Review: Vulpine Men’s Regents Mac

Off the bike, cycling jackets can look sportily, garishly out of place. And on or off it, they stop at the waist, exposing your lap to falling rain and to rivulets running off the jacket (unless you wear boil-in-the-bag over-trousers).

Vulpine’s Regents Mac is styled like a traditional mac. It solves both issues, reaching to the upper thigh and looking smart enough over a suit or casual clothing. While you could use any mac or overcoat for urban commuting, this one incorporates some cycling-friendly features.

It’s cut long enough in the arms. Not only is it very waterproof, with a 20,000mm hydrostatic head rating, it’s also breathable (15,000g/m2/24h). Additionally, there’s a large vent across the shoulders and small ones under the arms. The mac’s two-way zip can also help prevent overheating.

There are discreet (in daylight) reflective tabs at the cuffs and under the raised collar. I’d have liked a button under one of the lapels and a subtle button hole opposite. You could then fasten the raised collar while cycling to keep the chill off your neck without needing a scarf.

There are four pockets: two front and one rear on the outside, all decently sized and closed with magnetic flaps; and one zipped inner pocket. This was big enough for my iPhone 13 Mini but will be too small for large phones.

The mac has a two-way zip behind a flap with buttons. You can use either or both. The zip was awkward to engage, especially to begin with. As I never needed to undo it from the bottom, I’d have preferred an ordinary, single pull-tag zip.

Verdict

It costs at least double what I’d normally pay for coat but the Regents Mac could replace two: a commuter jacket and an everyday coat for work or going out. While it would benefit from some minor refinements, during the test period it became my default on- and off-bike option around town.

Other options

Btwin Unisex City Cycling Parka £69.99

Longer than the Vulpine mac and more waterproof (25k), this parka isn’t breathable. Sizes XS-XXL, in ochre, khaki or blue.

Agu Mac Winter Rain Jacket Urban Outdoor Men £155

Waterproof (20k) and breathable, Agu’s insulated mac also has a detachable hood. Sizes S-XXL, black only. Women’s equivalent is the City Slicker Winter Rain Jacket Urban Outdoor (£172.50).

Looking for the women’s version of this jacket? Read our review.

First published in Cycle magazine, December 25/January 26 issue. All information correct at time of publishing.