Biehler Ambition Windshell Jacket
Every once in a while a piece of kit comes along that is just superb. Everything about it just works, and it performs and looks the business. When it happens, you never want to let that item go. If you could, you would fill your wardrobe with lots of that item, so you always had one to wear.
The Biehler Ambition windproof jacket/jersey for men and women is one such item and I have to say, was my favourite item of clothing for 2018. I guess that I’d better tell you why then…
Let’s deal with the design and colour first then shall we; it really does look stylish and modern, with clean and simple lines and just the right blend of Biehler colours. Branding is subtle and works well, but there’s no mistaking that this is a Biehler garment. From the merging colours to the light trim on the high collars and the attention to detail at the rear, this is a quality jacket that you will want to wear … even when it’s not wet and windy!
Time to examine the technicity of the jacket. It’s a race cut design and will look good with all Biehler shorts and tights, and the material is predominantly a Windstop DryStrom fabric, which is very light, very strong and very stretchy. As well as keeping the wind at bay, it also keeps out light rain, which is a bonus. Under the arms and down the sides, Biehler have used a thicker thermal fabric to keep you warm, which does affect under arm ventilation, but it’s a balance and this jacket is designed for the wind and light rain. There’s a elasticated gel band around the waist to keep it all in place and keep you looking good.
Breathability is okay for such a technical weather garment, with reasonable air circulation, and whilst a garment like this always has a price to pay on wicking, it’s surprisingly good, and will perform adequately for you when you’re cycling hard.
With three super pockets at the back and some wide stitched cuffs, it’s a no frills jacket that does what it’s intended for and is all you can ask. Our only point is the lack of a zipped pocket to the rear, which would have been perfect. The high collar will help to keep the wind away from you, and adds a stylish finish too.
Having used this through late winter, into spring and early summer, on a mix of fast and flat routes, and on steep climbs in the Yorkshire Dales, the freedom of movement and fit is excellent, and the jacket just feels right as it performs all day long. When the wind has been blowing a gale and the rain has been threatening or beginning to call, it’s keep me comfortable. Zips are a pet hate of mine, but this has a good zipper, tough and well tucked away from the wind. Stitching and finishing add to the quality feel of this jacket, which is definitely one of Biehler’s best products to date, and something that you all should have in your cycle locker.
No, I wasn’t using Zen Buddhist contemplation pre-ride — it was just dark! Perfect then – so far both boxes ticked by this quality German brand. Fit is also an important factor in windproof and waterproof jackets. We’ve all had to endure those sail-like jackets that flap around and bellow out, making us look like caricatures of weirdo cyclists, that normal people want to avoid. With this stylish Camou jacket, the tight-fitting body-shaping multi-panel race cut is fashioned to fit closely, reducing wind drag and improving water-repellence. Under the arms Biehler have even added some 4 –way stretch thermal material to keep you warm. Just the job on cold night rides.
Biehler state that the material used in this jacket is a breath-active and slightly elastic windstop material that hears the important name DRYSTORM. All I know is that it’s top quality and does its job superbly. I’ve tested it in the cold and windy Yorkshire Dales over early winter and never been cold. It’s kept the showers at bay and fitted me like a glove — no, a well-fitting jacket.
Tackling some tough routes and steep climbs, the material was as breathable as you need for the level of waterproofing required. I never felt uncomfortable and the jacket dealt adequately with the moisture, internally and externally.
Finishing things off, the collar is cut high to maximise protection from the wind and rain, and the tough zipper is neatly tucked away too. On the back you’ve got three ample sized pockets to store things away, and the compression on the pockets is excellent, stopping that annoying sag and rattling around. There’s a top quality anti-slip rubber MicroLine gripper finish all round, holding the jacket in place.
Price wise, this is currently comes in around £120 (UK) and we think this is a great price at this quality. We definitely like this jacket, and continue to be impressed by the quality, functionality and design from Biehler, who obviously take great pride in their brand.
It’s a great jacket that will serve you well and keep the style marks high too. Now go add this to your cycling wardrobe