Check out the Gore® Windstopper® X-Fast fabric, the Perfetto/Gabba-like features and construction, the understated design- wait, understated design? From Castelli? Well, yes. The Senza 2 Jacket is wonderfully warm and wholly effective as a winter cycling jacket, but unlike so many of Castelli's pieces the Senza has a clean, non-flashy look, with just a few complementary logos and features that somewhat subtle. This is the winter cycling jacket for those who want the performance of the Gabba and Perfetto pieces with extra insulation, minus the sexy, if you will. And though many cyclists do opt for flash, pieces like the Senza 2 always sell well; so there you have it.

Of course lack of visual flash doesn't mean limited or stripped down. Windstopper X-Fast is a thermal softshell material that completely blocks air and wind flow, is seriously water repellent, breathable and features consistent 4-way stretch. Castelli's own Thermoflex fabric offers even more stretch and insulation on side panels to improve the overall fit without sacrificing thermal properties or regulation. Thermoflex also won't block water or wind, so this isn't full-on rain wear, but the Senza 2 is no slouch when the cold becomes the cold and wet.

The mildly sculpted, tall soft collar and extended waterproof rear flap are Gabba- inspired, as is the form-fitting design. YKK's Vislon zipper with an extended pull tab is a breeze to manage, even in the cold and wet, with gloves on, sliding smoothly and holding place. An internal draft flap protects the skin of the neck and chin. Though the fit is cut to the body, the stretch of the X-Fast, well augmented by the Thermoflex, makes for easy movement of the arms and shoulders, which can ideal on those freezing cyclocross training rides. The rear three pocket structure can easily swallow your extra gear and snacks, and reflective highlights on either side offer decent visibility when you need it. Castelli uses heat transfer logos: Scorpion on the left chest and center rear pocket, and Castelli script on the outside of each arm. That is all the flash you get. Good thing you get an excellent cold weather jacket that can handle all but the most rainy conditions with aplomb, with a suggested range from 32-50°F depending on your inner layers and effort level. Our take is that you can easily push closer to 20 degrees on a dry day with the right complementary gear- no problem.

If a clean aesthetic and great thermal performance are the features you require in a cold weather cycling jacket, we highly recommend the Senza 2. Stay warm, dry, and comfortable without calling attention to yourself. You know, other than riding a bike on a 30 degree winter day with snowbanks alongside to keep you focused.