iJ.haBu5. It’s hardly the catchiest name in the world of cycling, but that’s the name of the brand new jacket from Assos designed for autumn and early winter conditions.
Intended to be worn over a baselayer (short or long sleeve depending on temperature) as a mid layer, the iJ.haBu5 is a slim fitting and lightweight insulating garment designed to the Swiss company’s usual high standard.
A new Roubaix Q (RXQ) fabric features on the sides and lower arms, and is essentially a Roubaix material that has gone on a diet. An interesting waffle pattern on the insides goes some way to reducing the weight of the fabric while still maintaining good insulation properties.
For those areas that will be exposed to the wind, so the front chest panel, upper arms and collar, a four-way stretch Stratagon Light windproof material is employed. Details are meticulous; three rear pockets with the outer two zipped to prevent items escaping – if you’ve ever had your phone bounce out of your pocket on a fast descent you’ll appreciate this, reflective details including the front and a high collar to keep drafts out.
On first impressions the jacket offers a light racy fit that we’d expect from a regular long sleeve jersey but with the far greater ability to cope with colder conditions we would expect from a bulkier jacket. And as such, the range of temperature it is able to cope with is about that which we’re experiencing during the current autumn season. There’s little overheating on warmer days and yet, when the temperature plunges, it copes with impressive ability.
Not cheap at £248.99 but impressive nonetheless. Full review soon
