Madison Roam Windproof Jacket Review:

Lightweight, Packable, and Perfect for Cycling
If you're on the hunt for a lightweight, wind-resistant jacket that won't break the bank, the Madison Roam Men’s Lightweight Windproof Jacket might just be your next essential piece of gear. Tested rigorously for 8 months by our Tech Editor, Benji, this jacket proves itself as a versatile, durable, and highly practical layer for cyclists.

Key Details:
Brand: Madison
Product: Roam Men’s Lightweight Windproof Jacket
Available at: Freewheel
Price: £69.99
Tested by: Benji (8 months)


First Impressions
This jacket comes in an eye-catching Lake Blue shade and boasts an impressive set of features. It’s stretchy, wind-resistant, and easily compressible—a combination that makes it perfect for cyclists needing to pack light. The best part? It can be stuffed into its own pocket when not in use. Whether you use it as a Hacky Sack or not (your call), this nifty design makes it an incredibly packable companion for unpredictable weather.

Noteworthy Features:

Wind Resistance: Keeps the chills at bay, especially during those brisk rides.
DWR Coating: Offers decent water resistance for light drizzles and damp conditions.
Roll-Down Hood: The hood can be rolled down and secured—handy when the wind picks up.
Two-Way Front Zip: A chunky, easy-to-use zip for ventilation and convenience.
Elasticated Cuffs and Hood: Prevents drafts from sneaking in and helps the jacket stay snug during your rides.


Benji’s Take: 8 Months On the Trails

As someone who rarely buys cycling-specific apparel these days, Benji admits he’s skeptical of high-price jackets. He explains:

“I am reluctant to recommend jackets that cost £100+ anymore. They just don’t really work. Or rather, they don’t really work once you’ve had them for a year or so—not in the UK’s mild ‘n’ moist climate at any rate.”
Instead of shelling out for expensive waterproofs, Benji has found himself reaching for the Madison Roam Windproof more than any other jacket this year. Why? For something so lightweight, it’s remarkably durable and holds up against the typical wear-and-tear of cycling. No snagging, no ripping, just a solid jacket that does its job.

“I find myself either wearing a cheap chainstore waterproof (if I’m going to be out for a long time in persistent rain) or this windproof jacket from Madison.”
His advice? Skip the pricey mountain biking waterproofs and pair this jacket with a softshell jersey for optimal comfort and performance. It’s light, breathable, and perfect for the mild and unpredictable conditions of UK cycling.

Why It Stands Out

The Madison Roam Windproof strikes the perfect balance between performance and affordability. At £69.99, it’s a steal compared to jackets two or three times the price. And while it may not offer the full protection of a heavy-duty waterproof, its combination of wind resistance, packability, and durability makes it a versatile addition to any cyclist's wardrobe.

Final Verdict

For cyclists looking for a dependable, lightweight layer to keep the wind at bay, the Madison Roam Windproof Jacket is hard to beat. Benji’s 8 months of testing prove it’s durable, practical, and far more useful than overpriced waterproofs for everyday rides.

Stop buying £200 waterproof jackets for mountain biking. Buy this jacket instead.

At just £69.99, it’s a no-brainer.

 

Want to read the full review? Check it out here!

Dec 17 2024
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