Review: Pearl Izumi P.R.O Aero jacket
02. Dec, 2010 
8 Comments
Pearl Izumi P.R.O Aero
World travel, sassy podium girls, the Pearl Izumi P.R.O. Aero jacket. Three reasons to envy the life of a pro cyclist.
The first thing that strikes you about the Aero is the hand, the feel of the fabric. It’s surprisingly soft and supple like Giorgio Armani was moonlighting on technical wear. Yet there’s a smooth sheen that promises a strong barrier against wind and rain. No wonder Pearl calls it Softshell Lite.
In fact, well-designed deception is part of the Aero’s benefit package. The fabric looks tight and contoured yet stretches easily in all directions. Freaky cool. This is pro-level gear that vents quickly, breathes well and screams major R&D dollars.
Aero, no audio. Another advantage of the soft fabric and anatomical fit was the noise reduction. There’s almost zero flap on a fast descent — all you hear is rushing wind and drivetrain. You’re cutting wind, not causing a public disturbance.
We found the Aero hit that difficult sweet spot between heavier rain gear and flimsy wind breakers. Yet it’s so lightweight it stashes in a jersey pocket without a bulge.
Details, details. At the pro level, you see where Pearl Izumi spent the money. A full length draft flap and little zipper housing to seal in warmth. A tapered wrist and neck collar for that extra measure of coverage. As aero-light as the jacket is, the construction says long term integrity.
We worked out the Aero jacket with several combinations of base layer and was consistently impressed. Local conditions have been misty with light rain and coastal wind and we’ve enjoyed the rides.
The P.R.O. Aero is a wise choice for that one go-to jacket that handles wind and rain and scores major style points in the process. Podium girls appreciate that.
$125
