The Endura Windchill Jacket II is a cold-weather softshell cycling jacket designed to be windproof. (hence the name) While Endura states its “ideal for any type of riding”, it lies in their road collection and features a slim-fitting cycling cut, with rear jersey-style pockets. Road and gravel are the target audience based on the rear pockets, but after wearing it, I’ve found it useful for any cold weather activities where wind resistance and DWR coating are needed.
Features
- Stretch, thermal, windproof fabric
- PFC-Free, non-toxic durable water repellent finish
- Road, gravel, or trail-friendly fit (per Endura)
- Silicone grip hem
- 3 open rear pockets plus a zipped security pocket
- Reflective trim
- Size tested: large
- Color: Ink blue
- MSRP: $169
Fit and Sizing
According to the size chart, the recommended size for my fit is medium, so that’s the size I ordered. (on Amazon.com) However, I found it to be too restrictive for my preferences. In addition, the seams in the soft shell material can be irritating – especially in the sleeves.
Road-specific items are generally form-fitting, but for cold-weather clothing, I prefer a bit of space for warmth- sizing up allows me to comfortably run a base layer and a jersey, as well as a nylon vest if I need an extra layer of warmth. Not loving the fit of the medium in the arms, I returned it and purchased the size large.
Being a cycling-specific fit, it’s longer in the back and shorter in the front to avoid bunching in a forward riding position. Sizing up a size added a small bit of length in the torso that improved it for my multi-sport aspirations.
On the bike
I have been looking for a softshell jacket in sky blue and the color of the Windchill jacket sucked me in. Fleece-lined softshells are warm and usually have a durable water-repellant coating, making them a good option for many adverse conditions. Being a softshell, they can get overly warm once you get moving, but opening up the pit zips under the arm as well the main zipper provides adequate ventilation.
While the Windchill Jacket is intended for cycling, in use, I’ve found it works well for a cross-country ski jacket. Performance XC ski apparel is similar to endurance cycling apparel aside from the rear pockets and rear drop tail many cycling jackets have, and now that I’ve added cross-country skiing to my list of favorite winter activities I have found I prefer garments that can serve double duty.
The Endura Windchill Jackets lists for $169. Learn more at US.Endurasport.com or support the site by shopping for Endura gear at Amazon.com or CompetitiveCyclist.com.