I tested this jacket on a number of rides in some very wet conditions indeed and the Explore Lightweight Jacket kept me dry throughout. Additionally the Gore-Tex Paclite material provided decent breathability during prolonged periods of wear.
This jacket has a lot of great features including a two-way zip which allows you to unzip the jacket from the bottom allowing airflow and a highly adjustable hood that fits under your helmet.
Described by Rapha as a ‘waterproof jacket for off-road adventures’ it’s not designed to be a snug traditional cycling fit, rather a relaxed fit giving you room to move and wear more relaxed clothing underneath. Personally I much prefer this It’s relaxed without being baggy yet still feels fitted enough so that it isn’t flapping all over the place when riding.
The jacket is also very lightweight and packs down pretty small making it ideal for cramming into a bike bag when not in use. Just what I needed.
Due to its design, the jacket also lends itself really well to off-the-bike wear and I’ve ended up taking it on a number of walks when I just want a lightweight waterproof jacket I can keep in my bag in case the weather turns.