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Vulpine absolutely took the urban cycling scene by storm when it launched in 2012 (coincidentally around the same time as Discerning Cyclist).
And its popularity grew and grew in the subsequent years with its stunning range of stylish cycling gear that looked just as good off the bike as if felt on it. Sadly, the company overstretched and despite receiving over £1 million in crowdfunding pumped into the company, it went into administration in 2017, before being saved by Mango bikes.
Sadly, things didn’t go well for Mango and the company found itself in trouble again towards the end of 2018 and was bought by new owners once again. The North Lane Group, a subsidiary of SportsPursuit, are now in charge of the company and they’re looking to get Vulpine running sustainably. That though, is a story for another day – with an exclusive interview with Vulpine’s new owners arriving in the next couple of weeks on Discerning Cyclist.
Today, we’re focussing on what Vulpine do best… creating kick-ass stylish cycling clothes.
Vulpine Harrington Rain Jacket
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Fit
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Function
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Style
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Value
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Quality
Summary
The Vulpine Harrington Rain Jacket is a stylish and functional jacket made for cycling in wet conditions. It features a waterproof and breathable fabric, adjustable cuffs, and reflective detailing for visibility in low light.
Pros
- Beautiful detailing
- Premium feel
- Cosy
- Great for cycling
- Looks great
Cons
- Expensive
Vulpine Harrington Cycling Rain Jacket
The Harrington Jacket is one of Vulpine’s classics, with the original model actually reviewed by Ste way back in 2013. This jacket was a massive success for the company and they sent me the latest iteration (the 2018 version) a few weeks back.
Even a first glance, this Harrington jacket is marvel. It’s gorgeous and feels seriously premium.
Of course, at £200 a pop, it bloody well should feel premium.
But before we get caught up on the price, let’s recognise just why this jacket is so good.
For starters, it’s absolutely jam-packed with nifty features. It has two zipped hand pockets, a button-down breast pocket, plus a final pocked on the lower back (right) with a magnetic seal.
Magnetism is a big feature of this jacket. If you want to zip the jacket up to the top on cooler days, you can seal the flap at the top with the magnetic clasp, while hidden at the front of the inside of the right hand pocket, you’ll find a small key pocket with a hook for your keys, which is again sealed with a magnet – this means that you can put your keys in your pocket without them scratching all the other contents.
Cycling Features
One of the things that I’ve always loved about Vulpine is that they knew how to perfectly tread the line between discreet cycling functionality and pure style. For example, the rear of the jacket has been dropped – but not too much – to cover your backside while riding, while the sleeves have also been cut in a certain way as to prevent them from riding up your arms when you’re pedalling.
There are also two reflective patches on either side of the back of the jacket, which are buttoned down, but can be popped open for when you ride at night. It’s these subtle little touches that make this jacket an absolute pleasure to cycle in.
The Harrington is made from a blend of Cotton, Polyester and Elastane, giving it a chic look and a subtly stretchy feel – again great for riding. There’s even a darted rear back air vent to provide some extra breathability.
Of course, as you might have guessed, this jacket has been designed to deal with riding in the rain. By no means is this an out-and-out waterproof jacket, but it will cruise through mild to medium rainy days – and keep you warm while you do so.
The cuffs of the jacket, as well as the neck, are also fleece lined. This feels great around the wrists and is generally nice around the neck. However, one qualm I have with fleece-lining on the neck is that my stubble occasionally catches and pulls in the fleece. It’s not a major problem and certainly doesn’t put me off wearing the jacket, it’s just an uncomfortable shock every once in a while.
But the big question remains, is this jacket worth £200?
Well, that of course depends on your own financial circumstances.
But if you’re in the market for a top-quality cycling jacket that will last you for years, then yes, the Vulpine Harrington Rain Jacket is a very good investment.
