Summer riding in New Zealand doesn’t always mean blue skies and dry roads — and this season has been a perfect example. With unseasonably heavy rain and fast-changing conditions hitting many parts of the country, staying dry on a ride has become more about adaptability than layering up for winter.
That’s where this new packable waterproof overjacket from Leatt comes into its own.
Designed to be worn over your existing riding gear, the lightweight rain cover adds a high-performance waterproof layer when the weather turns, then packs away small when the sun reappears — ideal for summer trips where conditions can swing from dry to drenched in a single ride.
Serious waterproofing without summer bulk
Rather than being a heavy cold-weather jacket, this overjacket is built around Leatt’s HydraDri® EVO membrane, delivering a 20,000mm waterproof rating and 20,000g/m² breathability. That puts it in the top tier for weather protection, without the insulation that would make it uncomfortable in warmer conditions.
Fully taped seams and YKK AquaGuard zippers, backed by an additional storm flap, help keep water out during sustained rain — the kind of downpours riders have been encountering far more often than expected this summer. A rear exhaust vent allows heat and moisture to escape, helping manage airflow when the temperature rises once the rain clears.
Designed to work over your riding kit
This jacket isn’t meant to replace your favourite summer riding jacket — it’s designed to work with it. The cut allows it to slip easily over existing gear, while extra-large storm cuffs are shaped to fit over riding gloves, reducing the chance of water running down your arms and soaking layers underneath.
Access pockets let you reach items in your jacket below without removing the rain layer, a small detail that makes a big difference when you’re pulled over in heavy rain. Reflective detailing also boosts visibility in gloomy, low-light conditions — something many riders have faced during recent weather events.
Pack it, stash it, forget about it — until you need it
One of the overjacket’s biggest strengths is how easy it is to live with. When not in use, it packs down into its own dedicated compression bag, small enough to stash under a seat or in a tail pack. The bag can also fit Leatt’s matching rain pants, and includes an attachment loop for external storage on luggage or a backpack.
It’s the kind of gear you can carry every ride during a changeable summer, without feeling like you’re lugging around winter kit “just in case”.
A smart solution for unpredictable summer weather
With New Zealand’s summer proving far wetter and more unpredictable than usual, this packable waterproof overjacket offers a practical, rider-focused solution. It delivers serious waterproof performance only when you need it, then disappears when you don’t.
For commuters, weekend riders or anyone heading away on a summer trip where the forecast can’t be trusted, this latest Leatt overjacket makes a lot of sense — and might just save a ride from being cut short by the weather.
If you fancy a Leatt Adv Rain Cover Jacket, you can find them HERE (orange) / HERE (camo)
Key Features: LEATT ADV RAIN COVER JACKET
- HydraDri® EVO 20,000mm / 20,000g/m² waterproof & breathable membrane
- Fully taped seams and Suter pressure tested construction
- Extra-large storm cuffs designed to fit over riding gloves
- Packable into a dedicated compression bag
- Rear exhaust vent for moisture and heat management
- YKK AquaGuard zippers with storm flap
- Reflective detailing for low-light visibility
- Plastic-free packaging
