Originally Posted by
zeo_max
So, I've never owned a cycling specific winter jacket. I've heard that they work differently, i.e. the technology they have keeps you warm even though they're super thin. This however makes it difficult for me to choose the right one for me. I've been to the LBS and employees tell me that a certain jacket will keep me super warm. Then I look at it and it barely has any fleece lining inside. This makes me wary of dropping $200 on such a jacket. I also know that if I choose one with a huge lining I could burn up inside of it (I saw a Specialized one like that).
When the temperature dips below 30, I probably won't be going out at all. Even anything below 40 would take a lot of willpower from me. I'm not a cold weather person.
The first thing to know is that more material can make you colder, so don't make the mistake of thinking that just because the jacket is light that it won't be warm. The
jacket I wear cycling is awesome for any temp you'd encounter even though it looks/feels like a wind breaker to most people. I wear mine below freezing, in rain in the 30's, or if it's dry in the 50's for that matter. You'll notice that you can get it for a killer price right now.
If you only ride when it's dry, a windbreaker will do just fine. If you ride when it's wet, you'll want something that is very lightweight, waterproof, and breathable such as Gore-Tex Active Shell -- though there are alternatives such as eVent. Even skiers who are out in temps well below freezing typically wear only a shell with a wicking technical layer. Most cyclists wear WAY too much. If you make this mistake, you'll sweat too much at best. But you're also likely to feel cold.
Another thing to know is people look for too many features in jackets that cost more -- for example, pockets reduce breathability. A good cycling jacket is just light and plain.
DISCLAIMER: I am a product tester for Gore-Tex, and I receive consideration for evaluating their products and sharing my views. However, even though I already have a ton of their gear, I actually bought the jacket I recommended on the open market. The only caveat I'd mention with that jacket is that if you wear club fit jerseys, you'll probably find the jacket too tight as it is race cut.