September 20/16 12:15 pm - Review: Race Face Team Chute Jacket

Posted by Editoress on 09/20/16
 

Although the vast majority of cyclists know Race Face for their components the company has always had a selection of very interesting clothing, most of which is intended for mountain biking. If I look back over the last decade I've had a couple of Race Face jackets that I've used so much that I've worn them out after many rides and many runs through the washing machine. They were among my favourites.

Waterproof

Attached Hood - with 3-point adjustment

Welded underarm zipper vents

This time the newest Race Face wearable is a full on rain jacket, the Team Chute. It is waterproof. It claims as such and, through my experience, it is. The key is something called Storm Lite fabric, which is a treated polyester fabric, laminated to a waterproof breathable membrane and then attached to a lightweight inner mesh. I've never encountered Storm Lite before, but doing a bit of research it turns out that it has been around for a few years and seems to be well received in the adventure sports industry.

The Team Chute Jacket has just about every feature that you can think of:

• Attached Hood - The 3-point adjustable hood has shock cords on each side of the hood and a third in back to cinch down with ease when not in use. ( Editor Note: the hood will fit over a helmet)
• Brim stiffener
• Adjustable waist system - Easy-adjust cinch cord and release at inner hem
• High collar with brushed tricot lined chin-guard and zipper garage - Provides comfort and protection from the elements
• Welded underarm zipper vents - Custom pullers offer zipper control with gloved hands to maximize air circulation and cool your core mid-ride
• Velcro cuff closure - Keeps snow, wind, and rain from seeping in at the wrists
• Hand warmer pockets
• Internal media pocket - Easy to access welded pocket keeps your MP3 player, iPhone, or other valuables secure and dry

I couldn't find any fault with the Team Chute. It had every feature that I've ever wanted in a technical rain jacket. It fits well and doesn't hinder your movement at all when you are riding. The seams are all well sealed and I never got even so much as a dribble inside. I found myself deliberately going for rides because I knew I would stay dry. The jacket is a bit warm when you're riding above 15C but I don't know of any jacket that will not heat you up from the inside at that temp.

My first ride with the Team Chute was in absolute slop. We were riding in New York State and managed to get to the top of the mountain when the storm came over the hills. Teeming rain. Hard packed trail turned to muddy stream bed in minutes. In other words, about as bad as it gets. I stayed perfectly dry.

But where the Team Chute really shines is that after being coated in slop the jacket still came clean in the wash. It still works perfectly in terms of waterproofing after several washes. I rinsed the mud off as soon as I could after the ride before it went into the machine.

The Race Face Team Chute is an excellent jacket and has become my fave for wet conditions. It isn't cheap, at a MSRP of $219.99, but you are getting one heck of a jacket for the price. My only wish is that they had pants to go with it.

See all of the Race Face products at www.raceface.com

Review and photos by Mike Badyk