.

So what do you get for paying several hundred dollars for a minimal packable jacket? For one, the most waterproof jacket with protection against a 20K water column, which is double the protection when compared to the average other waterproof jacket. You can hang the packed jacket on your handlebars.

The jacket actually features a RECCO® Reflector and a twICEme® NFC Medical ID, something I normally see on jackets worn with skis or a snowboard. It’s an added protection for bikepackers.

The fact that such a jacket comes in a form, which can be easily stowed away indeed makes it the ultimate lightweight jackets for bikepackers.

POC Haven Rain cycling jacket

POC Haven Rain cycling jacket
POC Haven Rain cycling jacket
POC Haven Rain cycling jacket
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The POC Haven Rain cycling jacket is one of the best high quality, waterproof, lightweight cycling jackets worth your money.

With a minimal 20K durable ripstop polyamide fabric the material itself won’t let the worst rain storm get through. The fabric is treated with a DWR coating and all seams are fully taped.

There’s a rule that sometimes the less product you get, the more expensive it is. That certainly goes for this premium rain cycling jacket. So be prepared to dig deep into your wallet to obtain this bit of Swedish high-tech weather protection.

Pearl Izumi Quest AmFIB cycling jacket

Pearl Izumi Quest AmFIB cycling jacket
Pearl Izumi Quest AmFIB cycling jacket
Pearl Izumi Quest AmFIB cycling jacket
Pearl Izumi Quest AmFIB cycling jacket
Pearl Izumi Quest AmFIB cycling jacket
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The Pearl Izumi Quest AmFIB jacket is a premium soft shell cycling jacket with a loose fit.

Ample coverage in the rear drop tail and long sleeves make sure heat stays put, while the DWR treatment makes this jacket windproof and water-resistant.

You can close up the jacket even more with integrated waist adjusters, and a zippered pocket in the rear adds some storage capacity.

Small reflective logos add some degree of increased visibility.

I’m more a fan of hand pockets, but otherwise this 3-layer fleece brushed soft shell jacket in an assortment of colors is exceptionally well made.

Pearl Izumi Monsoon WxB cycling jacket

Pearl Izumi Monsoon WxB cycling jacket
Pearl Izumi Monsoon WxB cycling jacket
Pearl Izumi Monsoon WxB cycling jacket
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The Pearl Izumi Monsoon WxB Hooded jacket is a reasonably priced waterproof cycling jacket.

A double-layered 10K waterproof shell with taped seams and DWR treatment is all the protection you’ll need to stay dry in any kind of rain.

Reflective strips both front and back aid in being seen at night, and sleeve adjusters keep them in place when wearing gloves.

2 convenient hand pockets with waterproof zippers, make this an excellent addition to your cycling wardrobe.

Giro Stow H2O cycling jacket

Giro Stow H2O cycling jacket
Giro Stow H2O cycling jacket
Giro Stow H2O cycling jacket
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Should you want maximum protection in a lightweight package the Giro Stow H2O jacket is one of the best choices you can find.

With a 15K 2.5-layer polyester fabric with DWR treatment, this garment is waterproof, windproof and durable, and still somewhat affordable when compared to similar options.

It further adds to that flexibility in use, with 2 zippered hand pockets to stow away your stuff.

When not in use, pack it and stow it on your handlebars.

My personal pick for the best allround packable waterproof cycling jackets.

Leatt MTB AllMtn 5.0 V22 cycling jacket

Leatt MTB AllMtn 5.0 V22 cycling jacket
Leatt MTB AllMtn 5.0 V22 cycling jacket
Leatt MTB AllMtn 5.0 V22 cycling jacket
Leatt MTB AllMtn 5.0 V22 cycling jacket
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The Leatt MTB AllMtn 5.0 V22 cycling jacket is the most no-nonsense cycling jacket I’ve come across.

With a 30K 3-layer Hydradri fabric and taped seams it’s a jacket with a singular purpose of keeping you dry in the most extreme trail riding conditions you can think of. There is no other jacket with a more capable fabric to withstand the rigors of mountain biking.

All that protection does mean you run the risk of overheating, and to prevent such a thing from happening two huge zippers gain access to adjustable ventilation. That’s a good thing, but it comes at the cost of normal zippered pockets found in other jackets.

Their ride-adaptive hood system is helmet-compatible and offers multiple intuitive options to protect your face.

So as far as cycling jackets go, this one is the most hardcore, but a bit less flexible than other options.

