Quick Look: Mavic HC H2O Jacket
We take a quick look a new waterproof, breathable rain shell from Mavic
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Mavic labeled their latest HC H2O Jacket as a “technical, extreme wet rain jacket,” and its technical features seem to back up the marketing hype. The HC H2O is constructed of breathable Cocona Xcelerator fabric; the company also uses the material in their mountain bike-inspired Stratos H2O Jacket (which features a hood and looser fit, but is otherwise very similar).
On top of the inherent breathability of the Cocona fabric, ventilation is top notch. Fully-sealed zippers close off the underarm and wrist “Clima Vents,” and all seams are taped for improved water resistance. The “XL Vent,” a secondary zipped vent that opens a mesh panel behind the main zipper without unzipping the whole jacket, adds the most ventilation. Paired with a rear mesh panel that channels air through outlets above the rear pocket flap, the HC H20 breathes incredibly well should rain cease or temperatures rise.
Mavic provides ample storage with a waterproof, zippered chest pocket and a rear zippered pocket with mesh dividers, and the jacket itself folds up small enough to stuff into an empty jersey pocket.
The HC H2O has a great look to it. Our sample was mainly black with red and white sleeves, and Mavic also offers a simple red.
Sizing of the jacket is a bit odd — it runs larger than most Mavic gear. The tag bears three different sizing labels; Japan, International, and UK/USA. We found that the International sizing fits more like what we are accustomed to from both Mavic and other manufacturers.
At $325 the HC H2O is reserved for the rider who plans to get stuck in nasty conditions — fair-weather riders need not apply. We have only a few rides in the HCH20 so far, but will be putting Mavic’s best to the test in the rain and wind of our Colorado spring, so be sure to check back for our full review.
