Albion Zoa Mountain Jacket – Performance Meets Everyday Usability
A few weeks ago, we took a deep dive into a new saddle system. Today, we’re switching gears completely: For the first time on this blog, we’re looking at a piece of clothing – something that could become an essential part of almost every cyclist’s wardrobe.
For a long time, I avoided writing about cycling apparel. Why? I wasn’t sure myself what I considered truly important, practical – or even aesthetically pleasing – when it came to bike clothing. Since this is my first review of something you wear on your body rather than on the bike itself, I want to briefly explain what I value in apparel.
At the core, it’s the same as with bike components: the gear has to work well within its category, be repairable, and ideally be produced as sustainably as possible. What’s different with clothing, though, is that ideally, it should work both on and off the bike. Of course, I won’t wear bib shorts to the office – but there are definitely garments that can do both: perform on the bike and look appropriate in everyday life.
And that’s something I care about: Cycling apparel is expensive. So why own something that only works in one specific setting? That’s exactly the question I’ll explore in this post – through the lens of one very specific piece of gear that tries to bridge that gap.
About Albion and the Zoa Jacket
Let’s talk about the jacket – not just any jacket, but the insulated Zoa Mountain Jacket from Albion.
If you’re into bikepacking or ultra-distance riding, chances are you’ve already heard of Albion. Founded in 2016 in London, their mission is to create highly functional, weatherproof cycling apparel specifically designed for the needs of real riders. It’s not just about performance – Albion also focuses on durability, repairability, and reducing environmental impact.
Like Tailfin, Albion collaborates with some of the sport’s top athletes, including Justinas Leveika, who won both the 2024 Tour Divide and Arizona Trail Race. Products that perform in such extreme conditions are more than enough for me. :)
Full disclosure: This jacket was sent to me free of charge by Albion after I reached out to them.
Technical Details
Model Albion Zoa Mountain Jacket (Shale Green)
Use case Bikepacking, winter training, commuting, off-bike
Insulation Primaloft® Gold Eco – 100 g/m², made from 100% recycled fibers
Shell Pertex® Shield Air – 3-layer, waterproof, breathable, PFC-free Features Two-way front zip, large zippered side pockets, inner chest pocket, helmet-compatible hood, reflective details, drop tail, adjustable cuffs and hem
Weight ~365 g (size M)
Temperature range Down to around -15 °C (depending on layering and activity)
Price £240 (as of April 2025) Colors Shale Green (tested), Lichen (olive), Charcoal (dark grey)
Care Machine wash at 30 °C, with compatible garmant wash (Nikwax Tech Wash for example)
Why Buy an Insulated Cycling Jacket?
A fair question: Why buy a purpose-made insulated cycling jacket when you probably already own a warm winter coat?
I used to think the same. My old favorite jacket – a down-filled puffer I’ve had for over 15 years – got me through countless winters, sometimes even on the bike. But here’s the problem: washing down jackets is a hassle. You need special detergent, delicate cycles, and several hours of tumble drying with tennis balls to restore loft.
And most traditional winter jackets simply aren’t designed for cycling: they’re bulky, cut too short in the back, or barely breathable. So eventually, I started asking myself: Why not get something that’s meant to work both on and off the bike?
Whether the Albion Zoa actually delivers on that promise – and how easy it is to care for – is something we’ll explore below.
First Rides & Temperature Performance
I received the jacket fairly early in the season, which gave me the chance to test it in a wide range of conditions – from -8 °C up to nearly 20 °C and sunny. Most interesting were the rides in sub-zero temps around -3 to -5 °C – seriously chilly territory.
I started out wearing my usual combo: merino base layer and jersey under the jacket. And to my surprise, I wasn’t cold for a second – quite the opposite. I got warm fast, almost too warm – which, in winter riding, can be more uncomfortable than being cold.
So I ditched the jersey, cracked open the bottom of the jacket a bit – and suddenly everything clicked. No wind chill, no drafts, just a cozy, balanced warmth. On later rides, I realized that with temps from -8 °C to +10 °C, a thin merino base layer or even just a technical tee was totally sufficient.
What I’ve grown to appreciate most: the two-way front zipper. On climbs, I unzip from the bottom to vent without exposing my chest to the wind. On descents, I zip up and the jacket seals tight. It sounds simple, but it makes a huge difference in winter.
A clever detail is what I’ll call the “helmet hood mode”: you can route your helmet straps through small cutouts in the hood. That way, the hood sits underneath the helmet but still over your ears – basically replacing a cap in freezing temps. Downsides? You sweat straight into the hood, which can get damp. Still, for long, cold rides, it’s a useful option.
Also great: the jacket doesn’t puff up or restrict movement on the bike. The fit is close but not tight, and the extended tail keeps your lower back protected in a forward riding position.
Weather Protection & Breathability
The outer fabric – Pertex Shield Air – really surprised me. It’s noticeably more breathable than most hardshells or winter jackets I’ve worn. Even during steep climbs with a backpack or during my morning commute, it doesn’t instantly get clammy inside.
At the same time, it offers solid protection: light rain and drizzle won’t be an issue. Sure, it’s no substitute for a full-on rain jacket, but for the mixed conditions you often get in bikepacking or day-to-day commuting, it’s more than enough.
