Team Saxo Bank-SunGard just approved a wind shell from Sportful that many cyclists can appreciate. The jacket is lightweight and compresses into a pack that fits in the palm of your hand so you can easily tote it along on your ride in case of rain, wind, or chill. The jacket is designed to provide front wind protection, breathability, and a moderate degree of water protection, but in the absolute minimal package.The jacket has a close-to-body fit that lets you keep your attention on riding rather than the wind flapping the loose fabric of your jacket. The Hot Pack weighs in at 81 grams (for a large). The cycling-specific cut is slim, there’s little flapping, but enough length to keep your lower back covered. The sleeves are long enough to cover your wrists and have elasticized cuffs to keep the wind from traveling up your sleeve. Back vents and small perforations on the sides increase breathability.
The Hot Pack comes in a jacket, vest, and women’s jacket. It’s essential to have a wind shell for riding in this early spring weather with wind and possibility of light rain. The temperatures are rising, increasing the temptation to get out for a quick ride, or start putting in miles. But once you’re out there, you need more than a simple jersey to keep the chill off.