The Refuge and Elite Jackets are among our best-selling rain jackets here at Showers Pass, but which one of these waterproof jackets is best for you? In this article, we’ll look at the similarities and differences between these two high-performance waterproof jackets, including materials, features, fit and intended use.
Design/Fit
Elite jackets are our flagship cycling jackets. Elite Jackets feature our signature cycling cut and are designed to fit a body on a bicycle. A short front prevents bunching or billowing, and a long tail and generous sleeve length ensure coverage from the elements. The armhole opening is oriented slightly forward, further reducing binding or bunching in a cycling position.
The Refuge Jacket is our premium outdoor jacket. It features our “regular” cut with slight body shaping, providing freedom of movement and an athletic silhouette. 
Both jackets are designed to be roomy enough to accommodate a mid-layer worn underneath.
Materials
Both Refuge and Elite styles feature our top-of-the-line waterproof-breathable membrane, paired with a double-line ripstop nylon that balances durability and weight. The premium materials aren’t just limited to the fabrics, as these styles also feature 360 degrees of 3M reflective trims, premium, soft-touch, hook and loop closure at the cuffs.
Pockets
The Elite Jacket features a standard cycling jacket pocket layout, with one chest pocket and one large back pocket on the lower back that’s perfect for gloves, or other accessories.
The Refuge Jacket features a chest pocket, and two hand pockets on the front. The Men’s Refuge Jacket also features an additional back pocket.
Venting
The Refuge jacket features two extra-long core vents on the front, so you can dump heat when things get steamy.
The Elite Jacket features two large core vents that can also provide access to jersey pockets. It also features a large back vent, which works with the front-facing core vents to provide flow-through ventilation. It’s the breezier of the two jackets, particularly on a bike.
Both jackets feature large adjustable cuffs, which can provide additional airflow when opened.
Hood
The Refuge Jacket comes with a detachable hood. The hood is attached to the back of the collar with a zipper and to the front of the collar with hidden velcro tabs.
Elite Jackets are not sold with a hood but are compatible with our accessory hoods, sold separately. The hoods attach with velcro tabs at the front and back of the collar.
Additional Features
The Refuge Jacket features a drop-down tail for added splash coverage and protection from wet seating. The tail stows away with low-profile magnets, so you won’t even notice it’s there when it’s not in use.
The Refuge Jacket also features abrasion-resistant overlays on the shoulders. This feature helps reduce friction from backpack straps, one of the most common locations where a jacket may fail due to normal wear and tear.
Who are they for?
The Refuge Jacket is for the outdoor enthusiast who prioritizes quality gear that is as versatile and capable as they are. They might spend their weekends hiking, bird watching, snowshoeing or otherwise exploring the outdoors and their weekdays commuting to work or class by bike or public transit, often with a backpack. They like knowing they’re prepared for anything and probably put every available topping on their ice cream sundae.The Elite jacket is the go-to for cyclists who want a jacket that can go the distance with them. Their Saturday is likely to be spent enjoying a scenic road ride or planning their next bike touring trip. During the week you might find them commuting to work on their bike, possibly even taking the long way home to build fitness or just because they enjoy the ride! They value the benefits of having the right tool for the job, whether that's literal tools or n+1 bikes in their garage.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for ultimate performance in a cycling jacket, the Elite jackets are the clear choice due to lighter weight, greater ventilation, and unmatched on-the-bike fit.
If you’re looking for one jacket that can do it all but still has Showers Pass’s cycling heritage in its DNA, the Refuge Jacket’s versatile cut and features make it a worthy companion.
