When changing weather conditions, a key question for cyclists is whether to keep things light and aerodynamic or go for layers that offer more protection, even if that means more discomfort? Moreover, if it is a fast ride, when staying with the group is essential, the equipment you choose is fundamental. The Finisseur Pro Race Primaloft Jacket attempts to answer these questions by clearly focusing on performance and technical solutions, without trading off weight or comfort.

Lightness and protection

The first thing you notice when you get your hands on this Finisseur jacket from the Pro Race range is that it is extremely lightweight, only 240 grams in size M. The Primaloft inner lining does not cover the entire inside of the jacket, only shoulders and neck. Therefore, this is not a winter jacket per se, but a windproof and waterproof jacket that dries very quickly and can be combined in many different ways. It can be worn with a long-sleeved, short-sleeved, sleeveless or even a jersey, depending on the temperature range you are facing. 

The protection it offers against wind and water is exceptional, considering its light weight. The water-repellent fabric allows water to run off in droplets without getting soaked, while the Primaloft inner lining keeps the most exposed areas warm. It is worth highlighting that Primaloft technology offers the advantages of down filling, but requires less care and is more suitable for high-intensity aerobic activities such as cycling. Even if the outer fabric gets waterlogged, the Primaloft fibres lose very little insulating capacity, as they have a high water repellent capacity and dry incredibly fast. 

Slim fit and technical details for more performance

With the above described features and its performance-oriented nature, we would expect nothing but a fully “Pro Race” cut, tight fit and lots of technical details. Thus, the fabric used in the jacket is 85% polyamide and 15% elastane, which in addition to its characteristics of resistance and low moisture absorption, allows for great elasticity in all four directions. The back of the jacket is also oversized so that it partially covers the top of the bib shorts even in the most aerodynamic positions. 

Not only does the jacket have three traditional pockets, something not many windproof jackets don’t have, but the right pocket is a double pocket with a zipped compartment on the side, ideal for carrying small items such as documentation, patches, etc. The back of the waist also features a 3 cm high silicone elastic waistband, which will keep the jacket in place at all times. The front and rear Finisseur logos are reflective, and at the back the extra visibility is complemented by reflective strips, one in the middle of the back and one at the waist. 

The best choice for changing conditions.

We were able to test this jacket during “ideal” conditions: unstable weather, with low temperatures at the beginning of the ride and intermittent rain. For the occasion we combined the jacket with a short-sleeved Finisseur Pro vest, because as the morning progressed the sun began to shine and the temperatures started to rise. At the start of the route, with jacket zipped up all the way, we didn’t miss a neckwarmer. When the rain came, the water slid down the sleeves, but did not soak through. And as the weather got warmer, by unzipping the zip a bit, the temperature rise didn’t make us feel suffocated, in fact, while the sleeves can feel a bit ‘cool’ in the early hours, later in the day we were grateful not to be wearing a long-sleeved thermal.

All in all, we think this Finisseur Pro Race Primaloft jacket is an excellent choice for those fast rides where aerodynamics and protection from the elements take precedence over everything else. With its racing cut and technical materials, this ultra-lightweight jacket does the job and promises to be a classic in our cycling wardrobe. 

PROS

Ultra-light.

Excellent thermal protection where it is most needed.

Very versatile when combined with an underlayer.

CONS

Only in black colour.

Technical information:

Brand

Finisseur

Model

Finisseur Pro Race Primaloft black Jacket 

Description 

Ultra-lightweight waterproof windproof jacket with Primaloft lining in shoulders and neck, reflective details and slim fit.

Pockets

Three traditional open back pockets, one of which is a double zipped pocket. 

Colours available

Black

Sizes

From XS to 3XL.

Price

102,91€

More information here (https://www.deporvillage.net/finisseur-pro-race-race-jacket-dark-grey)