Specifications men's thermal cycling jackets

Name
Price
Material
Weather protection
Pockets
Reflectiveness
Packable
Buy at Amazon
Troy Lee Designs Descent cycling jacket
189 USD
3-layer breathable 10K waterproof fabric
windproof, waterproof
2 zippered hand pockets
none
no
Castelli Transition 2 cycling jacket
210 USD
GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ WINDSTOPPER® front w. fleece back
windproof, water resistant
3 rear pockets
rear vertical reflective strip
no
Castelli Mortirolo VI cycling jacket
220 USD
GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ WINDSTOPPER® front
windproof, water resistant
3 rear pockets
reflective back panel
no
Gore Wear Phantom cycling jacket
200 USD
GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ WINDSTOPPER®
windproof, water resistant
3 rear pockets
reflective strips on arms
no
Gore Wear Lupra cycling jacket
180 USD
GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ WINDSTOPPER® front w. GORE® selected fabrics back
windproof, waterproof
2 zippered front pockets
reflective strips on arms
no
Gore Wear GORE-TEX Paclite cycling jacket
200 USD
GORE-TEX PACLITE®
windproof, waterproof
1 zippered back pocket w. 1 zippered breast pocket
reflective details
yes
Gore Wear C3 GORE-TEX Thermo cycling jacket
170 USD
GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ WINDSTOPPER® w. fleece lining
windproof, water resistant
3 rear pockets
reflective details
no
Gore Wear C5 GORE-TEX Active cycling jacket
220 USD
GORE-TEX Active
windproof, waterproof
1 back stow pocket
reflective logos on both arms, chest and back
yes
Endura Hummvee Waterproof cycling jacket
125 USD
2-layer polyester ripstop w. sealed seams and mesh liner
windproof, waterproof
1 zippered back pocket w. 1 zippered breast pocket
reflective stripes and logos on back, shoulders and front
no
Endura Hummvee Lite II cycling jacket
140 USD
2-layer polyester ripstop w. sealed seams and mesh liner
windproof, waterproof
1 zippered breast pocket
reflective logos front and back
yes
Showers Pass Syncline CC cycling jacket
146 euros
Artex™ 2.5-layer fabric w. DWR-free PFC
windproof, waterproof
2 zippered hand pockets
3M reflective strips on front and back
no
Fox Racing Ranger Fire cycling jacket
170 USD
3-layer polyester softshell w. brushed fleece lining
windproof, water resistant
2 zippered hand pockets
none
no
Fox Racing Ranger 2.5 Water cycling jacket
120 USD
10K 2.5-layer ripstop fabric
windproof, waterproof
2 zippered hand pockets
none
no
Fox Racing Barricade Softshell Fleece hoodie
120 USD
3-layer polyester and cotton fabric w. DWR treatment
windproof, water resistant
2 zippered hand pockets w. 1 zippered breast pocket
none
no
POC Mantle Thermal hoodie
150 euros
15K 2-layer polyamide w. fleece lining w. fluorocarbon-free DWR treatment
windproof, water resistant
eyewear holder w. zippered lower back pocket
reflective elements
yes
POC Signal All-weather cycling jacket
350 euros
20K ripstop fabric w. jersey liner
windproof, waterproof
2 stow hand pockets and 1 zippered back pocket
reflective front and back logos
yes
POC Haven Rain cycling jacket
290 euros
20K ripstop polyamide fabric w. DWR treatment and taped seams
windproof, waterproof
1 zippered back pocket
reflective front and back logos
yes
Pearl Izumi Quest AmFIB cycling jacket
130 USD
3-layer AmFIB softshell w. DWR treatment
windproof, water resistant
1 zippered back pocket
BioViz® striping
no
Pearl Izumi Monsoon WxB cycling jacket
125 USD
Performance 2-layer 10K fabric w. DWR treatment
windproof, waterproof
2 zippered hand pockets
BioViz® striping
no
Giro Stow H2O cycling jacket
90 USD
15K 2.5-layer polyester w. DWR treatment
windproof, waterproof
2 zippered hand pockets
3M® reflective logos
yes
Leatt MTB AllMtn 5.0 V22 cycling jacket
250 USD
30K 3-layer Hydradri fabric w. taped seams
windproof, waterproof
none
reflective elements
no
bio vanseijen

Johan van Seijen

FoundeR Restoration.bike

Johan van Seijen is the founder of restoration.bike. His passion for cycling in general, and restoring older bikes turned into a website to share his knowledge with a broader audience. Starting out on his father’s road bike and riding classics as the Amstel Gold Race and Liege Bastogne Liege he has shifted his attention to trail, XC, and gravel riding since. No matter how much he loves writing about everything related to cycling, nothing beats actually using his ever-expanding bicycle collection.

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