I have been riding the Gore Wear C5 Infinium Hybrid Jacket for a couple months now here in Utah since the weather turned cold. Last year we reviewed the Gore C5 Active Jacket a full Gore-Tex® Jacket. The new Infinium Hybrid offers similar protection from rain and cold weather in a stretch soft fleece lined fabric called GORE-TEX Infinium. It is not as waterproof as the C5 Active Jacket, but offers a more comfortable, quite, jacket for cooler days with a chance of precipitation.
With all Gore Wear products we have tested, quality is expected and usually delivered. The C5 Infinium jacket is no different. I top sections of the jacket, arms, shoulders, and back are covered by traditional Gore-Tex® fabric. The chest, under arms and back is covered by a soft quite and breathable layer.
The key to the relatively new Gore Infinium splits the lines of waterproof and breathability. Infinium fabric provides a bit of warmth and a bit of waterproofing with a lot more breathability and comfort. The Infinium offers a four way stretch, and makes it a lot more comfortable to ride both road and mountain bike in.
The pocket zippers on the hand have small inconspicuous pulls. The chest pocket zipper is easier to grasp with gloves on and a great place to stash a phone.
A panel of Gore-Tex® on the rear of the jacket makes for easy clean up after a wet or muddy ride. There are also two reflected tabs on the side of the back panel for visibility.
Large internal pockets are great for stashing arm or leg warmers, gloves, large phones, and snacks.
The hood can be rolled up and secured with a plastic button. It works under a helmet but not over. It can also be tied with a draw cord to help with fit and side visibility.
Features
- A lightweight trail jacket for riding in mixed conditions
- Material offers windproof and highly water-resistant protection
- Breathable membrane prevents overheating and clamminess
- Hybrid construction is lightweight, warm, comfy, and packable
- Adjustable under-helmet hood can be stowed away when not in use
- Taped seams on shoulders and back for added weather protection
- Stretch panels ensure freedom of movement on the bike
- Adjustable waist hem with cord stop keeps mud and moisture out
This must watch video explains the hybrid jacket and some of the amazing technology that Gore Wear has created.
Material
Membrane/laminate Gore-Tex Infinium
Face fabric 55% polyester, 45% nylon,
Shoulders, upper arms Gore-Tex Active,
Front and back panels, underarms 87% polyester, 13% elastane,
Lining 100% polyester
Final Verdict
This is not just a cycling jacket. It works well for a slim fitting all around active jacket. There are no back pockets, so you won’t be getting strange looks wearing it to the movies. However, you won’t have that familiar pocket you are so use to reaching for. It’s my current go to jacket for mountain biking.
It does a pretty good job of regulating heat as the temperature fluctuates during a ride.
The jacket fits true to size as a medium. I am 5’10” 160 lb and it fits me perfect with a single layer under. It would not be considered a race fit, but it’s slimer that typical mountain bike specific jackets.
The jacket has held up to some mud and rain rides as well as machine washed and hung dried. It’s been used with back packs and hip packs.
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