The best jackets for gravel riding and bikepacking often overlap with the best MTB jackets, with maybe more emphasis on packability, and less need for crashability. The main things we are looking for are comfort in all seasons, and ideally, something you can leave on and forget about through changes in weather and effort.
In terms of fit, we want the jacket to have more space for layers and movement than road jackets, but still be at the more streamlined end of things. We want long enough rear hems and sleeves for when you’re stretched out; and hoods are high on the list for all-day forays into the wild.
