Bike Perfect Verdict
Lightweight pack jacket that offers great protection and performance but only if the casual fit, sizing and pocket placement works for you
Pros
- +
Good protection from the conditions
- +
Recycled fabric
- +
lightweight
- +
large hood
Cons
- -
Underarm pocket is saggy
- -
Get a thicker, warmer jacket for worse weather conditions
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The design and uncompromising material spec of 7mesh kit have a long history of being our go-to foul weather gear. The Copilot jacket is great for those after a more casual fit, but performance pilots will be better off with the Rebellion jacket.
Designed as a super-light jacket that still gives full weather protection, the seam-taped Paclite Plus fabric is fantastic at shrugging off water and wind without soaking you with sweat on long climbs. At just 150g (slightly dirty size medium) it’s not contributing much to your calorie burn either. The peaked hood slides snugly over helmets to add a welcome extra layer of protection and comfort when things get really bad.
The material is also designed to be more durable than most lightweight fabrics, so you can wear it through bushes, under bags or stuff it into them (or the underarm pocket) without worrying about trashing it. If you do damage it, 7mesh offers various repair and replacement discount options, and the 100-per cent recycled fabric also means you can wave to passing wildlife without feeling guilty.
The minimalist design means limited features, but it definitely doesn’t mean limited fabric. Our medium test jacket was vast, so sizing down is a smart idea if you’re slim. While it’s handy having the underarm pocket big enough to swallow the jacket, it only works with a more upright riding position. Otherwise, it dangles low enough that the contents bounce off your left leg. While arm length was generous, the lightly elasticated cuffs also act like air intakes which can get cold.
The good news is that if you want a more performance cut jacket, the 7mesh Rebellion is a lot slimmer with tapered zip sleeve closures. Entrance slots for getting to jersey back pockets means that the fact the front pocket still dangles when loaded is less of an issue.
Verdict
The 7mesh Copilot jacket is a good option for riders looking for a lightweight jacket to wear in the cold, fog, or light rain. We would recommend a more heavy-duty jacket for when the weather gets extra bad.
Tech Specs: 7mesh Copilot jacket
- Price: $250 / £220
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Weight: 150g
