We've had this jacket permanently stuffed in the pocket of our hydration pack through the winter. On some rides around, say, Dartmoor or the Peak District where it's particularly exposed, a lightweight windproof shell is an essential item to have at the ready.

Specialized's Windjacket Pro is a simple no-frills jacket. When it's cold, dry and windy and combined with appropriate layering underneath, it'll keep the worst of the weather out. The only way you'll know you're wearing it is because you won't be cold. The jacket is super lightweight and the stretchy "Stunner Stretch" fabric doesn't restrict your movements when wrestling the bike around the singletrack.

And if it rains you're not going to get soaked, not for a while at least - it'll keep out some damp but don't expect to stay dry if you're caught in a protracted heavy downpour. The usual drop tail covers your bum, and a flap behind the inside of the zip keeps the draft out. Elasticated cuffs and waist keeps everything in place too.