We just took delivery of the tidy looking Carve from ION.

Super stretchy water-repellent material (88% Polyamid, 12% Elasthane), comfy fit (this is size 52/L, the middle of six sizes), two colour choices (Black or Olive) and it comes in at £96.

There are neat touches such as reflective details and a glasses wipe stashed in the lower-right pocket, plus elastic pull-cord fastenings on the hood (“three-point regulation … helmet compatible”) and waist, and Velcro at the arms.

OUR RESIDENT FABRICS EXPERT, SEAN WHITE, GAVE US HIS THOUGHTS ON THE CARVE:

“A wind resistant riding top that will shrug a few showers off. If you’re out in the mountains, that ain’t going to keep you dry; however, if you’re trail centre riding or on evening blasts it’s going to be all you want. Loads of stretch for mobility, and I like a jacket with a hood (for a beer outside the pub after a Wednesday ride). I’d trade the pockets and zips for some side-venting, but it adds to its value as a multi-purpose jacket.

If you keep the DWR (Durable Water Repellent coating) replenished it’s all you would want for most riding situations. It keeps you snug enough but the breathability is excellent because there’s no windproof membrane (riding in forests like the majority of us do here in the UK, that shouldn’t be a problem). It’s got a clean back on it, unfussy, so it’s not going to interfere with a backpack.

It’s a quality bit of kit that’s going to last you, so the price is fair, and you know that in five years’ time it’s going to be performing the same, because there’s nothing to degrade on it.

Well, it’s not light, but it’s well built. It’s not super packable, and it’s not watertight, but it’s the sort of jacket you’d probably put on and leave on on a crappy day, because of the breathability.”

WHAT ION SAY:

“Very lightweight & breathable soft shell jacket in a bike specific cut. The double weave constructed fabric (maximum 4way_Stretch) is pimped with a durable water repellency treatment for all those rainy, windy and cold days. Two zipped front pockets and a smaller chest pocket including an integrated glasses wipe. 3_Point_Hood regulation (helmet ready) and adjustable hem for a perfect fit and freedom of movement. Very technical look due to many bonded details. Reflective_Details for additional safety on evening rides. CARVE on your all-weather trail experiences.”

Cost: £96
More information: ION Carve Softshell Jacket