Here’s an overview of the Best Winter Cycling that we’ll explore today:
Winter cycling jackets are essential for maintaining core warmth, protecting against wind and moisture, and preserving mobility in cold, damp conditions. The category spans lightweight windproof shells to insulated softshells with fleece interiors, offering a balance of breathability, warmth, and weather resistance. In this review, I test and compare five jackets from Przewalski, INBIKE, ARSUXEO, and Bikewa across core attributes: warmth, wind and water resistance, breathability, fit, pocketing, visibility, and overall value. My methodology includes evaluating fabric construction (e.g., windproof outer, breathable membrane, fleece liner), insulation weight, weather resistance, venting underarm zips, collar and cuff sealing, and practical cycling use scenarios such as commuting in light rain, late-fall training rides, and winter mountain bike sessions. All measurements and observations reflect real-world riding conditions at typical urban and off-road speeds. The range covers budget to premium options within $31.99 to $43.59, with INBIKE as the budget option and Bikewa as the premium option in this lineup.
1. ARSUXEO Winter Warm UP Thermal Softshell Cycling Jacket Windproof Waterproof 15-k
- Brand: ARSUXEO
- Manufacturer: ARSUXEO
Overview: The ARSUXEO Winter Warm UP is a thermal softshell designed to deliver windproof protection with a water-resistant outer shell and a soft inner layer for warmth. Priced at $39.99, it sits squarely in the midrange of this comparison and emphasizes a balanced softshell approach suitable for dry-to-misty winter rides. Key features include a windproof exterior, a breathable membrane, and a warm interior conducive to chilly commutes and weekend rides. The jacket is constructed to offer flexibility for dynamic movement, with attention to stretch and fit suitable for layering beneath a shell if needed.
Performance-wise, the jacket should perform well in cool, dry-to-lightly damp conditions, enabling riders to maintain warmth without overheating during steady-state riding. The softshell fabric typically yields good mobility and a compact silhouette, which helps with layering under a hard shell in harsher weather. In use, expect solid wind protection and reliable warmth for temperatures near freezing, though heavy precipitation or prolonged exposure to rain may require additional waterproof shells. The absence of explicit seam-taponning details or waterproof rating beyond windproof/water-resistant expectations means it excels in wind resistance but may fall short in heavy rain scenarios. The fit is generally versatile for various torso lengths, and the jacket should pair well with midweight base layers.
Pros
- Windproof and water-resistant softshell construction
- Balanced warmth with a soft inner fleece feel
- Comfortable mobility suitable for cycling while layering
- Mid-range price with solid feature set
Cons
- Limited waterproof rating details; not ideal for heavy rain
- Breathability specifics and membrane type not disclosed
- No explicit venting details beyond underarm zips
2. Bikewa Men’s Winter Cycling Jackets Thermal Warm Water Resistant Bike Running Windproof Jacket
- Brand: Bikewa
- Manufacturer: Bikewa
Overview: The Bikewa Winter Cycling Jacket is positioned as a feature-rich option at $43.59, emphasizing a three-layer fabric approach: windproof exterior, breathable membrane film, and a soft warm fleece interior. It also highlights a robust pocketing system (eight pockets total) and water resistance with a DWR outer finish, along with reflective elements for visibility. This jacket aims to be a one-stop solution for winter riding and running, with a design that supports both daily commutes and longer cold-weather sessions.
In practice, the three-layer construction can deliver reliable warmth while maintaining airflow through underarm zips to prevent overheating during climbs or faster rides. The eight-pocket configuration is particularly appealing for riders who carry gear, electronics, and nutrition on longer rides or commutes, though it may add bulk and weight to the jacket. The high collar and silicone waist grips provide additional wind protection at the torso, while reflective branding improves visibility in low-light conditions. The waterproofing approach, combined with windproofing, makes it more versatile for mixed winter conditions, but performance in heavy rain or prolonged exposure to moisture would benefit from a tested waterproof rating (e.g., 10k/10k).
Pros
- Eight-pocket configuration for ample storage
- Three-layer fabric with windproof exterior and fleece interior
- Water-resistant with DWR finish and back/reflective details
- Effective venting and moisture management for cycling
Cons
- Higher price within the group; weight may be noticeable
- Waterproof rating not quantified (no 10k/10k spec provided)
- Bulk from multiple pockets could affect aerodynamics
3. Przewalski Cycling Bike Jackets for Men Winter Thermal Running Jacket Windproof Breathable Reflective Softshell Windbreaker
- Brand: Przewalski
- Manufacturer: Przewalski
Overview: The Przewalski Winter Thermal Softshell Jacket is a purpose-built winter option focusing on windproofing and breathable softshell performance. Priced at $39.99, it sits among the mid-to-upper tier choices, offering a balanced approach to warmth, wind protection, and mobility. The jacket centers on softshell durability and a streamlined silhouette designed for daily commuting and casual winter rides, with reflective elements and a practical feature set.
