Sportful Fiandre Shift Jacket in the TOUR test: A lightweight weather jacket for the transitional season

Sportful uses a Polartec AirCore membrane, which is designed to block the wind whilst wicking moisture away. The jacket is water-repellent, but is not a rain jacket suitable for prolonged or heavy rainfall. Sportful specifies a temperature range of 5 to 15 degrees Celsius.

Excellent weather protection in the TOUR test

In the ‘Weather Protection’ category, the Fiandre Shift Jacket a score of 1.0. This puts it on a par with the best models in the comparison. The fabric reliably blocks the wind and is suitable for cool training rides where the temperature or weather fluctuates throughout the day.

The water-repellent finish offers protection during brief showers. However, anyone who cycles regularly in persistent rain will still need a fully waterproof hardshell. The strength of the Sportful lies not in uncompromising rain protection, but in the combination of wind protection and high breathability.

Lightweight and comfortable fit

Weighing in at 225 grams, the Sportful is one of the lightest jackets in the test. Only the Pas Normal Studios Rain Shell Aero Jersey, at 205 grams, is even lighter. The score of 1.5 for weight and pack size confirms the successful balance between material choice and protective performance.

The fit is standard, with sizes ranging from S to 3XL. In the TOUR test, the Fiandre Shift scored 1.3 for fit and comfort. This makes it suitable for sporty cyclists looking for a close-fitting, but not extremely tight, weather jacket. The cut allows plenty of room for technical base layers or a thin long-sleeved jersey.

Two-way zip improves temperature regulation

Features include a stretch waistband, a covered front zip and a two-way zip. The zip allows you to open the jacket from the bottom without having to unzip it completely. This makes it easier to ventilate during longer climbs or when the intensity of the ride increases.

The back pockets are also practical, featuring a design to prevent items from slipping out – a feature Sportful specifically highlights for rougher rides. TOUR awards a mark of 2.0 for the ‘Features and Functionality’ category. The reason: whilst the jacket offers the most important features, it makes only a modest use of reflective material.

Lots of colours, but poor visibility due to reflective details

One advantage of the Fiandre Shift Jacket is the range of colours available. As well as black, the jacket is available in more eye-catching colours, amongst others, which can improve visibility in diffuse daylight. However, a light colour is no substitute for reflective elements in the dark.

The lack of reflective details is the main drawback of this product in the test. Anyone who frequently cycles at dusk, on their commute or in autumn traffic should take extra steps to improve their visibility, such as using lights, reflective overshoes or a high-visibility vest.

Review of the Sportful Fiandre Shift Jacket

The Sportful Fiandre Shift Jacket combines excellent protection against wind and rain with a lightweight design and a comfortable fit. This makes it an attractive choice of weather jacket for intensive training rides in spring, autumn and on mild winter days. Its suitability ends when brief showers turn into persistent rain.

Editor’s conclusion

The Sportful Fiandre Shift Jacket Impresses in the TOUR test with excellent weather protection, low weight and a comfortable, regular fit. Weighing in at 225 grams, it remains light enough for sporty training rides and, thanks to its two-way zip, offers good temperature regulation. The wide range of colour options provides plenty of choice, though reflective material is used sparingly. It is not the right choice for long rides in the rain. It is recommended for performance-oriented cyclists who want flexibility when riding in windy conditions, cool temperatures and short showers.