Hey, it’s raining outside … are you still thinking of going for a ride? Some might think you’re crazy. But with the right protection from the elements, it’s not such a big deal. Sugoi’s RPM Jacket supplies the protection; you supply the crazy.Waterproof and breathable is the dream combination of winter performance gear – unfortunately, in practice those two elements are almost mutually exclusive; true waterproof stuff doesn’t breathe, while truly breathable stuff doesn’t resist water. It’s a tricky equation that’s practically impossible to solve.

Sugoi’s RPM jacket has outstanding water resistance, as the entire exterior surface is composed of HydraShield, made with a woven outer shell fabric containing DWR coating. It also seals off all the places water might sneak in, with a fully waterproof zipper and waterproof taped seams. The rear hemline stays in place, and the mock-turtle-height microfleece collar can be secured with a Velcro closure. In other words, water’s not getting in this thing.On the breathability side of the equation, the RPM uses takes a couple of different approaches to let sweat and heat escape; one is a fabric strategy, and the other is a design element.

The design element is quite simple: large core zippers on either side of your trunk allow air to pass through and help regulate moisture management and body temperature. Another benefit of the core zippers is that they allow you to reach into the back pockets of your base layer – an important point, as the RPM doesn’t have any pockets of its own.