This time of year, I always ride with shell as thin as an onion skin stuffed into a jersey pocket or my hydration pack — like the Pearl Izumi P.R.O. Barrier Lite. It’s not very breathable, nor is it waterproof. But like the emergency space blanket in the flap pocket of my pack, this 100 percent polyester nanoshell can protect me from the chill of a descent after a long, sweaty climb, or a sudden passing shower and it doesn’t otherwise penalize me with weight or bulk — the Pearl packs to the size of a candy bar and at 105 grams weighs about the same, too.

I prefer the P.R.O. Barrier Lite because it fits quite snugly without billowing in the wind, and the tail has a slight drop, but not a huge one, so it’s great as a cold-weather running piece as well. The difference there is that for running the Barrier Lite is almost too wind-tight, since it really only breathes through the front zipper. If I’m using it for slow-speed sports like climbing or running, it’s best that it be very chilly or high humidity.

The cuffs are elastic, as is the waistband, to prevent wind from blowing inside, and there’s one tiny zip pocket for keys (other jackets in this class often have a non-zip pocket, which isn’t as secure). By the way, if you’re comparison shopping for a shell or vest like this, make sure it’s made with rip-stop fabric. I’ve tested other thin shells that snag too easily because they don’t have this tear-proofing.

$80 LINK

Tagged as: apparel, cycling, running