Galibier Colombière Jacket

Tell us what the jacket is for and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

Galibier says: "High protection insulated jacket, delivers exceptional performance on and off the bike"

And continues with this extra info:

The Colombière jacket was engineered for extreme cold weather riding but we have produced a garment that blurs the lines between on-bike performance and functional leisure wear. Bikepacking may be the origin of this jacket: A dream of keeping you warm off the bike when cooking dinner in the wild, but the reality is we have worn the samples as much biking with the kids and walking for coffee in the rain.

The performance is drawn from Synthetic insulation (made from 50% recycled bottles) producing a breathable, odour defying, windproof layer that will retain structure after washing. The main fabric has had a water-repellent (DWR) treatment to fend off a shower and the hood is removable with a hidden zip. The Front hand pockets are 'inseam' and zipped to protect valuables. Elasticated cuffs, waist and high neck keep out draughts. It can be worn with a single base layer in exercise conditions at temperatures of 10°C and down below freezing. Or add a mid layer for slumber or outside living in the coolest of conditions.

The fit is contoured without being overly snug, giving room for a layer underneath. The Roubaix fabric panels keep it close to the body to enhance both the fit and thermo regulation properties, on the bike and off. We have designed it to be sufficiently long in the body and sleeves to work perfectly well when riding but at home. Roubaix panels are again utilised on the inside of the arms to enhance the fit and movement range of the jacket allowing you to put a bike on your shoulder with ease or reach for a beer right at the back of the fridge.

We have designed the insulation at 80gm, sandwiched between two lightweight woven nylon outer fabrics, to make it dry fast and leave the warmth to weight ratio just right. Reflective features on the chest zip and rear panel joins, add visibility without compromise on weight or packability. The hood is zip removable with a middle closure system so can be taken off completely for those packing lighter still. Embroidered logo on the chest in contrasting colours for each option.

Col de la Colombière is a mountain pass in the Alps in the department of Haute-Savoie in France. It connects Cluses in the Arve valley with Le Grand-Bornand in the Bourne valley. Both on and off road ascents to 1600 meters are only possible in summer time; for the rest of the year you need to be wearing this jacket for protection. (Other garments can be worn, it is not French law, but this is best).

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the jacket?

Galibier states:

Elasticated waist and cuff openings

100% fluorocarbon-free Synthetic insulation (50% recycled mix)

TMC Japan glide zipper with reflective trim and toggle

Two front pockets, inseam, to keep your hands warm or stow essentials

Reflective details on the chest and back

Chest Phone pocket

Distinctive contrast stitching on the chest

Durable water-repellent finish (DWR)

As usual, Galibier delivers a high-performance product at a price to make you sit up and take notice.

How easy is the jacket to care for? How did it respond to being washed?

I wore this in muddy conditions and everything washed out at 30 degrees, with the DWR coating continuing to function. This would obviously deteriorate over a longer period, but the options for refreshing it are plentiful these days.

Tell us how the jacket performed overall when used for its designed purpose

The jacket was perfect for staying warm on and off the bike on casual winter rides, and the use of Roubaix fabric for the side panels and armpits is a huge help in preventing overheating.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the jacket

A stylish, well-fitted jacket that works on and off the bike... and those Roubaix side panels elevate its on-bike performance enormously.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the jacket

I'm struggling here...

How does the price compare to that of similar products in the market including ones recently tested on road.cc?

For such a high-performance casual jacket the price is excellent. Endura's FlipJak is a staple in this genre, and the latest model has an RRP of £129.99, while Rapha's Explore Down Jacket will cost you around three times as much as the Galibier.

Use this box to explain your overall score

An excellent and well-made casual jacket for commuting, bikepacking and everyday wear, and at a price that compares well with similar products. It's exceptional!