Coats and Jackets
Used MTB coats and jackets range from featherweight packable shells to fully waterproof winter riding jackets. For UK riding a proper waterproof is essential — not a splash-proof softshell, but a seam-sealed, membrane-backed jacket that handles sustained rain, and the Endura MT500 is the benchmark. Fox Ranger and Defend jackets cover lighter duties.
What makes a proper waterproof riding jacket?
A proper MTB waterproof uses a breathable membrane — Gore-Tex, eVent, or a proprietary one like Endura's ExoShell — with fully taped seams. The Endura MT500 Waterproof is the default recommendation for UK riders and has been the benchmark for years. 7mesh makes premium lightweight waterproofs at a higher price point, while Fox Defend and Ranger Water jackets are more affordable but use lighter membranes. Waterproof ratings of 10,000mm+ are the minimum for sustained UK rain; 20,000mm+ is ideal.
How important is breathability?
Breathability matters as much as waterproofing, because a jacket that keeps rain out but traps sweat inside is useless on climbs. Look for breathability ratings of 10,000g/m²/24hr minimum. Pit zips help dump heat and nearly all MTB waterproofs have them, while back vents are common on trail jackets. The most breathable waterproof jackets, such as Gore-Tex Active and the 7mesh Guardian, use three-layer construction that moves moisture faster than two-layer alternatives, but they cost significantly more.
Do I need a windbreaker or softshell as well?
For dry but cold or windy days, windbreakers and softshells are more comfortable than waterproofs — more breathable, more stretchy and less noisy. Fox, Endura and POC make cycling-specific windbreakers that pack into a jersey pocket. Softshell jackets from Endura MT500 and Fox Ranger bridge the gap, being wind-resistant with light water resistance and stretch fabric, and they're the jackets you'll reach for most often outside the wettest months, usually over a t-shirt or thin base layer.
Are casual MTB jackets worth buying?
Fox Racing, Troy Lee Designs and Fasthouse produce casual jackets — coaches jackets, windbreakers and lightweight bombers — with MTB branding. These aren't designed for riding in rain but work for driving to the trails, standing around at race events and everyday wear. They tend to be more affordable than technical riding jackets and make good layering pieces for autumn and spring, alongside sweatshirts and hoodies.
What should I check buying a used jacket?
Waterproof jackets degrade over time: the DWR coating wears off and membranes can delaminate. Test by sprinkling water on the outer fabric — if it beads and rolls off, the DWR is still working; if it soaks in, you can re-proof with Nikwax TX.Direct wash-in treatment. Check the seam tape by holding the jacket up to the light, as peeling tape means it will leak at the seams, and inspect pit zips, cuffs and the main zip for smooth operation. Casual jackets are easier to buy used, with no waterproofing to worry about.