Castelli Velocissimo Jacket Men's

When we're heading out for a cold weather ride, overheating is almost worse than not wearing enough layers. Being chilly can usually be fixed with a few hard efforts, but once you're sweating in your jacket, you're only going to get clammy. We're happy to report that Castelli understands the way we mortals need to layer in the winter. The Italian firm took one of its pro jackets and modified it to better adapt it to a recreational cyclist's body, giving us the Men's Velocissimo Jacket. Unlike the pros, most of us have enough body fat that we don't need to be bundled up in full Windstopper through fall and spring rides, so the Velocissimo balances insulation and protection from the elements with breathability for when we warm up. Castelli recommends the Velocissimo for temperatures ranging from 45 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. In our experience, 60 is pushing it for the jacket, but the addition of clouds and wind do take their toll even in the high 50s. The front and sleeve panels feature Gore Windstopper X Fast fabric, designed to repel water and wind as you ride without trapping heat. Unlike the pro version, Castelli's soft Warmer fabric constitutes the back of the jacket, adding more breathable warmth to prevent overheating. The Velocissimo's form fitting silhouette does accommodate a baselayer, but not much else, and as with the rest of Castelli kit, it was developed specifically to be used in a riding position, so it won't achieve its ideal fit until you're in the saddle. In case the wind kicks up while you're riding, Castelli includes a flip up collar that will stay out of the way when not needed. It also adds thoughtful touches like a silicone gripper at the waist and stretchy Thermoflex side panels for added freedom of movement. Reflective accents help you stay visible during the limited daylight hours at the beginning and end of the year, and three rear pockets provide ample space for you to store your favorite winter ride fuel and a few dollars for a warm,...