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The Alpkit Morphosis Hybrid Insulated women’s jacket is a great all year round coat that will keep you warm, won’t hamper any activity and is cut well to suit cycling. It’s not too expensive either and given the amount I have worn this jacket it’s an absolute bargain.

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I'm told Morphosis means change, evolution, and adaptation and Alpkit says it’s the perfect name for a jacket designed to be comfortable no matter your activity, temperature or effort level. I’d agree completely with the statement, I’ve worn this jacket throughout spring, summer, autumn and under a waterproof in winter where it has kept the chill off on cold days and provided enough protection on summer nights without being too heavy or bulky.

The jacket is a zip up windshell with gridded fleece liner inserted over the front, the rear, down the outside of the arms and throughout the hood. Under the arms and over the side panels are left fleece free for more ventilation from the 6CFM fabric which allows you to feel the wind flow through the material in strong winds or when moving quickly but deflects all else. The material is breathable, I found the jacket to be a great companion for the shoulder seasons, worn over a base layer, where some warmth is required but you’ll still be working hard. The material wicks away sweat and dried quickly too, great for bike packing adventures alongside its ability to be folded up pretty small and stuffed into bags unscathed.

The fit is a pretty slim cut but it’s easy enough to move around in, with the hem and sleeves being long enough to prevent either riding up. The full length zip is malleable and doesn’t fold up and stick out unnecessarily when in a seated riding position. When fully zipped up the neck is roomy whilst still protecting from drafts, there’s also enough room to wear a buff without feeling restricted. Unzipped partly does tend to allow the hood to flap around a little, a pull cord might solve this problem but this would be to the detriment of the lightweight and simple nature of the jacket. The hood has a nice stiffened peak which helps it sit securely on the head without a helmet on.

Other highlights are the stretchy cuffs which prevent drafts and the disguised zipped pockets which are roomy enough for a large smartphone although the pockets are only lined with pretty thin material and bulkier items weigh the fabric down. The jacket is available in both women’s and men’s sizes, plus men get the choice of a hoodless version for £3 less.

I really liked the Morphosis, the proof in the pudding has been the number of times I pick it up and head out the door. It’s served me well not just for riding but pre and post ride warmth, the early morning dog walks and as an extra layer under a waterproof now it’s gotten colder.

• www.alpkit.com

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