If you want to stand out in the crowd coming home from the pub, then the Proviz REFLECT360+ is the cycling jacket for you.
The key feature of the REFLECT360+ is the reflective outer material from which it is constructed. This is certainly a cycling jacket to make you visible on the road - well, at least if headlights or street lights are shining at you. Unlike bright day-glow orange or yellow jackets, in overcast conditions or indoors this somewhat unassuming grey jacket can easily be worn in a pub, café or casually about town; it is discreet and understated.
However, the first time friends see the jacket under lights they are amazed. It has a night-time wow factor, as it is transformed by headlights into a white, ghost-like, glowing jacket. It has exceptionally good reflective properties, ideal for cycling in the dark with good street lighting or car headlights.
Take care however in dull, grey drizzly autumnal weather, when many cars fail to light up and the jacket merges into the background. Then it is essential to have your own bike lights flashing, ideally with an additional light clipped to the reflective jacket.
The Proviz REFLECT360+ feels light-weight, is waterproof, comfortable and wind resistant. This comes as no surprise as it is a "seam sealed 100% polyester garment", with a warning on the label against sharp objects.
Originally I tried on the recommended medium sized jacket for a chest size 104cm. However, I am perhaps not as slim as many cyclists (although not overweight either!) and found I needed the large - the size I usually choose for other jackets and jumpers.
The jacket pockets at the front are well positioned for cycling. There is room inside for your keys or a small wallet, though they could be a little larger for multipurpose casual use of the jacket. There is one inside front pocket that was the ideal size for my smart phone.
In autumn cycling, I found the rear vent across the back to be effective, particularly in conjunction with the large adjustable zip vents under the arms. There are clear washing instructions on the label, in English not Chinese, cautioning against using biological agents or ironing!
I liked the high zipped collar with a softer lining that gave some extra warmth when starting out on cold days; it could easily be lowered when you build up a head of steam. It is a comfortable jacket and exactly what I wanted for cycling around town. A women's version of the jacket is also available.
The jacket is sensibly priced, representing good value for a multipurpose cycling jacket that will make heads turn at night.
Proviz REFLECT360+ Cycling Jacket, £109.99 from www.provizsports.com
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