Castelli Perfetto ROS III with Polartec® AirCore™

With the Perfetto RoS 3 Jacket, Castelli introduces a completely redesigned version of its popular all-weather jacket, using for the first time the new AirCore™ material developed in collaboration with Polartec. The focus is on a balanced relationship between breathability and weather protection, tailored to the changing behavior of cyclists.

Even rain is no longer what it used to be. What used to result in hours of constant rain during autumn training rides has now become mostly brief but all the more intense downpours. And even those are avoided by many, as uncertain weather conditions increasingly lead to opting for indoor training or scheduling rides during favorable conditions thanks to remote work flexibility.

Against this backdrop, breathability becomes the decisive criterion. It's no longer just about whether a jacket is waterproof but rather how well it manages moisture from the inside. A light level of rain protection is sufficient in most cases, as long as the body doesn't cool down and stays as dry as possible. With the new Perfetto RoS 3 Jacket*, Castelli specifically responds to this changing user behavior and introduces a jacket that combines breathability and weather protection in the best possible way.

* Perfetto (Italian for "perfect") RoS (Rain or Shine) 3 Jacket

Compared to the Perfetto Air Jacket, which is even more focused on maximum breathability, the new Perfetto RoS 3 Jacket offers greater weather protection.

Castelli Perfetto Jackets

The Perfetto Air is primarily aimed at riders who are active under high exertion in cool but dry weather. The Perfetto RoS 3, on the other hand, is ideal for cool and wet conditions, longer tours, or daily commutes. It is not designed for prolonged heavy rain, nor for high summer temperatures.

Anyone who regularly sits in the saddle knows: being soaked in sweat on the inside is at least as unpleasant as being drenched from the outside. This is exactly where the AirCore membrane shows its strength. It ensures noticeable breathability and a dry body feeling – even when things get challenging.

The jacket was tested since spring at temperatures between 8 and 20 degrees Celsius. Despite these relatively warm conditions for a weather protection piece, the Perfetto RoS 3 impressed with consistent performance. It was hardly necessary to open or close the jacket, which confirms its high moisture management. The side zippers additionally contributed to good ventilation.

Compared to the Perfetto RoS 2, the fit is slightly tighter, but thanks to the high stretch content, it is more comfortable and movement-friendly. The size selection remains unchanged.

In practice, what the lab data suggests is confirmed. The jacket allows targeted air exchange, which efficiently wicks sweat away from the body without compromising wind protection. This creates a consistently dry and balanced body feeling, especially on longer or more intense rides, regardless of the chosen pace.

Despite its low weight, the jacket reliably protects against short rain showers. Classified as functionally waterproof, only the shoulders are taped. This is exactly the area most affected by precipitation in the riding position. For typical Central European weather conditions, this level of protection should generally suffice. Under continuous or heavy rainfall, a decrease in protective effectiveness is to be expected.

The usable temperature range is broad. In combination with a base layer, the jacket is suitable for rides between 4 and 14 degrees Celsius. When an additional mid-layer is worn, it can also be used in temperatures close to 0 degrees.

Functional details such as reflective elements on the shoulders and pockets, drainage openings in the back pockets, and an extended back section for protection against splashes underscore the well-thought-out overall design. Another advantage is its easy care. The jacket can be washed effortlessly after each intense use without compromising its functionality.

With the Perfetto RoS 3, Castelli introduces a modern weather protection jacket that is tailored to the actual demands of cycling. The new AirCore technology enables noticeable advancements in breathability and comfort without compromising the necessary weather protection. Especially for sport-oriented cyclists who ride in variable conditions between 0 and 14 degrees, the jacket offers a well-thought-out and versatile solution.

Compared to the Perfetto Air, the RoS 3 offers significantly more weather protection, even though it is slightly less ventilated. At the same time, it is three times more breathable than the legendary Gabba and provides noticeably more stretch. Those looking for a balanced compromise of comfort, protection, and sustainability will make a safe choice with this model.