Test of the new Castelli Do.Di.Ci jacket

Castelli, a specialist in technical cycling clothing, has built its reputation on iconic models like the Gabba jacket, launched in 2013 and revolutionary for its balance between protection against the elements and breathability in wet conditions. Today, the Do.Di.Ci jacket – named after the Italian word twelve as twelve, in reference to its breathability multiplied by twelve compared to previous models – is a logical evolution within the Autumn/Winter 2025/2026 range. Positioned as a model that derives from the Gabba, it specifically targets intense outings in dry and cool conditions, freed from the waterproofing constraints that weigh down models like the Perfetto RoS 3 or the Alpha. We have already tested.

By Guillaume Judas – Photos: ©3bikes.fr

Within an already dense catalog, the Castelli Do.Di.Ci stands out for its focus on training undertaken in cool and windy conditions of this early autumn. Developed in partnership with Ittai, an innovator in the field of laminated membranes, it meets a growing demand from practitioners who exploit the Gabba outside its initial domain: sustained efforts without rain, typical of the conditions encountered in October and November or in March and April. Available in men's and women's versions, with a short-sleeved variant, it is aimed at enthusiasts of the route and gravel that refuse to compromise between warmth and perspiration wicking. Launched at the end of September 2025, it embodies the Castelli philosophy : prioritize engineering to save watts, without sacrificing sleek Italian aesthetics.

Ristretto, technology that breathes

At the heart of the Do.Di.Ci is Ristretto technology, a PFAS-free laminated fabric designed for controlled air permeability: 3 cubic feet per minute (about 85 liters), the highest in the Castelli range for 2025. Unlike Gore-Tex or Polartec membranes, which often top out at 0,7 cubic feet/min, Ristretto acts as a smart filter: it blocks 99% of the wind while allowing minimal airflow that draws sweat away from the skin's surface, promoting evaporation without excessive coolingThis engineering, the result of a collaboration with Ittai, is based on a highly stretchable multi-layer structure (elastane and recycled polyester) which offers elasticity in all four directions to provide an anatomical cut without constraint.

Construction-wise, the jacket adopts a very fitted cut : seams reduced to the bare minimum to minimize friction and weight (only 213 g in size S, compared to 80 to 100 g more for a long-sleeved thermal jersey). The asymmetrical collar rises high enough to prevent air intrusion. For the same reason, the zipper is doubled on its inner side.

The back pockets are well placed on the back, to maintain access to their contents without compromising aerodynamics. There is also a long reflective strip at the bottom of the pockets, for visibility. The DWR (water repellency)durable water repellent) is lightweight, prioritizing breathability over waterproofing – a deliberate choice for optimal usage temperatures of 8 to 15°C. In short, Do.Di.Ci is not an absolute protection against the harsh winter, but a catalyst : it transforms perspiration into advantagetage thermodynamics, and is ideal for outings at a sustained pace.

In terms of color, the Do.Di.Ci remains understated with four versions: black, red, purple and mocha, the latter three being much more cheerful when the days get darker. Note that, as is often the case with Castelli, the finish is very well made, which is still the minimum considering the high price of the product, at almost € 230.

A well-fitting cocoon for a dynamic autumn

TestTested over several outings under typical autumn conditions (10 to 15°C with an average but still present wind), the Do.Di.Ci revealed exemplary consistency with its technical sheetThe close-fitting fit is unforgiving: without a crease in the aerodynamic position, it hugs the torso like a second skin, eliminating any extraneous flapping that could dissipate precious watts. But beware of small excesses in the off-season: the jacket is much tighter than the latest Perfetto RoS 3, and could leave some bulges showing. If you have any doubts about the prominence of your Kronenbourg abs, you can easily opt for a size larger than usual. However, beyond the aesthetic aspect, the Do.Di.Ci offers fluid freedom of movement for changes of position on the bike, without excessive chest compression when the pace really accelerates and breathing with it.

Thermal comfort shines in its target window : between 10 and 15°C with a moderate wind chill, the Do.Di.Ci maintains a stable body temperature, wicking away moisture without chills. With a short-sleeved base layer (merino type), it feels like a lightweight long jersey. This is barely sufficient unless you plan to finish your ride in the midday sun; with a long-sleeved thermal base layer, the jacket is less comfortable on the arms, but proves to be totally adaptable to prolonged efforts without overheating. The rapid drying time – less than 20 minutes after a light shower – reinforces this versatility, making it ideal for changing microclimates.

However, the absence of impermeability is confirmed : DWR water repellency repels isolated drops, but sustained rain (test(10 minutes in a heavy downpour) impregnates the fabric on the surface, without deep penetration but with increasing discomfort. The high collar excels against headwinds, limiting infiltration – a saving grace on large, flat, exposed wheels. Overall, the Do.Di.Ci excels in cool but dry conditions, transforming intense rides into breathable and dynamic experiences.

Brilliant for the mid-season, perfectible for winter 

The Castelli Do.Di.Ci Jacket impresses with its surgical precision: very good breathability that releases autumnal intensities, a very tight cut and progressive adaptability depending on the underwear chosen which make it a pillar of equipment for autumn or mid-springWe appreciate its role in these weather windows where the cold bites without biting, allowing you to ride hard without a plethora of wardrobes. At €230, it justifies its high-end price with its racing cut and unbeatable weight, but suffers from its limited protection: below 10°C, it lacks insulating depth, and its lack of waterproofing makes it vulnerable to the vagaries of rainFor avid cyclists looking for a "spiritual" jacket for dry, brisk days, this is a masterstroke; for winter or when there's a risk of rain, the Perfetto is better.

=> All articles Tests