Made from a 2.5 layer waterproof fabric with taped seams it kept us dry on a ride recently that saw frequent and heavy downpours. We gave it a good battering in some really manky conditions with plenty of mud, and it protected us well from the elements. Despite its light construction and feel, it’s proved tough and durable so far.

Breathability has always been the trade-off with waterproof jackets and the Signal just about manages to cope in most circumstances. However, throw yourself up a steep hill at full tilt and you’ll soon overcome the fabric’s ability to cope, and it can get hot, steamy and sweaty inside. That’s true of even the most expensive breathable fabrics though.

Long side vents help combat sweatiness and the zips are waterproof to keep out the wet when closed.

It’s a good job dhb have added generous pit zips that go a long way to helping you combat any overheating. Extending from the armpit right down the sides, these double zipped flaps help manage the temperature inside the jacket. Along with the full-length zipper on the front, you can encourage enough airflow to prevent it getting too stuffy inside.

The dhb Signal is a well-shaped jacket that offers a good fit without being too flappy. It’s a bit longer at the rear and higher at the front, with drawcord adjusters in the hem to tailor the fit. The articulated arms are just the right length to not produce any resistance when jostling the bike along the trail.

There’s one zipper rear pocket concealed by a flap.

Welcome details include velcro cuffs, two zipped side pockets and one large rear pocket and tall fleece-lined collar. There’s enough room inside for wearing a couple of layers on colder days.

dhb offer a choice of colours, this stylish black or a hi-vis yellow colour option. Both are replete with reflective details to provide full 360 degree visibility, making it a good choice if you want a jacket that’s as good on the trail as it is for the daily commute.

Reflective dots help keep you visible when you have to ride on Tarmac.

We’ve been wearing the Signal over just a long sleeve base layer on recent rides and it’s proved to be comfortable and to offer good protection against the elements. With just a single layer underneath it’s good for days of changeable weather and we’ve worn it for a couple of hours at a time. Makes a good emergency jacket too as it rolls up small and can easily be carried in a hydration pack, just in case you might need it.

Verdict

A feature-packed, well-designed and hard-working jacket, the Signal is an affordable winter jacket.

Pros

Properly waterproof
Los of well-thought-out features
Good fit

Cons

Breathability

Price: ‘List’ price £59.99, currently £41.99

More information: dhb Signal jacket

What dhb says about the Signal jacket

Two colour versions of the Signal Jacket are available and will appeal to different riders. The Day Light visibility version allows a no compromise to dusk till dawn rider offering a strong stand out colour which means even in the dullest of days the colour of the jacket will get you noticed. Coupled together with a 360 degree approach on the reflective material it makes this jacket one to get you noticed. The Signal Jacket also comes in a darker hue jacket, so you lose the daytime benefit but you gain a multi use garment which extends the use further than your time on the bike. The same 360 degree approach to reflectivity has been taken to ensure that any low light riding will be still safer than a standard black jacket.

The jacket has been designed with the commuter in mind so the jacket is cut a little longer at the front so to protect the wearers’ lower garments. The cut also provides ample room to wear a thicker mid layer for those chillier days. With a full YKK zip and a fleece lined collar all the small details have been taken care of.