Is Endura's Pro SL Waterproof Softshell a bike jacket you should add to your gear collection? Find out in our review...

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It’s strange to see both the words ‘waterproof’ and ‘softshell’ in a product name. The latter usually suggests a layer that is less about water resistance but more about wind resistance, plus they’re normally more breathable than full waterproof jackets.

In this instance, we’d suggest forgetting the word softshell and thinking of Endura’s Pro SL Waterproof Softshell as a waterproof bike jacket, as that’s how it performs. Rain is shed with aplomb, with the eco-friendly, PCF-free waterproof coating, waterproof fabric and internal storm flap under the zip all doing their job.

Due to the use of waterproof fabrics and taped seams, the jacket isn’t the most breathable layer you’ll find, but two large pit zips offer fantastic ventilation and temperature regulation. A size medium fit this 1.85m, 80kg tester well, delivering a racy fit with minimal flapping.

Thanks to the slight stretch in the fabric, range of movement was left unhindered and we could fit a base layer and jersey underneath when temperatures demanded it. There’s no adjustment at the waist, but the hem here and the wrists are elasticated, resulting in a good seal that keeps the elements out.

The Pro SL also comes with a really strong set of features. There’s a soft internal collar, a chest zip pocket, a zip pocket on the rear and the three standard jersey pockets (complete with drainage holes). Meanwhile, reflective details help enhance visibility and a drop tail tackles road spray.

We love the ‘pumpkin’ colourway, too, which stands out on the road.

Verdict: Fantastic weather protection and features for the money.

The Phantom is Gore’s best-selling jacket, ever. Designed with cyclists in mind, it’s built for cool weather, using a combination of Gore-Tex Infinium and Gore Windstopper fabrics to provide wind and water resistance.

It comes with an aero fit, has lengthened sleeves and a dropped tail, while a stretch back panel helps achieve a good fit. There’s three back pockets, as you’d expect, plus a zip pocket for valuables.

You’ll also find plenty of reflective detailing to help you stand out on a road, while zips around the shoulders let you remove the sleeves if you start to find yourself getting too hot.

Rob Slade joined 220 Triathlon as features editor in April 2021 and has a background in adventure sports, which he developed during his time as editor of Adventure Travel magazine.

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