Cycling rain jackets put to the test: The three best rain jackets for road cycling

The right rain jacket is essential for cyclists to be optimally protected even in adverse weather conditions. We have tested 23 models and present you with the top 3. Admittedly, getting on your bike in the rain takes some effort. But it can also be really nice. Even if you are surprised by a shower in the middle of a tour, a small rain jacket will save the day.

Special tip for bike packing from TOUR editor Sandra Schuberth: "I pack minimally for bikepacking tours. This means that my rain jacket has several functions. It's a rain jacket, windbreaker and protective layer when it's too cold without it."

>> What you need to know about rain jackets

>> The complete rain jacket test with 23 models

>> Washing and waterproofing cycling clothing correctly

>> 5 short rain trousers in the test

3rd place: Castelli Emergency 2 Rain Jacket

In third place, the Castelli Emergency 2 Rain Jacket impresses with its quiet comfort and good weather protection.

• Price: 170 Euro >> available here
• Grade male model / grade female model: 1,6 / 1,6
• Conclusion: The jackets are comfortable against the skin and only rustle softly. The cut is well adapted to the bent posture, but a relatively large amount of fabric billows out at the front on the chest and stomach. The collar and sleeves are the right length. Even after washing, the models offer the best weather protection: they are waterproof and rain runs off reliably. The collar and sleeves are long, but not quite as snug as the Alé. The sealed zip is relatively difficult to operate with one hand, but the jackets also fit athletic figures. Plus points for the shoulder chimney for ventilation and the abundant use of reflective material.
• Test report: Castelli Emergency 2 Rain Jacket

2nd place: Le Col Pro Lightweight Rain Jacket

The Le Col Pro Lightweight Rain Jacket scores with its high-quality workmanship and perfect fit, which puts it in second place.

• Price: 215 Euro >> available here
• Grade male model / grade female model: 1,6 / 1,5
• Conclusion: The jacket has a high-quality feel, is very comfortable to wear and is pleasantly dry against the skin thanks to its fine waffle structure. The cut is almost perfect in every position, offers plenty of freedom of movement and also remains stable at the back - nothing slips. Together with Gore Wear, the slightly cheaper British brand Le Col shares first place on the podium. The jacket is excellently made and ideally tailored to the racing bike position. The back section extends over the buttocks, the sleeves cover the wrists even when the rider is stretched out, and the collar provides reliable protection from the wind. The zip is easy to operate with one hand thanks to the perfect fit. The jacket also scores top marks for weather protection and features.
• Test report: Le Col Pro Lightweight Rain Jacket

1st place: Gorewear Spinshift GTX Jacket

The test winner, the Gorewear Spinshift GTX Jacket, impresses with its robust construction and unrivalled weather protection, even after washing. Thanks to its suitability for use and sophisticated details, it comes out on top.

• Price: 250 Euro >> available here
• Grade male model / grade female model: 1,5 / 1,4
• Conclusion: The jacket feels like robust rain protection, rustles slightly, but is comfortable and dry against the skin. The cut is perfectly adapted to the racing bike position - the length and shape are ideal for the bent position. Despite the sporty fit, there is still plenty of freedom of movement. With an overall score of 1.5 (men) and 1.4 (women), the Spinshift is the deserved test winner. The women's model comes out on top with its lower weight and smaller pack size. The jacket impresses all round: reliable weather protection even after washing, a zip that can be operated with one hand, well thought-out details. If you have a long neck and upper body, you might wish the collar and back were a little longer - but that's criticism on a high level.
• Test report: Gore Wear Spinshift GTX Jacket

Tip: be quick, because the Gorewear brand is discontinued. This applies to both cycling clothing and the running range.