Castelli Women's Alpha Ros Jacket

Could this be the ultimate winter training jacket? Probably.

Castelli have pulled all the stops out with the Alpha Ros jacket. Using Gore-Tex WindStopper fabric is a good start. Not only does it keep the cold air out, it breathes extremely well and, importantly, the membrane itself is waterproof. Typically, WindStopper garments don't get sealed seams, but Castelli have thrown the rule book out the window and taped selected seams around the shoulders and high stress areas which make the Alpha Ros practically waterproof, and by practically, we mean you'd need to be out in heavy rain for several hours to experience any wetness creeping through.

So, it keeps the wind and rain out. What really separates the Alpha from other jackets is the overall construction. The outer WindStopper layer is fixed to an inner insulating layer which allows better airflow, breathability and ventilation. Further more, using WindStopper instead of a typical waterproof hardshell fabric means the Alpha Ros is soft-to-touch, doesn't crinkle, and even stretches so you can be comfortable on the bike. 

Raw edge cuffs and waist sit flush with your gloves and tights for no gaps and minimal bulk. Waterproof zippers again keep the rain out while 3 handy rear pockets carry all your essentials. 

The bottom line is that the Alpha works in cold weather and wet weather. When choosing a jacket for winter, you no longer need one warm and one waterproof. The Alpha Ros does it all in one, and does it extremely well. If you plan on riding in all weathers this winter, and you want maximum utility and comfort on the bike, you need the Alpha Ros.