dhb Cosmo waterproof jacket

Available in gender specific cuts and neutral colours, the DHB Cosmo waterproof jacket is a nifty little shell, compact enough to fit in a jersey pocket. In many respects it's a better option than traditional technical training tops for those riders, including yours truly, who layer sensibly but run a little hot during early season training runs.

Boasting waterproof and breathability ratings of 20,000mm and 30,000 m2/24, it's a specially crafted polyamide (nylon) fabric with taped seams conceived to resist moderate to heavy downpours. Refinements are limited to a chill cheating micro-fleece collar, elasticated cuffs, rear stash pocket (which it can fold into when not required) and silicone tail grippers to prevent gathering.

The cut is extremely snug for a really seamless, wind cheating effect, so the DHB Cosmo looks and works better with tights than baggier messenger or mountain bike longs. Distinctive Scotchlite patterns emblazoned across shoulders and tail strike a very good balance between subtle and eye-catching, although weren't everyone's cup of tea.

In my experience Wiggle's sizing has always been slightly idiosyncratic, usually erring on the generous. However, the Cosmo's tail struck me as very short, so I was surprised to discover our fetching blue medium sample was quoted as optimal for my dimensions.

Texture is similarly unique, much nicer than micro or old school 'condom' jackets yet lacking the charm of more expensive soft shells. That said, I quickly acclimatised and whipping on/off as conditions dictate is an absolute cinch.

Successive, wet, blustery rides confirmed it was predominantly waterproof, doing a very good job of repelling wind too, without me feeling like I was being boiled in the bag, though it did get a little clammy before it and I warmed up enough for the fabric to start transmitting moisture.

The gated main zipper is user friendly when conditions dictate greater airflow; even in full finger gloves, ditto its rear pocket. Kamikaze descending in torrential rain confirmed there's no danger of it fluttering like a builder's tarpaulin or cold wind whistling inside. However, ten miles in a torrential storm saw the fibres surrender, leaving me distinctly wet. Drying times wavered between 20 and 90 minutes depending on persistency.

Forest frolics suggest abrasion damage shouldn't be a problem and gloopy spatter doesn't stick that readily. That said, remember to wash periodically on a low temperature with some specialist, waterproofing agent to maintain its properties.

Verdict

Very versatile, lightweight shell with tremendous charm but not truly waterproof and would benefit from a longer tail