FABRIC WATERPROOFING
A fabric's waterproofing is determined by measuring its resistance to the pressure exerted by a water column, measured in mm (test based on ISO 811 standard). The higher the pressure, the more waterproof the fabric. These are the waterproof characteristics of the RC500 jacket: 8,000 mm before washing, 5,000 mm after 5 washes.
JACKET WATERPROOFING
It's not just the fabric that's important for the product's waterproofing; the construction is just as big a deal. The seams on the RC500 are sealed and we have chosen to use the waterproof YKK AquaGuard® zip.
BREATHABILITY OF THE FABRIC (RET)
To see whether a fabric is breathable, we test its evaporative resistance or RET (based on the ISO 11092 standard). The lower its resistance, the more it lets water vapour produced by the body escape, therefore the more breathable it is.
• RET <6: extremely breathable, suitable for the most intense workouts
• RET 6 to 12: very breathable, designed for moderate exercise
• RET 12 to 20: moderately breathable, not enough for exercise
• RET >20: little breathability, unsuitable for exercise
MEMBRANE OR COATING?
The RC500 jacket's fabric has a membrane.
The membrane is a type of very thin micro-perforated plastic film (polyurethane) which makes the fabric both waterproof and breathable. It is also very supple, lighter, more durable and more breathable than a fabric with a coating.
Coating is a layer applied to the interior of the fabric which makes the fabric waterproof. It costs less than a membrane, and requires a lining to protect it.
FOLD-UP FLAP
As you know, if the road is wet, it can be very unpleasant getting your shorts covered in spray from the rear wheel. To solve this problem, we've equipped the RC500 jacket with a retractable flap at the base of the back. It can be discreetly folded into the back of the jacket, and is very practical when needed.
It goes without saying that adding a mudguard to the rear of your bike adds even more protection against splashes.
Cut
CLASSIC FIT: Fitted and comfortable. This timeless cut is perfect for your longer bike rides, whether in the saddle or having a break.
This fit is tighter than our "Relaxed Fit", but not as tight as our "Pro Fit".
