If you shut your eyes and put the Core Rain Jacket on, you could be forgiven for thinking that you had imagined the whole thing. At only 124g (in size small), this is an extremely lightweight jacket. Seriously, I have underwear heavier than this jacket, but we won’t go into that.

We received an attractive red coloured version of the Core, but it is also available in Chartreuse (a neon yellow), Navy and Black, in sizes XS all the way through to XXL. The Core is made from 2.5 layers of 100% Nylon on the main body and three layers of 100% Nylon on the sleeves. I must admit I wasn’t that taken with the texture of the jacket when I first got my hands on it - it almost feels like it’s made from paper - but you can fold the Core down so small and so flat that it will comfortable fit in your back trouser pocket, which is awesome for those who want to keep things as light and aerodynamic as possible.

This jacket has fully taped seams and an AquaGuard® zip for waterproofing, and six ventilation holes under the armpits to help regulate body temperature. The zip is off-centre to prevent drafts and with dropped tail and short front for on-bike fit. I struggled a bit with the longer arms as I have a smaller frame they were a little too long for me which created a wrinkling in the material as I had to push them back  However, the Core also features on-bike fit with an adjustable draw cord at the hem and elasticated inner cuffs to help ensure a perfect fit on your wrists.

As we have come to expect from Rapha, this jacket is beautifully finished with subtle branding stitched on the arm, and reflective elements on the sleeves and rear for improved visibility on the roads.

All in all, the Rapha Core is a great little jacket, light and compact enough to be stored in your back pocket whilst being tough enough to keep out the wind and the rain. RRP £100

For Latest Price Click Below

Buy now

4.5 out of 5

Pros

Ultra-light

Waterproof

Windproof

Compact

Stylist

Bike-fit

Breathable

Cons

Sleeves too long for my frame