By Ruth Ayers, 10 hours ago
For AW26, Madison has
overhauled it’s wet-weather range, introducing the Flux HydroShift Waterproof
Packable Jacket and extensive redesigns across the established DTE and Flux
collections.
Developed around
the unpredictable reality of riding throughout the colder months, the new
collection places a renewed emphasis on weather protection, breathability and
freedom of movement. Rather than designing solely for individual seasons,
Madison has focused on creating products capable of adapting to sudden
downpours, changing temperatures and sustained periods of poor weather.
Introducing
HydroShift
The headline
product for AW26 is the new Flux HydroShift Waterproof Packable Jacket, a
premium road jacket built around Madison’s new HydroShift waterproof
technology. Traditional waterproof jackets place a face fabric over the
waterproof membrane. Although this construction provides protection for the
membrane, the outer fabric can eventually absorb water, adding weight and
affecting comfort as conditions deteriorate.
HydroShift takes a
different approach. By removing the traditional face fabric, the jacket places
its ultra-hydrophobic microporous polyurethane membrane directly on the
outside. Rain beads on the surface and rolls away rather than saturating the
garment, helping the jacket remain consistently light and comfortable
throughout a ride.
Once the rain
stops, a quick shake removes much of the remaining surface water, allowing the
jacket to dry rapidly and be packed away without carrying unnecessary moisture.
At the centre of
the technology are billions of microscopic pores, small enough to prevent wind
and rain from entering but large enough to allow perspiration vapour to escape.
This is intended to provide consistent comfort during real-world riding, including
hard climbs, stop-start efforts and quickly changing weather.
The result is a
jacket designed to breathe at pace, protect in a downpour and dry quickly once the
rain stops. Priced at £199.99, the Flux HydroShift Waterproof Packable Jacket
will sit at the top of Madison’s road collection for AW26.
The Evolution of
DTE
DTE stands for
“Defy the Elements”, and the collection remains focused on Madison’s most
durable materials and comprehensive weather protection. These are products
developed for prolonged exposure to severe conditions, rather than lightweight
layers intended only for passing showers.
Turning from road to
MTB, Madison has extensively redesigned the DTE 3-Layer Waterproof Jacket and
DTE 3-Layer Waterproof Bib Trousers.
The biggest update
is that the outer fabric is now nylon, which adds significant durability and
toughness without compromising on weight. Both garments use fully waterproof
three-layer construction, supported by a fluorocarbon-free durable
water-repellent finish. A waterproof rating of 20,000mm and breathability
rating of 20,000g/m²/24 hours provide the foundation for sustained protection,
while stretch fabrics and articulated fits allow riders to move naturally on
the bike.
The updated DTE
jacket uses a relaxed but controlled fit, leaving room for layering without
feeling excessively loose on the bike. Stretch fabric, articulated shaping and
laser-cut ventilation help balance protection with mobility and breathability.
The hood has seen a major redesign
making it helmet compatible but using just a single drawcord can be cinched
down without a helmet. Elasticated cuffs, an adjustable
drawcord hem and a dropped rear hem help seal out spray and rain. Two hand
pockets and a secure zipped chest pocket provide practical storage away from
the bike.
The accompanying
DTE waterproof bib trousers offer the same 20,000mm waterproof and
20,000g/m²/24-hour breathable construction. A waterproof bib section extends
protection above the waist, with adjustable straps helping riders refine the
fit and an integrated pocket adding useful storage.
Articulated knees
and stretch fabric provide unrestricted movement on the bike, while the fit has
been developed to remain compatible with knee pads. Secure zipped thigh pockets
add practical storage, and elasticated cuffs create a close fit around footwear
to help keep out water and trail debris. Together, the jacket and bib trousers
form Madison’s most protective combination for riders heading out into
sustained rain, winter spray and difficult trail conditions.
Keeping Flux Light
For riders who
prioritise low weight and easy packability, Madison has completely redesigned
the Flux 3-Layer Waterproof Smock Trail Jacket. Flux is Madison’s fast and
light mountain bike collection, using lightweight materials to support freedom
of movement and breathability. The smock introduces a new three-layer
waterproof construction, delivering a 20,000mm waterproof rating alongside breathability
of 20,000g/m²/24 hours.
The relaxed fit
leaves space for movement and layering without becoming baggy, while stretch
fabric and articulated shaping allow the jacket to follow the rider’s position
on the bike.
Like DTE, the Flux
smock has an adjustable helmet-compatible hood, elasticated cuffs, dropped rear
hem and adjustable drawcord help prevent water from entering as conditions
worsen. Two hand pockets and a secure zipped chest pocket complete a practical
design intended to offer full waterproof protection in a lighter, more packable
format than DTE.
Packable Warmth
Completing the key
AW26 product announcements is the new DTE Packable PrimaLoft Thermal Jacket,
created to provide low-bulk insulation before, during and after a ride. The
jacket uses PrimaLoft insulation made with recycled content, delivering warmth
that continues to perform when wet. This is combined with brushed Isoler
thermal Roubaix fabric to provide additional comfort in cold conditions without
creating excessive weight or bulk.
A fluorocarbon-free
DWR finish helps repel light moisture, while the wind-resistant construction
offers protection on exposed trails and during colder descents.
Stretch panels and
a relaxed but non-baggy fit allow the jacket to move naturally, with
elasticated cuffs and hem helping retain warmth. A silicone hem gripper holds
the garment in position, while a dropped rear hem adds coverage in the riding
position. Two hand pockets and a secure zipped chest pocket provide storage on
and off the bike.
The new Madison AW26
range is available on www.madison.cc or you nearest
Madison Clothing Stockist.