Castelli Squadra jacket and alternatives

[PaulSB]

I'm looking for a very packable, lightweight jacket to carry on the sort of bright but chilly days we've been having recently. I already have a very old one from Go Outdoors, the fit is poor and it can be like a sail at times.

The main reason for the jacket is to wear as a windbreaker/windcheater on long descents or for the second half of rides when I often feel a late Spring chill.

I saw the Castelli in Merlin yesterday, it fits me well. Does anyone have experience of this jacket, especially with regard to how windproof it is?

Other suggestions would be welcome. Keep in mind wind chill is the main factor.

 

[vickster]

See if there are user reviews, eg Merlin website, Sigma Sports or similar retailers of Castelli

 

[Ming the Merciless]

For a wind breaker how about a gilet?

 

[N0bodyOfTheGoat]

I've used it more when not on the bike than riding, because I rarely go out in the rain these days, but I bought an XL of these Funkier Dry Pros in '23. Good for wind protection and a bit of rain.
https://www.merlincycles.com/funkier-dryride-pro-showerproof-cycling-jacket-193438.html

I needed the XL for my big belly these days, but it's a relaxed fit, compared to my stretchy/tight PlanetX Magma convertible.

 

[ColinJ]

For a wind breaker how about a gilet?

That is my choice. I have a very lightweight Sundried gilet which I wear on except on hot days. Even on those rides I often start off wearing it.

I also wear a lightweight long-sleeved base layer most days and roll the sleeves up or down as required. I also take arm-warmers if conditions are chilly.

 

[super_davo]

With respect to the Squadra... its a great windproof / light shower jacket. Quite race fit, not much excess material to flap. Packs tiny, fits into a pocket with a little bit of room to spare (e.g. a set of arm warmers and a buff as well).

Won't keep out much more than a light shower but that's not really what its designed for. It's a 'stick on at the start of the ride or on a descent' emergency jacket for when you want to be wearing a breathable jersey for the rest of the ride. If you want total windproof the whole ride, I'd be wearing something like a Perfetto light. Think it is great value for the £40 Merlin are selling it for but have seen it even cheaper in the past (as low as £25).

With respect to Gilets... yeah they do the wind proof bit but I'd much rather have the Squadra in a light shower. Plus many gilets have a tendency to flap around the shoulders if the sizing isn't spot on - someones recommedation here may work perfectly for them but not for you. And from experience - even trying on in a shop doesn't guarantee success - sometimes the only time you really know about the flapping is when you're hunched in the drops going down a descent at speed.

 

[PaulSB]

I've used it more when not on the bike than riding, because I rarely go out in the rain these days, but I bought an XL of these Funkier Dry Pros in '23. Good for wind protection and a bit of rain.
https://www.merlincycles.com/funkier-dryride-pro-showerproof-cycling-jacket-193438.html

I needed the XL for my big belly these days, but it's a relaxed fit, compared to my stretchy/tight PlanetX Magma convertible.

Thanks, I've had good kit from Funkier in years gone by. I'll take a look.

 

[PaulSB]

With respect to the Squadra... its a great windproof / light shower jacket. Quite race fit, not much excess material to flap. Packs tiny, fits into a pocket with a little bit of room to spare (e.g. a set of arm warmers and a buff as well).

Won't keep out much more than a light shower but that's not really what its designed for. It's a 'stick on at the start of the ride or on a descent' emergency jacket for when you want to be wearing a breathable jersey for the rest of the ride. If you want total windproof the whole ride, I'd be wearing something like a Perfetto light. Think it is great value for the £40 Merlin are selling it for but have seen it even cheaper in the past (as low as £25).

With respect to Gilets... yeah they do the wind proof bit but I'd much rather have the Squadra in a light shower. Plus many gilets have a tendency to flap around the shoulders if the sizing isn't spot on - someones recommedation here may work perfectly for them but not for you. And from experience - even trying on in a shop doesn't guarantee success - sometimes the only time you really know about the flapping is when you're hunched in the drops going down a descent at speed.

Yes, this is exactly what I want it for. Like today, I set off in a light winter jersey and quality gilet, I was comfortable for the first 35 miles or so. At the top of our final climb with a two mile 30mph descent to come, light rain set in and the temperature dropped quickly. Two of us pulled on our lightweight jackets and got to the cafe toasty........the other four shivered.

I have three very good gilets but carrying one to put on in those circumstances doesn't work for me.