Why is the Castelli Perfetto ROS 2 Jacket so good?

It isn’t hyperbole to say that the original Castelli Gabba changed how cyclists dress in foul weather forever.

It might not have been until the now infamous Milan-San Remo of 2013 that the world became fully aware of this clothing revelation, however we now shudder to think of what we wore before the Gabba enlightened us. Moving on nearly a decade and into 2022, Castelli are still at the forefront of raising innovation and expectations for what winter kit should and can do. Whilst the Gabba is still seen as the pinnacle of foul weather race wear, the long sleeve version, the Perfetto LS has proven more popular amongst the masses.

What’s different about the new Perfetto ROS 2 Jacket?

The changes to the new Perfetto ROS 2 Jacket are subtle, but help improve fit, breathability, and practicality. Changes have been implemented off the back of feedback from Quickstep – Alpha Vinyl riders, which will then benefit the everyday cyclist.

New seams

The eagle eyed may have noticed that the new Perfetto ROS 2 Jacket has only 1 taped seam going over the top of the jacket, with the horizontal taped seam now nowhere to be seen. This is a result of a panel re-design moving the previous top shoulder seam round the back of the jacket and out of the way of driving rain.

Increased ventilation

To aid further ventilation options, the new jacket has a double YKK zip allowing the rider to choose whether they undo the jacket from the top or the bottom when wanting to reduce body temperature

More pockets

One of the requests from pro riders for the previous jacket was to have fewer, larger pockets which were easier to access with thick winter gloves on. Castelli delivered, however for most non pro riders the reduction in pocket from 3 to 2 meant it was harder to organise and seperate belongings. Castelli have listened and reinstated 3 easy access pockets.

Fit and sizing

From consumer feedback, Castelli have increased the arm size which means riders who haven’t skipped ‘arm day’ are more likely to find the new jacket less restrictive. In addition to this, there is slightly more room in the chest and shoulders so cyclists of different shapes and sizes should be able to get a better fit. This is still a race piece though and retains it’s performance fit for maximum aerodynamic performance.

The sizing is also larger from a size medium upwards, so we would recommend buying your usual Castelli size (and not going up a size) when buying this jacket.

Is it worth upgrading to the new jacket?

The Perfetto jacket has been our best-selling winter jacket for years, with a plethora of accolades and praise from the media and consumers along the way. If better ventilation and practicality are things you strive for in your cycling clothing, then the new Perfetto ROS 2 Jacket is a worthy update to your winter wardrobe this year.

View Perfetto Ros 2 Jacket