Kinda depends on your budget and whether you need a jacket that can keep you comfortable for ten miles or more, or one to just ward off a sudden T-storm on a short commute.
The Elite 2.0For the short commute, IÂ’d just go cheap. MarmotÂ’s Precip ($99) is a winner here. Waterproof, decent breathability, light, and packable. You arenÂ’t going to be all that happy in a downpour anyway. The Precip will keep you dry and you wonÂ’t overheat too much. ItÂ’s all good. REIÂ’s Ultralight ($119) is a similar 2.5-layer piece, with nice details (such as pit zips and chest pocket) and decent breathability.
You also can spend more $$ and get something that is more comfortable and breathable. Here an Oregon firm called Showers Pass has really taken the lead. Its Elite 2.0 ($230) may be one of the best cycling jackets out there. It uses three-layer eVent, an extremely breathable, waterproof fabric that is great. I have eVent in an older Pearl Izumi jacket (no longer made), and it is a fantastic cycling-jacket material. ItÂ’s light, and has big pit zips and other features for extra ventilation.
You might also try GoreÂ’s Countdown jacket ($250), which uses GoreÂ’s light, breathable PacLite fabric, an excellent material for cycling. This is a great buy in a Gore-Tex jacket, and Gore has made a decent cycling-specific piece.