Cheap cycling jackets: The best warm and waterproof options

By Alice Tuffery

Published: Thursday, 22 September 2022 at 12:00 am

During the winter months, a good cycling jacket can be a godsend, whether it’s helping keep the wet weather away or adding some warmth on a particularly chilly day.

It needs to be flexible enough to allow for good movement in the arms and ideally be designed with a dropped hem at the back to keep you covered from spray, particularly if you’re not using mud guards.

If you’re looking for a jacket that provides warmth, a softshell fabric that insulates well, but is breathable and helps regulate your temperature is ideal.

Also look out for comfortable high collars, reflective detailing and zipped pockets for your valuables.

We’ve scoured the market for the best cheap cycling jackets we can find online. Below, you’ll see what we found, with lots of well-known brands. Picks are based on in-depth research and analysis of user reviews, and have been split into two categories: waterproof and warm.

If you’re prepared to pay a little extra for your kit, check out our reviews of the best cycling jackets for men and women.

The best cheap cycling jacket deals

Sundried Thermal Cycling Jacket

We’ve included this cheap cycling jacket in our waterproof category, but Sundried says it’s also a warm option that’s able to keep you toasty in temperatures as low as -5°C.

The multilayered thermal fleece is said to help regulate your body temperature in freezing conditions, so there should be no need to cancel your training when the mercury drops. A high collar and elastic wrists are also included here in an effort to keep warm air inside and cold air out.

You’ll get three large pockets at the back, as well as a zipped compartment for valuables.

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Dhb Aeron Equinox Softshell

Dhb is a go-to brand for many cyclists thanks to its versatile designs in smart block colours at reasonable prices. The Aeron Equinox is a hybrid solution that’s said to offer the warmth and weather-resistance you’d expect from a jacket, while keeping the stretch you’d get with a jersey.

The brand recommends turning to this cheap cycling softshell when the temperature is between 6°C and 16°C, or when you want to push yourself on cold days.

Other benefits are said to include the breathable back panel, reflective detailing and four pockets. The internal waist grip also looks to be a handy addition, as it’s designed to stop the jacket riding up while you’re cycling.

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Endura Hummvee Waterproof Jacket

Endura’s Hummvee jacket is designed to be a heavy-duty option that’ll keep you dry in a downpour.

It’s made with tear-resistant ripstop fabric and has a full-length storm flap along the front zip for extra protection against the elements. Plus, all the seams are sealed and you can adjust the Velcro cuffs to help keep out the cold.

The fit is said to be fairly roomy, so you may want to size down or save this cheap cycling jacket is for days when you want to layer up underneath.

Endura says the jacket also offers a good level of breathability thanks to the inclusion of a sweat-wicking mesh liner and underarm vents.

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Triban Showerproof Road Cycling Jacket

Offering 360° visibility with neon-yellow colouring and multiple reflective strips, this cycling jacket will help you stay safe when riding in low light and looks to be a good option for commuting.

The design includes a thin layer of recycled polyester, which Decathlon say is showerproof, while a perforated front panel is included in an attempt to stop condensation.

This jacket is said to have a relaxed cut, meaning it should suit most body types. At the back you’ll find a single large pocket with a flap to store belongings.

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Pinnacle Competition Cycling Jacket

This cheap cycling jacket from Pinnacle is designed to be waterproof and windproof in order to keep you comfortable in poor weather.

It’s said to come in a classic cut, so is perhaps better suited to commuting than it is to out-and-out training rides. However, it does come with an adjustable hem and cuffs to help it fit to your body.

The three pockets on the front panel have waterproof zips, while the high-vis design means you should stand out well in poor lighting.

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Dhb Classic Thermal Softshell Jacket

For its Classic Thermal Softshell jacket, dhb uses a fleecy fabric it says is soft and high-wicking, which sits close to the skin to keep you warm.

It’s designed to be used when the temperature is between 5°C and 12°C, or use it as a mid-layer underneath a warmer jacket during winter.

With its slightly dropped rear hem and windproof construction, dhb says it’ll offer good protection against the elements, while the reflective inserts on the pockets and sleeves add flashes of visibility.

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Endura Xtract Jacket II

With a hydrostatic head rating of 5,000mm, Endura’s Xtract II is said to be useful for heavy downpours. Fully-sealed seams, a zip storm flap and elasticated cuffs and hem are included to help protect you from the wind and rain.

The standout feature, though, is the stuff sack, which you can use to store the jacket while it’s not in use.

Mesh back vents, reflective trims and a concealed rear zip pocket complete the package.

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Castelli Squadra Stretch Jacket

Designed to provide warmth in temperatures between 10°C and 18°C, Castelli’s Squadra Stretch appears to be ideal for spring and autumn rides.

The brand says it’s made with durable ripstop nylon across the torso and front of the arms, with knitted panels on the back of the sleeves for improved breathability and range of movement.

As well as a high collar to stop draughts, there are also reflective panels on both the front and back of the jacket.