Oxford Sterling Dry2Dry™ Waterproof Wax Cotton Jacket - Khaki

When, after 7 years of sterling service, my Merlin Kurkbury waterproof lining failed in both sleeves, I was left hunting for a replacement “Trial Master” style jacket. I’m 6’1” so appreciate a longer, 3/4 length jacket for the daily commute, and the four front pockets are a vital part of my keeping track of all the bits you need to carry to ride year round.

Merlin seem to have moved away from the longer style jacket, leaving me initially thinking that Belstaff, and the associated RRP, was my only option. You can imagine my relief when I spotted the Oxford version.

Points so far, after a month of riding… the Dry-2-Dry waterproofing works, the gilet liner is effective, and the pocket layout and jacket length are all exactly what I needed. The armour pockets are good, I’ve added the back protector from my binned Merlin, and the integrated belt system is less faff than an actual belt.

The jacket has a reassuring weight to it. It arrives very stiff, but breaks in quickly, and the design of the front zip area, with additional rain “gutter” seems better than previous jackets I’ve owned.

There are only two points so far that could be improved, and may well be expected at this price point. The collar strap is not adjustable, which doesn’t impact me as I ride with a buff/neck tube thing, but could be improved in version 2. And the poppers are quiet. Don’t get me wrong they shut, and stay shut, but I’m accustomed to a “snap” when using this kind of fastening, so I find myself checking that they have in fact closed.

I’ve never owned a belstaff, so can’t compare this product to their trial master, but for the price this seems to be 90% of my Merlin for 60% of the cost. Time will tell in terms of longevity. I have pots of wax dressing that I used to use annually on the Merlin, so the Oxford will get the same care.

I have the brown version, which was on a promotion at £199, so I’m very happy with the jacket thus far, and will be giving it a good test in the years to come. Oxford seem to be on a bit of a roll for those of us biking on a budget, so I’m happy to recommend this jacket.

not tried it in the rain yet, but nothing much to dislike ..id say its as good as the Merlin equivalent

False pockets at top

This jacket a very well made and very warm. Looks really smart both on and off the bike.
Arrives next day from SBS. 1st class service as usual.