PEARL iZUMi Attack Hybrid Jacket Review

While there are definitely more appropriate cold-weather riding jackets, the PEARL iZUMi Attack Hybrid Jacket is something of a silver bullet across a wide variety of temperatures and conditions. With stretchy versatility, this jacket is clutch in a variety of conditions.

PEARL iZUMi Attack Hybrid Jacket Features:

• Highly breathable and stretchy 3L polyester wind-blocking fabric on body and arms
• Lightweight stretch woven fabric under arms for breathability
• PI Dry® C0 technology for an PFAS-free DWR
• YKK front zipper
• 3 rear pockets
• Elastic cuffs and hems minimize bulk
• Made with recycled content
• BioViz® powerful reflective elements
• MSRP: $155

The Wunderjacket

Rarely do I intentionally ride in the rain, but it’s always nice to be prepared. However, I do often ride when it’s cold and dry (in the 40s). If I get caught in a little bit of rain, I do appreciate having water resistant fabrics. Of course, a more expensive Gore-Tex or eVent jacket can also excel for those same conditions, but they just might bust your budget. With that, the PEARL iZUMi Attack Hybrid Jacket has your back (literally).

The primary surfaces of the Attack Hybrid Jacket are a stretchy, 3-layer affair. But, the underarms and front hem feature stretch woven fabric for breathability (hence the “hybrid” designation). In my years of jacket testing, hybrid is typically a good thing — and that’s certainly true here. Yes, it does lack taped, waterproof seams and won’t withstand riding in a downpour, but that’s okay with me. If sour weather is imminent, I can pull out something more weatherproof. But, for 90% of cool-weather riding, the PEARL iZUMi Attack Hybrid is just right.

Slipping it on, the fit is noticeably trim and efficient. PEARL iZUMi calls it “form fit.” With my typical size medium, there is enough room for a midweight base layer or thermal long-sleeve jersey. When layered up appropriately, this jacket can be comfortable down to the upper 40s and maybe a little lower if you run hot. I’ve been comfortably riding in the 50s with a short-sleeve Le Col ARC Merino Jersey and lower than that with a long-sleeve base layer. It can even be made warmer by layering up the PRO Alpha Layer (but it does get a little snug). Should you also wear it with a short-sleeve jersey, the interior of the fabric feels great next-to-skin and never clammy.

I really appreciate the cut and hem/sleeve lengths here. I have regular proportions and they both provide excellent coverage. The hem stays put and the sleeves are great either over or under a variety of gloves. Additionally, the jersey pockets hold ample stuff for long and short rides.

I’ve loved wearing it on road, gravel and mountain bike rides. It has been an excellent option for cold mornings up American Fork Canyon or on the local gravel or singletrack routes.

The 3L fabric blocks the wind extremely well and does shed water as well. As mentioned, it offers outstanding 4-way stretch to flex with every movement on the bike. You’ll never be “jacket-bound” while wearing the Attack Hybrid. Breathability is outstanding and remains of the best features of this jacket. The combination of the weather protection and breathability is just right. When it comes time to unzip or zip up this jacket, the YKK zipper and great zipper pull are easy-to-use. I do wish it had a two-way zipper to gain access from the hem, when needed.

PEARL iZUMi gets bonus points for the microfiber on the collar’s interior and behind the zipper panel. And, the collar isn’t too tight, so a jersey worn underneath won’t get all bunchy. As an added bonus, it does have a hang loop, which I always appreciate.

Fit: I’m 5’11” and 175 lbs, wearing the size medium (my usual size with all things PEARL iZUMi).

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