Martin is one of those clothing companies that just gets the needs of the cyclist. While many of the camps for functional spandex and space-age flotsam continue to break bank accounts and fall short with the all-important street sensibility, Martin is quietly sneaking in the backdoor with great products, exquisite cuts and a few head-smacking bits of ingenuity for the stylish rider. I recently acquired their "Wind Runner" jacket for the Southern California chill of fall and winter and I must admit I'm more than impressed. In a unique take on the windbreaker, Martin ditches all excess for a minimalist coated cotton that is windproof, waterproof and surprisingly versatile. Extra long sleeves? Check. Extra long tail to cover your "bacon strip"? Check. Slim cut? Check. Magnetic pockets? Interesting check. Side vents and shoulder flex fabrics? Check. Easily mistaken for a leather jacket? Double check. The one downfall might be that I have yet to discover a reason not to wear this jacket. Until then, I guess we'll just keep on riding.
