As mentioned above, the jacket comes with the standard three pockets at the back, with the middle one having an extra zipped compartment on the outside. Zipped pockets are always a welcome addition to a jacket, but this one’s a bit difficult to use when you have the jacket on. There is another zipped pocket on the left side of the chest, which is far more useable.

Another small touch is on the inside where there’s a loop on the right shoulder to guide a headphone cable, but with this being the only one there’s no easy way to guide it accurately down to the pockets.

The elasticated cuffs do an excellent job stopping any colder air encroaching up the sleeves and the non-slip silicone hem does a similar job. Those finishing touches continue with the ‘zip garage’ – a small piece of material covering the zip when the jacket is done all the way up that stops it rubbing on the neck. It’s a small but important feature and one that makes a real difference in comfort.

And that lack of draft along with the brushed lining of the jacket helps to keep the rider really warm. Early morning rides when the temperature hasn’t risen above single figures have been fine, and that’s aided by the snug fit.

The only minor gripe I have – and it’s a personal one, really – is with the sizing. Normally, I’m on the edge between medium and large for upper body bike wear, but the Italian manufacturer of the PixElite has followed traditional Euro sizing which means you should think about sizing up if you want a big of wriggle room in a piece which otherwise has a snug, racy cut. Obviously, if you try before you buy this wont be a problem.

Conclusion

With the PixElite, Proviz have created a jacket that makes me feel a lot safer than usual when out on early morning rides. The slightest light is reflected by the jacket and the inclusion of the PixElite fabric along the entire length of the arms means that turn signals can be seen by any following motorists. That, combined with its warmth, mean the Proviz PixElite could well become one of my ‘go-to’ winter jackets.

Pros

– Highly reflective
– Warm and draft-free

Cons

– Watch out for Italian sizing
– Difficult zippered rear pocket