
When I lived in the city and rode to work, a practical, large pull-over-everything commuter fluorescent jacket was perfect.
But riding for fun is different. I want a waterproof jacket which breaths, keeps out water, fits snugly, packs small and looks good.
In this Pearl Izumi I think I've found it. It's the Peal Izumi Elite WxB Waterproof Jacket in Screaming green which cost me £135.
The two-colour fluorescent panels of yellow and green looks good. (Well, I think so).
It is cut to fit when on the bike, which also works for running. That means it'll be a bit tight across the shoulders for everyday wear, but perfect when running and riding.
There are some reflective panels and pretty much nothing else. (cont)
That's a good thing. There's no attempt to add needless bells and whistles to hit a price point. I'm all for lightweight.
At this stage I've only used it in cold, dry weather. Yeah, I know, not the best conditions in which to test a breathable waterproof. It has been so cold I've barely worked up a sweat. So let me tell you what I've found so far.

It doesn't have the thick Goretex feeling of being 'bombproof' and that's a pleasant change. It feels light and it rolls up small - to about the size of an orange, or given the colours, large lemon.
Note to Pearl Izumi - a mesh stuff sack would be nice.
I've considered some of the newer, ultra-light GoreTex jackets that pack exceptionally small. I rejected them because, like the first Model-T Fords, they only seem to come in black.
I understand why some cyclists feel they shouldn't have to wear fluorescent kit. However, I don't share their view. I like wearing these bright colours, particularly on the roads around our highland home.
In low winter sun, drivers coming from a brightly lit section of road to an area of sudden deep shadow can find their vision compromised and that's dangerous on our narrow single-track roads. With a whacking big slab of screaming green I leap out of the shadow. Plus, as I say, I like the colours.