This post may contain affiliate links, which help to keep Discerning Cyclist rolling. Learn more.
I have been a fan of Cleverhood since I saw their yellow Rover Anorak jackets being worn at a Bike Bus in the USA via social media.
I was immediately taken aback by the bright colour, innovative design and practicality, as well as their support of a great initiative as they donate 5% of their profits to street equity organisations.
From waterproof capes to their Cleverhat, they have a wide range of products designed to keep you warm, dry and visible when you cycle.
Although I was tempted by the War on Cars option, I was keen to test the Bike Bus version of their Rover Anorak jacket as I have high hopes of setting one up locally, and it seemed like the best option for my needs.
Cleverhood Rover Anorak Review
- Fit
- Function
- Style
- Value
- Quality
Summary
A robust, stylish anorak with dual-layer polyester construction providing waterproof and breathable protection. Features reflective heat transfers, helmet-compatible hood, large zippered and kangaroo pockets, and long cut for extra coverage. Lightweight and available in six vibrant colors. Unisex and offered in four sizes.
Pros
- Durable, waterproof and dries quickly
- Useful large pocket for storage
- Sturdy hood to keep head dry
- Stylish design
Cons
- The zips felt quite stiff initially
- The bright colours show marks easily
First Impressions
My jacket arrived carefully wrapped with a lovely red bow. Along with the jacket, inside there was a helpful information card.
I was pleased to learn that Cleverhood has a female designer and founder, Susan Mocarski, who took it upon herself to design high quality, practical and stylish unisex rainwear for cycling as she noticed a gap in the market that needed to be filled.
Despite me being quite petite, I was pleasantly surprised to find the small size fitted incredibly well. The helpful option to adjust the sleeves via velcro was welcome. I also appreciated the use of ‘Roomy’ to describe the larger size options.
As the brand name suggests, the hood is the focus of these jackets and rightfully so. It feels sturdy and is easily adjustable. As a glasses wearer it also gave me hope that for the first time my glasses may be protected from rain while cycling thanks to the handy stiff peak as usually I have to take them off!
I was also struck by the overall quality of the jacket. Compared to other rainwear, it is incredibly light and feels very comfortable, rather than heavy and cheap.
Key Features
Unisex
Weight: 0.7 lbs (318 grams)
100% Polyester fabric
2-layer fabric with waterproof and breathable (15K/15K mm) membrane and PFC-free C6 durable water repellent (DWR)
Waterproof YKK zipper
Helmets go OVER the hood for best coverage and optimized peripheral vision
3M reflective heat transfer on both front and back
Large front pocket
Large kangaroo pocket (behind pocket) for hands and other gear
Long back for full coverage for seating and riding needs
Fully seam-sealed
Testing
Thankfully the arrival of the jacket coincided with a very rainy time of year (the sunshine in the photos was a rare day of no rain!) so I had plenty of opportunity to put it to the test.
I greatly appreciate how much thought has gone into all aspects of the design of this jacket.
Starting with the hood, it worked so well underneath my helmet and kept my head and face (and glasses!) dry. This was aided by the handy zipper which made sure my upper half was completely covered.
I experienced one of my wettest commutes ever while wearing the Rover Anorak but remained completely dry, plus my jacket dried very quickly when I got to work. It also helped me to keep warm but felt breathable thanks to good air flow.
Similarly I wore it off my bike for a few hours in continuous rain but marvelled at how water repellent the material is as the beads of rain just slipped off. Again, both me and my pocket contents stayed dry despite the relentless downpour.
The large pocket was invaluable for storing my phone and keys, and it also features a waterproof zipper. Despite the additional weight it did not feel difficult to ride with the pocket loaded. The option to tuck your hands in behind the pocket was also helpful for when I wore the jacket off the bike.
The long back was great in keeping the top of my bottom half dry, and also warm on the days when it has been rainy and windy.
I also felt assured cycling in the dark thanks to the subtle but effective reflective elements on the front and back of the jacket.
Verdict
Until now whenever it rained I had been wearing my standard rain jacket and often ended up still being soggy. The Rover Anorak is therefore without doubt my new go-to cycling jacket for the rain. It is stylish, comfortable and incredibly practical both on and off the bike.
Unlike most of my other cycling clothing, my friends, family and colleagues have all complimented the jacket every time I wear it, including my sister who is so taken by it she is looking to get one!
Cleverhood’s range of affordable, colourful and high quality rainwear is the perfect solution to keep you warm, dry and visible when riding. On top of that, their generous support of community projects means more people than ever can spread the joy of cycling and benefit from safer streets.
