SemperFi
08-12-06, 08:38 AM
I know I may be jumping the gun just a bit but really the cooler riding months are not that far away. That being said I've been looking at cycling jackets online and several look interesting...PI Barrier and Vagabond, Marmot Driclime, Performance Nantahala, etc.
The PI Barrier has caught my eye and I found a review of this jacket on cyclingnews.com where it got a terrific review. The only drawback was the fit which the reviewer said was tight across the back and shoulders but supposedly was corrected in later productions runs...the review was done on 04/20/06.
Here are his comments: "The overall fit and coverage of the jacket was quite good with the slightly extended sleeves and tail, but the shoulders and upper back area were noticeably tighter than I would have expected them to be, especially when in the drops or with a thicker jersey underneath. I understand that 'Form Fit' is supposed to be snug and aero, but I doubt that fear of busting a seam or two was what Pearl Izumi had in mind.
Pearl Izumi acknowledged the issue and reported that the production patterns have been revised relative to early versions to provide more room out back so this is likely a moot issue for those grabbing a Barrier Jacket off the clothing rack. Subsequent tries of a later production model produced a much better fit around the shoulders. Admittedly, though, my shoulders probably more closely resemble those of a swimmer than a cyclist so those of slighter build will likely be just fine. Regardless, this definitely qualifies for the ‘try before you buy' stamp, but if the fit is good, the Barrier Jacket would be a fine choice in winter cycling apparel".
Would be interested to know if anyone has this jacket or this problem or any other jacket that they are thrilled about. Performance has a 20% discount for the next few days plus 99 cents shipping so this looks like a good time to buy. :rolleyes:
The PI Barrier has caught my eye and I found a review of this jacket on cyclingnews.com where it got a terrific review. The only drawback was the fit which the reviewer said was tight across the back and shoulders but supposedly was corrected in later productions runs...the review was done on 04/20/06.
Here are his comments: "The overall fit and coverage of the jacket was quite good with the slightly extended sleeves and tail, but the shoulders and upper back area were noticeably tighter than I would have expected them to be, especially when in the drops or with a thicker jersey underneath. I understand that 'Form Fit' is supposed to be snug and aero, but I doubt that fear of busting a seam or two was what Pearl Izumi had in mind.
Pearl Izumi acknowledged the issue and reported that the production patterns have been revised relative to early versions to provide more room out back so this is likely a moot issue for those grabbing a Barrier Jacket off the clothing rack. Subsequent tries of a later production model produced a much better fit around the shoulders. Admittedly, though, my shoulders probably more closely resemble those of a swimmer than a cyclist so those of slighter build will likely be just fine. Regardless, this definitely qualifies for the ‘try before you buy' stamp, but if the fit is good, the Barrier Jacket would be a fine choice in winter cycling apparel".
Would be interested to know if anyone has this jacket or this problem or any other jacket that they are thrilled about. Performance has a 20% discount for the next few days plus 99 cents shipping so this looks like a good time to buy. :rolleyes: