Hincapie Arenberg Zero Jacket

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As I packed up the car and filled my Camelback, my wife looks at me and says "You're wearing just THAT to go riding?!". The mercury read 37F as I loaded up, so I figured if this Hincapie gear could keep me somewhat warm on a cold day like this, it would perform amazing on a crisp fall day!

Hincapie has a strong reputation in the road cycling & triathlon industry for manufacturing high end bibs, tights, jerseys, etc. and their XC gear isn't any different. At first glance all the gear looked solid and well made, but we all know the real test happens on the trails. For me, the true sign of great cold weather gear is that you stay warm without effecting performance and mobility.

Arenberg Zero Jacket Features

• Textured, 4-way stretch MTX Wind Repel™ fabric provides a conforming fit and insulation from cold temperatures
• HyperOptic Roubaix™ reflective treatment for superior visibility
• Super Roubaix™ back panel for added warmth and breathability
• Weather protective center front 2-way zipper with internal storm placket
• Enhanced ergonomic design improves riding comfort and element protection
• Three generous back pockets
• Weather protective hem, cuffs & collar seal out the elements
• MRSP $200

Just like the baselayer, having gear with the body's riding position in mind helps with fit and comfort. I never felt like I was stretching out the arms to reach the bars and the material had some stretch to it...which helps when you're a husky Medium like me!! As far as warmth, with the combined baselayer I was surprisingly VERY toasty on our snow ride, even during short stops to take pictures. The zippered cuffs were also key for tucking the gloves into the sleeves for a nice tight seal on warmth.

For someone that always rides with a hydration pack, I typically have no use for rear pockets unless I wore it out on a road ride. I'm all about hitting up the pub after a ride, so I would have also liked to see small zipper pockets on the front to stash keys and a phone.

I was honestly VERY surprised how warm and comfortable I stayed throughout the ride. I would go as far as saying that on a reg fall day, if you layered the Merino baselayer with the Arenberg Jacket you'd probably be TOO warm. But with some proper gear like the Hincapie lineup, many of us in the Northeast could extend our riding season at least another month!