Shimano Beaufort Jacket Review

With the Beaufort jacket, Shimano offers versatile protection for sporty winter rides, ensuring comfort and insulation in temperatures below 10°C. The fit here is a little more snug than usual for the Japanese brand.

By Guillaume Judas – Photos: Vincent Lyky / @3bikes.fr

Shimano’s winter clothing range may be less extensive than that of some specialized competitors, but it remains easier to read and understand. Most importantly, it covers the essentials, to cope with multiple climatic situations in autumn or winter. The Beaufort jacket is the top-of-the-range model, sold at a retail price of €169.95, and designed to withstand temperatures from approximately 0 to 10°C, with only a technical base layer underneath. For more variable conditions, Shimano relies on layering removable layers, with several windproof jackets or vests that can easily slip into a pocket when the thermometer climbs during the ride.

The Beaufort jacket stands out with slightly thicker materials than some fabrics used by competitors, such as Gore-Tex Infinium, but it is nevertheless perfectly cut and anatomically constructed to promote comfort in a speed-seeking position on the bike. The fit here is a little tighter (but not excessively so) than on jackets from previous collections. For those looking for a looser garment, there is the Element jacket, which has largely the same characteristics, while allowing for an additional jersey underneath.

Windproof and water-repellent

Made from a windproof and water-repellent membrane, the Beaufort offers excellent insulation against external elements, whether it’s cold wind or light rain. Inside, there’s a brushed fabric lining that provides warmth, but the overall garment remains breathable. Only in temperatures above 10°C and off-road (and thus sheltered from the wind) might one feel a little warm. Otherwise, the comfort of use is very high for intense or more leisurely rides on the road, even down to 0°C.

On the upper torso and shoulders, a black section with small patterns offers additional windproof protection. The high, lined collar prevents air infiltration, as do the elastic and relatively long cuffs. The long zip with an internal flap provides good insulation. The YKK cam-lock system secures the closure, and a chin guard prevents irritation. The flat elastic band at the lower back with a silicone lining offers good support in position. Three pockets at the back, one of which is reflective in the middle, and an internal sweat-proof pocket (unfortunately too small to protect a phone or ID) complete the jacket’s features.

Minimal wind resistance

Although thicker than some competing products, and with a slightly less stretchy fabric, the Beaufort jacket is easy to put on and adjust without restricting movement. We are immediately surprised by the anatomical cut that limits flapping, and by the impression of very limited wind resistance thanks to the weight of the fabric, as is sometimes the case with many jackets designed for winter training.

Whatever the chosen intensity, the Beaufort appears to be very breathable, and you never feel a chill on descents after sweating on a climb. In light rain, the outer part with a water-repellent treatment plays its role well, and water does not penetrate. It really takes a heavy downpour to end up getting wet, as the seams are not waterproof. Nevertheless, after a three-hour ride in light cold rain, only the lower back of the base layer is damp, due to contact with the tights. 

Moreover, these same Beaufort tights, also with an anatomical cut and windproof and water-repellent materials, are perfectly at home on wet rides. And unlike other previous models in the Shimano range, they create very few wrinkles at the knees.

The Beaufort collection is complemented by an insulating jersey, thinner than the jacket, and more suitable for early spring rides. Overall, this collection is aimed at competitors and avid riders, with its anatomical and fitted cuts that do not require excessive layering. The Beaufort jacket offers the same level of protection as competing products from specialist brands, but at a slightly more affordable price, which ensures excellent value for money.

=> SEE ALSO : All our Gear articles