When selecting our more sporty test waistcoats, we focussed on two criteria in particular: the waistcoat should be light and packable. Twelve of the 20 test models weigh less than 100 grams and can be crumpled up to the size of a tennis ball. Five other waistcoats are only just over the 100 gram limit.
Some might think that a bin liner with three holes for the head and arms can do the same. Far from it: while the rubbish bag flutters on the body like a Tibetan prayer flag in front of the monastery wall, a good waistcoat fits close to the body and adapts perfectly to your posture on the bike. High-cut and lightly lined collars close neatly so that the wind cannot whistle across your wet, sweaty back like gusts of wind across the Frisian Wadden Sea.
If you want something light and airy, opt for a model with a mesh insert at the back. The larger the area, the better the accumulated bodily fluids can escape. Then even a short sprint on the opposite slope doesn't turn into a sauna session and you don't have to keep taking the waistcoat on and off. On the other hand, closed models offer more protection. Bontrager, Endura and Gore are completely sealed at the back and keep the back comfortably dry even when the rear tyre is rolling on wet paths. Gore and Mavic generally take a slightly different approach with their men's waistcoats. The two rather heavy models are not designed as lightweight overcoats for windy descents. They are more suitable for extended tours. Combined with arm warmers or a long-sleeved shirt, they complete the outfit even on cooler days. You will have to pay at least €50 and a maximum of €150 for one of the waistcoats in the test. As is so often the case, cheap doesn't necessarily mean bad. Very good models are available at entry-level prices.
The best details at a glance
Small, lightweight, functional and weatherproof to boot - a gilet should be more than just a piece of fabric without sleeves. We show where the strengths of the test models lie.
The most comfortable
Many waistcoats, such as the Pearl Izumi shown here, flatter the neck with lined collars. Assos, POC and Protective skimp on the softener.
The most protective
The affordable Endura gilet reliably blocks wind, dirt and drizzle. However, with its closed back, it is also sweatier than other models.
The lightest
The Protective in size M weighs just 72 grams. This makes it about as light as a bar and at least as useful on any tour.
The cleverest
With Adidas and Scott, you can reach directly into the jersey pocket via openings in the back. No more tedious shifting of bars or spare tubes for athletes when changing clothes.
The most suitable
Short at the front, long at the back - looks really stupid standing up, but clearly shows what the Bontrager waistcoat is made for: cycling. This is how a sporty waistcoat should be cut.
The smallest
The Vaude Air Vest packs into its own back pocket and is then not even the size of a fist. At 85 grams, it is also very light.
The complete article was published in Trekkingbike issue 4/2015. You can read the entire issue in the Trekkingbike app (iTunes and Google Play) or order the issue in the DK shop.
You can download the individual articles as PDF files here.
Downloads:
Stefan Frey
Editor
