Wind and rain is a cyclists worst nightmare. There is nothing worse than being soaked through and having to cycle in cold, missable weather. So it’s always nice when you have something like the Endura Pakajak in your arsenal to fight back at Mother Nature.
The brand itself comes in as a cheaper brand, but this doesn’t mean it’s poorly made and nasty! This jacket costs around £37-£40 depending on the retailer, which is cheap in comparison to others but still a fair amount of money for what is essentially a thin waterproof.
When I realised I needed a waterproof, I ordered two with the intention to return one. I went for the Endura Pakajak as mentioned and the Castelli Sottile Due Rain Jacket. The Castelli was a little more expensive (£60) and didn’t come in a neat little case like the Endura. Also the material used was thicker, more plastic-y compared to the thin, light Endura. So I kept the Endura and returned the Castelli.
Typically, after I got this jacket it didn’t rain for weeks! But I was itching to try it out so one cold morning (7-8c) instead of a base layer and long sleeve jersey, I braved just a short sleeve and this jacket. A risk I know, but boy did it pay off.
As well as being rain proof this jacket is almost completely wind proof. Even on cold rides when you can feel it on your face and legs, but the torso is not cold at all. This makes it an all round, awesome jacket. And it’s small enough to screw up and stuff in your back pockets when you warm up. As its so lightweight you can barely notice it in your back pocket.
In terms of style and fit, this jacket is spot on. I’m 5″10/147lbs and I went for the medium. It fits well, not too loose that I become a parachute when cycling along but not too tight it restricts movement. And (as with most cycling jacket) the coat has an elongated back to protect your back when bent over. It also comes with a little carry pouch which is nice to keep it neat and tidy. It’s available in lots of different colours to suit your taste, and they also do male and female versions. I went for the white one, and my girlfriend has got the pink one if any ladies are interested.
My one small criticism is that I would of liked a pocket on the back. Although I understand they would want everything to be waterproof, but somethings can afford to get a little wet so would of been nice to have an easily accessible pocket. As I say, this is only a tiny annoyance.
So this lightweight, stylish, functional jacket ticks all the boxes if you’re looking for a value for money jacket. It keeps you warm and dry. And is so lightweight it can be tucked away when not using. Excellent product.
