NOTE! This site uses cookies and similar technologies. If you continue without changing your settings, we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies from this website.
I understand
More Info
Braving cafe culture, we took the Shimano Transit Softshell jacket out in all weathers for a full review...and cappuccino...and maybe a small croissant.
shimano cw jacw qs12mq
Best for...
Casual cafe cycling and low-profile touring
Price
£109
Value
8
Quality
10
Performance
7
Looks
10
Comfort
10
Overall Score
9
+
Understated and classy looks, backed up by solid performance fabrics
Lacking some technical features
bike.shimano.com

The Transit jacket is an intriguing blend of classic, understated design - casual almost - with stretchy softshell fabrics. The result is a cracking, comfortable jacket that shrugs off rain showers and keeps chill winds at bay, yet really wouldn't look out of place in a hipster cafe or airport lounge. For that reason, it lends itself well to cool weather touring where you could happily leave the bike behind yet not look like you'd lost the peloton on the way.

Earthy colours and discreetly dark reflectives that only show their true nature when called upon at night add to the subtle looks. Even the casually loose cuffs are supplemented on the inside by hidden lycra sleeves to keep draughts out - it's all about low key functionality here. The only other features in this otherwise sleek and understated jacket are the luxuriously microfleece lined hand warmer pockets, adjustable elastic hem and small hidden chest and back pockets. The collar is snug, and microfleece lined for a cosy feel too. Short on technical features it may be, but we loved it all the same.

We used the Transit Softshell mountain biking, gravel riding and on the road and while it copes surprisingly well with all of them it is best suited to more social riding or touring where the looks and cut are very welcome, and the lack of all-out technical features aren't so much of an issue.

Share on

All our reviews are independent and unbiased. We may earn a commission when you buy from links to Amazon and other affiliates on this page.