dhb Aeron Lab Ultralight Waterproof Jacket

Tell us what the jacket is for and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

dhb says, "Lightweight, packable and fully protective. With the Aeron LAB Ultralight Waterproof, you can have all three. Fully waterproof yet small enough that you won't notice it in your back pocket: why leave home without it?

The lightest 3 layer waterproof in cycling?

Weighing in at 110g (Men's size medium) this just might be be the most featherweight yet protective jacket on the road. By using a 3 layer fabric, dhb have made no compromise on protection from the elements, whilst also maintaining a weight and packability that you won't notice in your pocket all day. Until you need it of course!

Aeron LAB. Engineered in the best laboratory we know: out on the road.

Over two years in the making, the all new Aeron LAB collection combines rigorous real-world testing with the best components available, resulting in a collection tuned to the needs of demanding riders reaching for new levels of performance. Because when you're pushing yourself, you need kit that exceeds your expectations.

Aeron LAB Ultralight: Higher, Faster, Further

Ultralight is for those moments when you don't want to carry more kit uphill than absolutely necessary. By combining lightweight fabrics with minimalist yet robust construction methods, Aeron LAB Ultralight still has all the features you need for a big day out in the mountains, keeping you comfortable on punishing gradients and in testing temperatures.

Fully waterproof

Combining an ultralight, 3 layer waterproof fabric with taped seams means dhb have built a fully waterproof jacket – something rarely seen at this weight for a such a durable piece of kit. With exceptional breathability (30,000 g/m2-24hr) and waterproof (30,000 mmH2O) ratings, this is a special fabric which works hard to keep you comfortable in foul weather.

3 layer performance

When making lightweight waterproofs, brands tend to strip out layers to shed weight. This leaves the waterproof membrane exposed, limiting durability and longevity. This is not the case with the Aeron LAB Ultralight waterproof. By seeking out a lightweight 3 layer fabric, dhb have made sure the membrane is fully protected, meaning this jacket will stay waterproof for longer. A DWR treatment also adds an extra layer of protection from rain.

Race ready, second skin fit

Waterproof Jackets don't have to flap in the wind. Made for top level road cyclists with a cyclist's physique, Aeron LAB has a close, uncompromising second-skin fit. It's built for riding fast.

Designed to sit close to the body with no excess fabric to slow you down, Aeron LAB has a closer fit than the dhb Aeron collection. It will feel different: close and uncompromising. Once on the bike, Aeron LAB comes into its own.

With a shortened front zip length designed for an aggressive riding position, the LAB Ultralight Waterproof Jacket is perfect for riders who spend most of their ride pushing the pace. Longer at the back to keep the worst of the weather off,

Finishing touches

Making a lightweight jacket doesn't have to mean sacrificing features that improve your ride. dhb have managed to maintain a comprehensive list of features to keep you comfortable, whatever the weather.

A lightweight zip doesn't compromise on packability. Underarm vents add further ventilation, while elasticated waist and cuff keep the jacket in place. A fleece collar adds a touch of comfort."

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the jacket?

3 Layer waterproof fabric

Taped Seams

DWR treatment

Breathability 30,000 g/m2-24hr

Waterproof 30,000 mm H2O

Slim aero fit

Underarm vents

Shaped drop tail rear

Weight 110g

100% Nylon

Product Data

Fit: Performance

The fabric feels tough considering its thinness.

I was generally impressed.

If you stick with dhb's size chart you will be fine.

How easy is the jacket to care for? How did it respond to being washed?

There aren't any special washing requirements so it's just a matter of bunging it in the machine. The DWR coating will eventually wear off but you can reproof it easily enough.

Tell us how the jacket performed overall when used for its designed purpose

I was impressed by its waterproofing for such a lightweight jacket.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the jacket

Good all-rounder against the elements.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the jacket

Some people may like a brighter colour option.

How does the price compare to that of similar products in the market including ones recently tested on road.cc?

It's not cheap at £150, but many jackets we see that offer the same level of waterproofing aren't lightweight packables. Similar products from Assos and Gore may perform better but they are almost double the price.

Use this box to explain your overall score

If you ride in foul weather, this jacket performs really well, has a great cut and is very good quality. It's not quite up with the Gore Shakedry on waterproofing and breathability, but you pay another £100 (or more) for that. Overall, I think the dhb is a really good jacket, with a great blend of performance and (more) affordable price.