Altura Nightvision Typhoon Men’s Waterproof Jacket

Altura has released its latest offering for the commuter market, the Nightvision Typhoon Men's Waterproof Jacket, reviewed by road.cc. The jacket, priced at £120, is lauded for its solid waterproofing and visibility features, essential for urban cycling. However, the review highlights a significant design flaw: a "capacious hood" that, while perhaps offering ample coverage on the bike, reportedly undermines the jacket's utility and aesthetic appeal once dismounted.

This assessment places the Altura Nightvision Typhoon within a perennial struggle for cycling apparel manufacturers: balancing on-bike performance with off-bike practicality. For the discerning commuter, a jacket isn't merely a piece of equipment; it's often the outer layer for an entire day. Previous Altura Nightvision iterations have typically prioritised function over form, a sensible approach for safety-conscious riders. Yet, in an increasingly competitive market, where brands like Rapha and Gore are bridging the gap between performance and style, a bulky, impractical hood represents a missed opportunity for broader appeal.

Ultimately, Altura has delivered a functional piece of kit for its intended purpose. But in an era where versatility is king, a jacket that performs admirably on the bike yet falters off it risks being seen as only half the solution.