dhb Minima S Waterproof Jacket

The dhb Minima S Jacket is, as its name suggests, a minimalist waterproof jacket designed to survive the nastiest downpours whilst still being packable enough to fit into a jersey pocket.

The DHB Minima S is constructed from a 2.5 layer, Teflon coated material (non-branded) which they claim is waterproof to 8000mm. Due to Teflon's hydrophobic properties, water tends to bead up on the surface, where wind and gravity can remove it. A jacket is only as waterproof as its weakest point though, and to this end, all the seams are taped and the full front zip is of the waterproof variety, as well as being backed by more material. The neck is cut high and lined with fleece for comfort, and features a 'zip garage' to prevent any unwanted irritation when the zip is all the way up.

In a concession to packability, the cuffs and lower hem use simple elastic closures rather than straps or draw cords, and the Minima doesn't feature any pockets either.

Reflective detailing is minimal, with only two thin strips of piping on the upper back and some flashes on the lower back. If being seen is a priority, then DHB offer the Minima in full neon yellow which is burn-yer-eyes-out bright.

The fit is appropriately bike specific with long arms specifically shaped to provide full coverage when leaning towards the bars. The rear hem is slightly dropped though riders with more aggressive positions will still find their backside's exposed. The flip side is that the Minima doesn't look ridiculous when standing up, making it more suited to commuting type journeys.

Inside, the fit is designed so that you can get it over a mid-weight jacket without any flapping fabric. The neck fits quite snugly to keep out the water, but it doesn't feel uncomfortable thanks to the fleece lining. The aforementioned elasticated cuffs and hem also do a good job of keeping out the moisture without causing any discomfort by being too tight. Overall, the fit doesn't hold any surprises and should suit to the majority of riders.

The combination of good fit, taped seams and waterproof material make the Minima ideal for heavy rain when maximum protection is needed. Riders using a rucksack will be pleased to hear that water doesn't seep in through the back either.

The downside to all this protection is that the Minima really isn't all that breathable as its water vapour transport capabilities can easily be overwhelmed.

It's better than a simple plastic jacket, but still lags behind some of the more expensive and technical hard shells out there.

In changeable weather conditions, I found I was less inclined to leave the jacket on the whole time as I would do with a more breathable option; removing the jacket and putting it back on as weather dictated.

Luckily then, the zip is large enough to be easily handled with gloves on and the whole jacket packs down small enough for a rear jersey pocket. The Minima also includes a stuff sack which is useful for stowing the jacket away at work for example, and adds to the value of the whole package.

Verdict

Ideally suited to prolonged rides in heavy rain, though relative lack of breathability limits use.