If you are heading out for a summer bike ride, or flying away for a cycling holiday in warmer climes, you’ll be hoping the sun will shine. But, of course, there is a chance of clouds, drizzle, rain and wind. That’s why most sensible cyclists take a lightweight cycling jacket with them. A fairer-weather cycling jacket should be lightweight and neat fitting. It should boast good windproofing qualities and offer water-repellent protection and great breathability. (If you know the rain will be heavy you will be better off paying more for a fully waterproof jacket made of fabrics such as Gore-Tex.) Other bonus features are a jacket that stuffs into a cycling jersey pocket or a saddlebag and great looks.

Three great summer cycling jackets

Odlo Tornado Packable Windproof Jacket

This windproof and water-resistant cycling jacket boasts a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish. It fits into a small stuff-sack for easy carrying. The fit and looks of this jacket are also fantastic. The women’s Odlo Tornado cycling jacket has a beautiful feminine design but still allows enough freedom of movement to feel comfortable in a cycling position. The colour range includes raspberry, purple, turquoise, black and white. The sizes go up to a generous UK26. There are a good range of sizes and colours at Zalando The men’s Odlo Tornado cycling jacket comes in bright green, blue and black and in sizes up to XL. Prices are around £60. See Odlo for stockists.

Endura Emergency Shell

The Endura jacket does what it says in the title. It’s there for when you suddenly need it in a wind or rainstorm.  It is very lightweight and stuffs into a tiny space (such as your jersey back pocket). It is also breathable and waterproof with fully sealed seams. The athletic fit and orange and black colour choice add to this well designed and thought out jacket. £89.99 from Endura

Altura Pocket Rocket jacket

A popular buy for many years, the tried and tested Altura Pocket Rocket is ideal for carrying with you on your bike just in case it rains. The lightweight jacket packs into its carry case and can be stored in a back pocket. The Altura jacket fabric is waterproof and breathable and comes in a choice of red, blue or hi-viz. There's also a reflective trim and the design is “performance cut”, which is tighter and lower at the back so you won’t feel a draft. You’ll find this jacket at around £45 in many retail outlets including Wiggle.