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POC Men’s Coalesce Jacket review

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Liam Mercer's picture

Liam Mercer

Since beginning his mountain biking career while working as a resort photographer in Greece in 2014, Liam became a freelance contributor at off.road.cc in 2019. From there, he’s climbed the journalism job ladder from staff writer to deputy technical editor, now finding his place as technical editor.

Partial to the odd enduro race, heart rate-raising efforts on slim-tyred cross-country bikes, hell-for-leather e-MTB blasts or even casual gravel jaunts, there’s not a corner of off-road cycling where Liam fears to tread. With more than 40 bike reviews under his belt and hundreds more on MTB, e-MTB and gravel parts and accessories, Liam’s expertise continues to be cemented and respected by the industry.

Product reviews

With POC’s roots in snowsports, it’s no surprise that an insulated jacket is featured in its lineup. Bordering both cycling and snowsports, its casual styling and cut may not make it a bike-packing must-have, but it’s become a mainstay pre and post-ride and is perfect for any outdoor adventures worn as an outer or mid-layer.

 

POC Coalesce Jacket - Technical details

With a fluorocarbon-free DWR treatment, the lightweight ripstop fabric outer is engineered to brush off light showers and handle snagging, the polyamide taffeta lining feels silky smooth to the touch for deep comfort levels.

2024 Men’s Coalesce Jacket back.jpg
2024 Men’s Coalesce Jacket back.jpg, by Liam Mercer


The recycled synthetic T-core circular fill insulation is housed in slim horizontal channels and, although there’s no specific weight stated, it feels substantial enough to be worn on its own or as part of a layering system.

The slim-fitting silhouette hugs the body and sits long with an adjustable elasticated drawcord hem at the waist to seal out the elements.  Hidden cuffs add a layer of comfort and protection, and the snug-fitting hood is in excellent shape. There are two deep pockets to keep your hands warm, which feature cord zip pulls with a rubberised coating. There's a small inner pocket that will hold a phone or keys and, should it get wet, a small loop at the back can be used to hang it up. 

It's available in sizes S to XXL in a range of colours.

POC Coalesce Jacket - Performance

The Coalesce and I have become fast friends, and I’ll admit I’ve been living in it since it arrived. With an excellent figure-hugging fit, the extra length provides a little extra warmth and protection, with the waist cinched in and hood up, the elements have had a job on their hands getting to me. I love the hidden elasticated cuffs. They seal out the cold and wind but also provide plush levels of comfort. The zip pulls are easy to locate and use, even when wearing gloves, and you can stash a lot in those pockets.

2024 Men’s Coalesce Jacket  inside.jpg
2024 Men’s Coalesce Jacket inside.jpg, by Liam Mercer


The Coalesce has been a real godsend at trail centres. Worn pre-ride as an outer to keep me toasty and warm as I set up my bike and it’s something I look forward to slipping into as the inevitable post-ride chat begins.

2024 Men’s Coalesce Jacket hood.jpg
2024 Men’s Coalesce Jacket hood.jpg, by Liam Mercer


I have ridden in it a few times, and with the waist cinched in, it fits snuggly with a surprising range of movement and keeps off the windchill. But I’ll admit, the thought of tearing the material was enough to fear for its longevity – especially as I have a knack for snagging up kit. The DWR coating does make wiping it down when muddy a doddle rather than a drama.

POC Coalesce Jacket - Verdict

If you’re after a more cycle-specific insulated jacket, consider looking at the Troy Lee Designs Crestline Jacket (£140) or the Leatt MTB Trail 3.0 Insulated Jacket.  Neither will keep you warm off the bike nor look as good down the pub.

It’s expensive but on par with many leading insulated jacket brands. It doesn’t pack down small enough for bike-packing but is, without a doubt, a cracking jacket. It’s become an essential piece of kit, worn pre and post-ride and for more casual duties, and it will keep you very, very warm.

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