Castelli Gabba 2 Review: 

A crazy Norwegian adventurer once said ‘There is no such thing as bad weather, just unsuitable clothing’. As the morning temperatures have plummeted over the last few weeks, with a few dipping below 0 degrees, I found myself desiring some more ‘suitable’ clothing. When in the market for a winter jacket one cannot go far until they encounter the ‘Gabba’. Castelli’s ‘Gabba’ jacket is one of those products that has reached a level of fame that it becomes synonymous with its application. Like you may say pass me a ‘Kleenex’ or put a ‘Band Aid’ on it, there are those, so entrenched in cycling jargon, that they will actually refer to bad weather as ‘Gabba’ weather. 

I decided to take the plunge and buy the Castelli Gabba 2. I picked up a great deal from Wiggle,$171 with an extra $15 off. the ‘Gabba’ jacket is part of Castelli’s ‘Foul weather race protection’ range I. After tossing up between the LS and SS versions I decided the SS was more versatile when paired with Castelli’s Nano-flex arm warmers. This is the configuration that a lot of the pro road teams have been using for a number of years (even some of those not sponsored by Castelli!). 

The finishing on the product is classic Castelli quality. The Gore WindShield material feels firm and strong, almost like a thin wetsuit material. Attention to detail is excellent with a full zip shroud, drainage pockets and special butt flap (more on this later). 

It is an Italian pro race fit, so it runs small. I am 6’6” and 82kg and the XL fits like a glove. It is just long enough in the front and with the but flap at the rear comes down well past my waist. Although I can’t seem to get the butt flap to stay in place, it rides up under the jersey and while it isn't really an issue, it kind of defeats its purpose. It is definitely more comfortable to wear than your traditional flappy, sweaty, rain cape. It feels just like wearing a summer jersey, except you are warm and dry. 

I tested it on my morning commute today. When worn with a thermal base layer, I was toasty and warm in 5-6 degree temperatures. Castelli recommends the jersey for use in 6-16 degrees however with clever layering you could definitely stretch this to the lower end of the spectrum. I am yet to try it in a full deluge however Im sure it wont be long until I get this opportunity. 

Overall it is an incredibly well thought out and versatile jacket. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a jacket that they can wear commuting, racing and social riding in a variety of conditions.