The Campagnolo Heritage Gironde Windproof Thermo 50/50 Jacket has proved a fine companion through the recent cold snap – and the clue to its success is in the name. In short, the 50/50 tag refers to the jacket’s windproof front and breathable back.

The front, top of the arms, neck and shoulders are made from Campagnolo’s Thermo Textran material, which is both windproof and water repellent, while the inside of the jacket has a thin, soft fleecy lining.

Windproof jackets are designed to keep chilly winter air at bay but that protection can come at a price, with the rider sometimes overheating and often left drenched in sweat beneath, particularly when riding hard. Campagnolo’s jacket, however, allows moisture to escape thanks to the Lycra back.

That fabric combination means this piece actually sits somewhere between a jacket and a jersey. It’s plenty warm enough to combine with a good base layer and lightweight mid layer – and you’ll need some seriously cold weather to require much else – or just go with a base layer beneath on ‘regular’ winter days. The full length zip leaves the option for a little mid-ride air con if the pace picks up.

Anyway, three deep pockets at the rear provide plenty of storage for winter essentials, while the chunky zip is easy to open while wearing gloves, with a chinguard to stop the zip scratching your face. A silicon gripper holds the jersey in place at the back, with a reflective hem to improve low light visibility.

The state-of-the-art fabrics contrast with the jacket’s retro look, which is reflected across the whole of Campagnolo’s heritage clothing range. Six sizes are available (s-xxxl) and the fit is accurate, with a medium just right for this tester. There are also three colours to choose from; the red/black/white pictured, as well as black/grey and blue/red/white.