Versatility is not always rewarded with laser-sharp function. But sometimes, with the best gear, you can get a little bit of “best in class” while enjoying a bit of the “journeyman special.” Such has been the case with the Craft Adapt Storm Jacket.
Craft Adapt Storm Jacket Features:
- VentAir X Wind fabric featuring excellent water resistance
- Zip-off sleeve design
- Two rear pockets are perfect for sleeves or other items
- Simple sleeve cuffs
- Zippered, waterproof rear pocket
- Price: $159.95
Storm jacket offers warmth and flexibility
Arriving just in time for many wet and cold days in the saddle, the Craft Adapt Storm Jacket has proven to be a reliable companion this winter. Though not your typical winter cycling jacket, the Adapt does just that — adapt. But it does so with a fair bit of function as well.
My very first ride with the Adapt Storm Jacket was in December. The temperature was initially cold (in the low 40’s) with light rain, but as the ride progressed, the temperature dropped and rain turned to wet, soggy snowflakes. Throughout those miles, this jacket maintained a comfortable and dry cocoon. With the Craft Extreme WindStopper base layer underneath, I was ready and willing to keep riding in continued comfort for many more miles.
Subsequent rides ranged from pure cold in the low 30’s to moderate warmth in the upper 40’s. This jacket performs admirably in that wide temperature range and beyond due to the zip-off sleeves. Once temps rise into the 50’s, this jacket can be transformed into a capable vest with the sleeves tucked into angled rear pockets.
When zipped off, the arm cuffs are nicely-finished and don’t feel at all like you just zipped the sleeves off. It then performs just as well as any midweight vest I’ve used.
The Adapt Storm Jacket utilizes the same VentAir X Wind fabric throughout, but varies in the backing. Some areas are double-backed for warmth and other areas are lined with a woven fleece-type fabric for improved wicking. The sleeves are particularly warm in the forearm area where the doubled fabric keeps things toasty. Surprisingly, this same area of the sleeves is quite baggy — almost feeling and looking like a classic nylon bomber jacket. While the lower arms are a bit baggier than I’d prefer, the sleeve cuffs are super soft and flexible — working well with just about any pair of gloves I wore.
Keeping the warmth in, the tall collar is the perfect diameter and height and the zipper pull is easily reached with gloves on. I’m notoriously picky about my zipper pulls and the one used on this jacket is perfect for one-handed use (just the way it should be).
And, as usual, I’ve cross-tested this jacket for winter trail running. While it’s certainly a cycling jacket first, it does a great job as a winter running jacket too.
The Good
- Surprisingly-capable jacket
- Water beads up nicely — even after extended periods
- When paired with a midweight base layer or jersey, it’s awesome
- Simple sleeve cuff works well under gloves
- Nice array of rear pockets (zippered, non)
- Flexibility of zip-off sleeves
- Nice collar height and diameter
- Zipper pull is easy
The Bad
- Can’t easily take sleeves on/off while riding
- Holds a fair bit of stink
- Sleeves are a bit baggy — almost looks like a flight jacket
- Rear of collar tends to fold over itself
The Bottom Line: Craft Adapt Storm Jacket
This jacket has proven to be surprisingly capable and versatile as a companion on a variety of cold-weather rides. The VentAir X Wind fabric repels water and maintains an excellent level of warmth. And, if things get too toasty, the sleeves can be zipped off when needed.
Buy Now: Available at Backcountry.com