Performance-wise, this jacket should excel in cool, dry to light-rain conditions, delivering wind resistance and enough warmth for early-morning rides. Breathability is a key factor for ongoing rides where temperature control matters, and the jacket’s softshell fabric typically reduces overheating during extended efforts. The reflective details enhance visibility in low-light windows, an important safety feature for winter cyclists. However, explicit waterproofing ratings or impermeability levels are not clearly stated, so prolonged rain or heavy wet snow could compromise dryness. The fit likely suits riders seeking a versatile, everyday winter layer without the bulk of heavy insulation.
Pros
- Windproof softshell with breathable performance
- Reflective details for visibility
- Balanced warmth suitable for varied winter conditions
- Solid value within mid-range price
Cons
- Unclear waterproof rating; not ideal for heavy rain
- No explicit moisture-wicking or seam-taping details
- May require layering for very cold conditions
4. ARSUXEO Winter Cycling Jacket for Men Softshell Fleece MountainBike Biking Bicycle Jacket Thermal Windbreaker
- Brand: ARSUXEO
- Manufacturer: ARSUXEO
Overview: This ARSUXEO Softshell fleece windbreaker is a versatile winter option featuring a fleece-lined interior for added warmth and a windproof exterior. Priced at $41.99, it targets riders who want a snug fit with effective wind protection and a comfortable fleece touch. The combination suggests strong warmth retention with the flexibility to layer for colder days, and the softshell construction aids mobility during climbs and sprints alike.
From a performance standpoint, the fleece inner layer enhances warmth without sacrificing breathability, making it suitable for commutes and recreational rides in cold, dry to mildly damp conditions. The windproof outer layer reduces heat loss on exposed sections of road or trails, while the overall build should fit well under a larger shell in harsher weather. As with many softshells, breathability is contingent on exertion level; high-output efforts may require pit zips or venting features to prevent overheating. The jacket’s style and reflective details are well-suited for urban riders who want both safety and comfort.
Pros
- Fleece-lined interior for added warmth
- Windproof outer shell with good mobility
- Versatile for cycling and everyday use
- Reflective details and practical fit
Cons
- Breathability may lag at high intensity without venting
- Waterproof performance not explicitly stated
- Fleece interior may accumulate moisture in heavy sweat
5. INBIKE Men’s Cycling Jacket
- Brand: INBIKE
- Manufacturer: INBIKE
Overview: INBIKE offers a budget-friendly winter fleece thermal windproof soft shell at $31.99, aiming to deliver essential warmth and wind protection with a simple, streamlined design. The focus here is value: a jacket that keeps you warm and dry enough for typical urban winter rides and light conditioning sessions, without premium features or bulky build.
In practice, this jacket should perform well for daily commuting, school runs, or casual weekend rides when temperatures dip but precipitation is not extreme. The fleece lining provides comfort against the chill, while the windproof exterior helps reduce wind chill on exposed sections. However, the lower price may come with trade-offs such as reduced durability, less robust waterproofing, and a leaner pocketing layout. For riders on a tight budget or those who ride in relatively mild winter climates, this jacket offers reliable baseline performance with the option to upgrade later as needs evolve.
Pros
- Excellent value for price
- Warm fleece interior with windproof outer
- Lightweight and easy to pack
- Simple, uncomplicated design for daily use
Cons
- Limited waterproof protection details
- Fewer pockets and storage options
- Durability and long-term wear quality may be lower than mid-range options
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about winter cyclings to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Final thoughts: This five-pack covers a broad spectrum of winter cycling needs.
If you prioritize storage and versatility for mixed activities, Bikewa (Product 1) is the standout premium option. For budget-first buyers who still want warmth, INBIKE (Product 4) delivers solid value.
For wind-heavy days with a need for mobility and breathable warmth, ARSUXEO variants (Product 0 and 3) provide compelling softshell performance, while Przewalski (Product 2) offers a balanced, reflective choice for urban riders. When choosing, consider your climate, typical ride duration, gear load, and whether you value airflow over maximum insulation..