Winter Cycling - reasonably/mid-priced Winter jackets

[FONT=Impact][SIZE=4]Anybody have a good recommendation for a winter riding jacket. I saw the one posted, and it is out of my price range. I don't mind layering a little but here in Chicago, we NEED something to protect your from wind and often times brutal cold.

Any suggestions?

Thnx :D

[FONT=Impact][SIZE=4].

Any suggestions?

Thnx :D

I bought a Louis Garneau Spotlite last winter and was very impressed. I paid about $170 Cdn on sale and wore it to -15 C or 5 F and wasn't cold at all (just my feet - can't blame the jacket for that). It's water proof, windproof, has lots of venting options and lots of reflectivity, can also be worn when not on the bike. Not sure of pricing in the US, Canadian stuff is usually cheaper there. - Just checked, Performancebike.com has them for 50% off at $84.98!!
I'd certainly buy another one if I was in the market again.

I don't know whether they're easily available in the US, but I'm pleased with my Altura Nevis at around £50. Reviews are on www.bikemagic.com and I know www.wiggle.co.uk amongst other online retailers shop them, although I bought mine at the lbs.

my jacket of choice is a Columbia...
i guess it's technically (sp) it's just a shell w/ a zip-out liner. i don't use the liner, because i opt for layering, and the liner gets too bulky.
i purchased the jacket at a thrift store, and washed it in some laundry soap for outdoor gear (purchased mine at REI, but other camping stores carry it).
the Columbia is not biking specific, but the shell is wind-proof, water resistant, and large enough for layers.

hope this helps
(it's cold here today!!!)

Hi,
check this out.....
http://www.landsend.com/cd/fp/prod/1,,1_2_1931_48643_86695_65142_5,00.html?sptlt_num=181&struct_num=62&sid=0641001078972139060

You can try one on at Sears. I am going to do just that this weekend. A friend just bought one, and said it was almost identical to a jacket she tried at ll beans that cost $100. The two retailers are in a price war, could be true. Anyway, see what you think.

Burley jackets are the standard for commuters, messengers, and others in Oregon.

http://www.burley.com/products/raingear/default.aspx?p=Rain+Rider+Jacket&i=3

This morning I had my first chance of using my new Assos Gator jacket and Assos winter thermo gloves and I am truely amazed!

It was about 38F and windy at 6:15am in New York and I felt great.

Had a great ride for 1.5 hours and didn't real the cold at all.

Two great products!

Yes, I'm from Europe as well and wear an Altura Nevis,
under £50 and wear it rain or shine. Works well in the
winter with layers and is well vented and 100% waterproof.
Don't know if anyone stocks them in the states but I'd be surprised
if they didn't.

www.belfastandbeyond.com