Also comes in version for men: https://www.pearlizumi.com/US/en/Shop/Ride/Mountain/Men’s/
Hot
- Plenty of pockets for storage
- Women’s cut and stretch fabric provides a great fit
- Relaxed fit allows for layering
- Drop tail hem keeps you covered and warm
- Casual design great for on or off the bike wear
- Reflective elements keeps you seen
Not
- Only 2 color choices
- A little pricey
Cost: $175 MSRP
How obtained: Review sample from company
Available: Online, retail, Pearl Izumi’s website
Colors: Artic/Midnight Navy or Black
Sizes: XS-XL
Fit: Relaxed fit
Temperature Rating: 45-54 degrees F
Tested: On and off the bike 30+ hours
Transition to Cooler Temps
Earlier in the Spring Pearl Izumi launched their new Dirt collection which I reviewed. The Versa casual gear was designed to be as trendy on a MTB trail as it is on a bike path or on your commuter bike running errands. For the Fall, Pearl Izumi introduced the Softshell Hoodie. The thoughtful design, earth tones, and functionality are in line with the rest of the collection.
Keep Warm and Cozy
The relaxed fit of the Softshell Hoodie leaves room for layering underneath. With a full-length zipper, it was easy to ventilate if I got too cold or too warm. The draw string hood also helped to regulate my temperature.
Other nice features include cuffs hidden under the sleeve (wrist gaskets) with thumb holes. The cold air stays out and your hands get added protection. A drop tail provides additional coverage when riding, but also keeps your back side warmer when walking or hiking.
Both the outer and inner fabric layers of this hoodie are very soft to the touch. It also has stretch to it, allowing the material to move with you. There’s plenty of give across the shoulders as you reach for the handlebars or grab groceries out of the car. The hoodie fabric isn’t bulky, so it packs down nicely when traveling.
If you are outside when there’s little or no sunlight, the hoodie has subtle reflective elements to keep you safe. They are located along the back hem and sleeves.
Pearl Izumi rates this Softshell hoodie for 45-55 degrees F, but I’d put it at a wider range of 40-60 degrees F. It really depends on how you layer underneath.
Plenty of Storage
This hoodie has more than enough storage for on or off the bike. In the front there are two hand pockets and a zippered security pocket for keys. The back boasts a very large zippered pocket for storing your wallet, gloves, nutrition or all the above.
Bottom Line
Pearl Izumi added the Softshell Hoodie to their Fall Versa collection. This versatile piece comes in a relaxed fit, which allows room for layering underneath. With a casual look it gives you the option to wear it on or off the bike. I used it in temperatures between 40-60 degrees F even though PI rates it 45-55 degrees. Depending on where you live, this hoodie can take you from fall to early winter and even through spring in style and comfort.
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Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women's cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri's full bio.
Thanks you for such an excellent review. This will certainly help in my decision making. I like it when a cyclist actually wears the clothing a few times before giving an informed review. Good job Sheri!!