Showers Pass Transit Jacket CC Review (men’s and women’s)

By Sheri Rosenbaum

Hot

• Waterproof and windproof membrane
• Two core zipper vents and large rear vent prevents overheating
• Magnetic drop tail for added coverage from tire spray
• 360 visibility with reflective elements throughout
• Multi-use versatility for on or off the bike
• Plenty of waterproof pockets for storage
• Media port in interior chest pocket for headset cord
• Cut roomy enough to layer on cold days
• Clean Color dyed fabric keeps harmful chemicals out of manufacturing process
• Drop tail compatible with Shower Pass beacon lights (sold separately)

Not

• Packs down but doesn’t fit in a jersey pocket
• No mesh fabric to keep core vents from gaping open when unzipped
• Hood is an optional purchase
• Beacon lights optional purchase

https://www.showerspass.com/

Price: $199 MSRP

Sizes: S – 2L (women’s); S-3XL (men’s)

Colors: Black, Blue, Yellow

Weight: 18.5ox (size medium)

Fit Style: Full

Availability: Online, retail

How Obtained: Company Sample

RBR Sponsor: No

Rainy Days Just Got Brighter

Over the years I’ve reviewed a lot of gear from Showers Pass and I’m rarely disappoint. It’s the attention to detail and their dedication to producing high quality clothing that keeps you dry no matter where the adventure takes you. Available in both men’s and women’s sizing, the new Transit Jacket CC is ideally suited for a variety of cyclists from commuter to road. Add the optional hood and it’s great for a rainy hike or sporting event.

It’s the Details that Count

Showers Pass incorporates key details into the Transit jacket letting you just focus on your adventure.

• The Transit is made from Artex™ 3-layer fabric to provide a waterproof, windproof and fairly breathable fabric that isn’t overly bulky. I wouldn’t call it a packable jacket, but it can roll up to a little bigger than a water bottle. If you had paniers, a backpack or large rear storage bag, you could roll it up and stow it away.

• To help regulate your temperature and avoid overheating, there are built in vents. Two core vents with waterproof zippers located just in front of the arm pits and a large vent across the upper back. Some of the other Showers Pass jackets I’ve tested had core vents, that when opened, used a mesh liner to keep them from gaping open. The Transit does not have this feature.

• To protect your bottom from road spray, there’s a built-in magnetic drop tail. With just a tug, the reflective tail drops into place. It’s easy enough to do while riding so no need to stop. If you use the Transit jacket for hiking or other outdoor activity, the drop tail protects your bottom from cold/wet when sitting on the ground or a stadium seat.

• It’s imperative to be visible when riding in the rain. The Transit jacket provides you with 360 visibility. First there are reflective elements on the wrists, shoulders, elbows, back and chest pocket. The yellow version of this jacket, which I tested, adds to the visibility. Optional beacon lights can be purchased that fit into the drop tail, a 4-pack costs $25.

• Plenty of waterproof storage with a chest pocket that fits a smartphone and two side pockets.
• The jacket’s full cut style provides room for layering on a cold ride but is close enough to the body that excess material isn’t flapping in the wind.
• Velcro closures at the cuff and an adjustable hem cinch let you customize the fit to keep you dry.
• For added comfort, the fleece collar provides soft to the skin feel.
• If you ride or hike with ear buds, the chest pocket has a convenient media port on the inside. Your phone stays dry and the wire is fished through the inside of the jacket.
• An optional waterproof rain hood is available for $29.00 and attaches at the back of the collar with a Velcro loop.

Reducing Harmful Chemicals

The “CC” in the Transit jacket’s model name stands for Clean Color Technology. As part of Showers Pass’ sustainable goals, they use Bluesign System approved dyes that keep harmful chemicals out of the manufacturing process. This in turn protects people and the environment. It’s great to see more and more cycling companies move to environmentally friendly fabrics and manufacturing techniques.

Bottom Line

The new Showers Pass Transit Jacket CC doesn’t disappoint. It offers the high-performance waterproof and windproof construction the company is known for, as well as thoughtful details for a comfortable ride. The jacket is available in men’s or women’s sizes and is perfect for layering on those colder days. This is one of those pieces of cycling gear you’ll have for years and definitely worth the investment.