Review: Gore Torrent Men’s Jacket

The Gore Torrent Men’s Jacket is designed for riding in bad weather and delivers in all respects, if you’re looking for a form-fitting, windproof and highly packable model with some great features. However, while there are plenty of possibilities, carefully review the size chart as the fit is snug.

It is a three-layer model, made of 100% polyamide and considered the lightest jacket in its range; our medium weighs 190g and the size large would weigh only 15g more.

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It has taped seams, a semi-elasticated hem and a high collar lined with fine pile fleece. The cuffs slide over the gloves for good overlap and the long zipper tabs mean it’s easy to put on or even take off winter gloves.

Subtle retro-reflective details around the sleeves add extra presence, and I was delighted to discover a generous back zip pocket.

Sizing

Now, the size guide is something you really need to pay close attention to. I was rather excited by the medium’s offer and seeing as it seems to be my default these days, I forgot about it. But when Gore says pay attention to the guide — there’s a red note on their site about the new sizing — they’re not kidding.

Obviously it’s designed to be snug and contoured, but I was a little disturbed to find it particularly snug around the chest. Luckily the fabric has plenty of stretch and I had no problem fitting a mid-weight winter jersey or long-sleeve winter base underneath, and I always found plenty of length in the sleeves and around the back.

During this time, there was no trace of lost energy, stealing conversation, but no sense of constriction either, leaving me to focus on the ride.

Waterproofing

I’ve worn it through several hours of steady winter rain with no sign of it slipping through the fleece-lined collar or anywhere else, and it all blocks icy blasts as well.

The water visibly beads up and rolls off. The zippers are also easy to use in the gloves, and the back waist access pocket is especially handy.

This pocket is sensibly proportioned and will handle larger mini pumps, tubes, snacks, etc. It also doesn’t bunch up at the back or coax out the pockets of smartphones and compact cameras, which has been the case with some similar models.

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Although this is primarily road wear, I’ve walked through winding forest trails and bridleways without thinking about it, and the inevitable banging from passing foliage made no impression on the fabric.

On the road, no matter what base layer I paired it with, it was very effective at managing moisture and I never felt clammy at a consistent 18-20 mph at low speeds. air temperatures between 14 and 4 ° C.

Assess

£229.99 is a serious investment, although there are still (if not by many) more expensive options. The 7Mesh Gold Jacket is lighter at 93g and easier to pack, but costs £250, for example – although that’s only increased by a pound since we tested it in 2017. It also has a pocket and a “pass-through” vent to access jersey pockets.

I have had good experiences with 7Mesh Cypress Hybrid Jacket, which is £175 and another comfortable model with excellent defense against wind, rain and cold. However, the specification is not as high and the silicone gripper is not as tenacious.

If you don’t like that highly visible “fireball” red, there are navy and black versions instead.

Summary

I was really impressed with the performance of the Gore Torrent and, although expensive, it’s an investment that should pay for itself in happy, comfortable miles. Check the charts first, though – Gore’s new sizing is accurate, but not necessarily what you might generally expect.

Verdict

Very protective top quality jacket with a nice slim fit without flaps – as it should be for the price…