The first version of the Assos intermediate jacket trail blazed a path that many manufacturers have tried in vain to imitate. Now the next generation Assos iJ.intermediate_s7 Jacket will make any sort of imitators completely inadequate when the nip in the air calls for some careful reinforcing of your riding wardrobe. It is hard to imagine that there was much to improve on the old intermediate, but Assos has applied some of their newly developed materials, and refashioned them to perfect that which was already at the apogee. The main difference is now the iJ.intermediate_s7 uses the Assos developed stratagonUltra airBlock fabric on the front panel. The stratagonUltra is one of the intelligent fabrics that Assos has been hard at work developing, which boasts an active membrane construction. It has a thin two-layer laminate construction that breathes with you, according to how hot or cold you feel. So when it senses you heating up, the membrane will exhale, allowing the fabric to be a touch more permeable, allowing the moisture you are generating to escape. But when the wind is howling, and you’re doing all you can to keep warm, the membrane will reduce permeability, keeping your heat to yourself. The airBlock exterior of the membrane will guarantee that throughout this process, no unwanted wind will be penetrating in any case. As with all Assos pieces, the fit is particularly important. The strategically ergonomic shape of the panels will make the jacket fit feel a little odd until you hunker down into your cycling position. The rear and side panels are made from the same fabric that Assos has lavished on the s7 version of the SS.Uno summer jersey. It dries fast and gives a lovingly snug fit. The upper side of the arms are maybe the second place that has received the greatest updating, since instead of sticking to a single jersey-like fabric, Assos has turned to what is a brand new, light fleecy fabric intended to insulate and soothe you. It cuddles your arms, to keep any drag down from flapping fabric. But its multi-stretch capabilities means that it moves with every flick of your arm, whether you’re reaching back into your pockets for a gel pack, or gesticulating to a driver who buzzed just a little too close. New also to the arms is the WristWrap at the cuffs. This advancement stabilizes the sleeve while also providing a soft section to wipe a runny nose. The rear is kitted out with three generous pockets, including the center pocket, which is zippered to secure those essentials you can never lose, like your keys and smart phone. The full-zip front keeps ventilating simple and immediate. The Assos iJ.intermediate_s7 not only lives up to, but builds on its predecessor’s reputation as being the most effective and versatile cool-to-cold weather jacket on the market.