Another plus: the PFC-free DWR coating is easy to refresh with products like Nikwax or Grangers – good for longevity and sustainability.
Build Quality & Details
What I love about Albion is their attention to detail. This jacket is beautifully made: no loose threads, clean seams, zippers glide smoothly, and the lining feels comfortable even against bare skin.
The side pockets are generously sized and easy to access, even with gloves on. The minimalist zipper design keeps the jacket looking clean and understated.
The helmet-compatible hood adjusts easily – no fiddling with tiny cords. Even after months of use and a few washes, the jacket looks brand new. That’s exactly what you want from high-end gear.
A nice bonus: the jacket packs into its own rear pocket. I don’t use this much (I just stuff it into the hood), but it’s a well-executed feature that’s there if you need it.
Fit & Sizing
I’m 183 cm tall and weigh around 90 kg. The jacket in size L fits me really well – it’s comfortably snug without feeling tight and leaves enough room for an extra layer underneath. The cut is athletic but not restrictive. If you’re between sizes or have broader shoulders, I’d recommend sizing up. Especially with an insulated jacket, it makes sense to allow for a bit of extra room – particularly if you’re planning to layer up in colder weather.
Style & Everyday Use
Let’s be honest – high-vis bike clothing makes sense from a safety perspective. But it rarely looks good off the bike. No one wants to show up at a café in neon lycra with loud logos all over.
This is where the Zoa Jacket stands out. It’s subtle by design: no flash, no branding overload, no racing aesthetic. Albion chose muted, natural tones like Shale Green, paired with a clean silhouette that blends right into everyday life.
One example: many cycling jackets have a dramatically dropped tail that looks awkward when you're off the bike. Albion strikes a great balance here – the extended back gives you protection while riding but doesn’t look out of place when you’re grabbing a coffee.
And if visibility is a concern: the jacket includes low-key reflective details that shine at night without drawing attention during the day. To me, that’s the perfect compromise between safety and style.
Sustainability & Repairability
One of Albion’s strengths is their focus on long-term use and repair. They not only offer a lifetime repair service but also sell DIY repair kits for small fixes – reasonably priced at £6. That’s a great step toward reducing waste, especially for high-quality outdoor gear.
That said, I do have one mixed feeling: like many brands, Albion doesn’t manufacture in Europe. The jacket has to be shipped halfway across the world before it gets to you. I understand the economic reasoning – European production with fair wages would make this jacket significantly more expensive. Still, I’d love to see Albion move in that direction eventually.
On a positive note: the outer fabric is made from Pertex NetPlus®, which uses recycled fishing nets. It’s 100% post-consumer recycled and fully traceable – a great example of combining performance, durability, and environmental responsibility.
Care & Maintenance
Let’s talk care – because if you’re sweating in this jacket, you’ll want it clean and fresh. This is where synthetic insulation shines.
I wash the Zoa Jacket with Nikwax Techwash using my machine’s gentle cycle – 30 minutes, low temp. Then I hang it up on the balcony, and two hours later it’s bone dry and ready to go. No clumping, no shaking down feathers into place – just easy, straightforward maintenance.
Areas for Improvement
Even though the Zoa impressed me in many ways, there’s always room for refinement. Here are a few areas where I see potential:
Ventilation: While the breathability is great, I still would’ve loved to see additional vents – underarm zips, for instance – for longer, more intense rides. Discreet pit zips could boost airflow without compromising the look.
Warmth: I tend to run hot – I’ve slept in a tent at 5–6 °C without a sleeping bag. For me, the jacket is almost too warm during intense efforts around freezing temps. Others may feel differently, but you should definitely adjust your layering based on your personal needs.
Price: At around £295, the Zoa sits at the higher end of the market. That said, it’s not unusual compared to similar high-end offerings – for example, the Rapha Explore Down Jacket retails for €340, and the Assos x Mammut Aenergy IN Hooded Jacket goes for €349. Still, it’s a significant investment. For many riders, that price point will be a real hurdle. At the same time, it reflects the jacket’s high-quality construction, thoughtful design, and sustainable materials. Ideally, I’d love to see Albion offer a slightly more affordable version in the future – or find production efficiencies to bring the price down over time.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
Excellent warmth for cold rides
High-quality materials and craftsmanship
Two-way zip for versatile venting
Great fit and freedom of movement
Low-key, everyday-friendly design
PFC-free DWR coating & repairable
Practical features: helmet hood, stash pocket
Cons:
High price point
No underarm vents
May be too warm for some in mild conditions
Not made in Europe
Verdict
The Albion Zoa Mountain Jacket is a thoughtfully designed, high-performance piece for anyone who rides in cold weather – whether that’s commuting, winter training, or long-distance bikepacking.
It offers a rare mix of warmth, weather protection, comfort, and urban-friendly aesthetics. The materials are premium, the design well-considered, and it performs brilliantly both on and off the bike.
Sure, it’s a premium investment, and it could use a bit more ventilation – but overall, this is a jacket made for people who value quality and expect their gear to last.
If you’re looking for something that works just as well on a snowy ride as it does on a spring coffee stop, the Albion Zoa is an easy recommendation.
