BTwin Aerofit Road Cycling Gilet

Aerofit is BTwin's top range of kit, and this Gilet follows the same close-fitting, performance-orientated fit we saw in the Aerofit Bib Shorts I tested recently. The quality and finish is pretty exceptional when you consider its £39.99 price tag.

A good, lightweight gilet is a wardrobe must not just for spring and autumn, but also for those cooler summer days too. Early morning starts, when the air is still crisp but you know it's going to warm up before you get home, call for a gilet that can provide you with enough warmth to start with but also be thin enough to pack down into a jersey pocket.

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The Aerofit manages this with ease thanks to a windproof membrane on the front to stop the chills and a mesh back panel to let any heat build-up escape, stopping you getting clammy.

Although it's not designed to, that membrane also works pretty well against light rain and drizzle – you can see the water bead off as you're riding. It doesn't take long to be overwhelmed by heavy rain, but considering it's not being marketed as a waterproof I'd say it does a very good job.

As I've mentioned, the gilet is tailored to offer a pro-level close fit, both to keep you warm and to avoid any material flapping about in the wind.

The tail is a little longer to give your lower back some extra coverage when in the drops, and an elasticated hem keeps everything in position. You get the same at the sleeves too, which also stops any draughts from getting in.

For the same reason the Aerofit also has a tall neck with a zip garage to stop anything digging into your throat.

The only thing I'd say the gilet really lacks are pockets; admittedly, not every gilet has them but it is something I like to see, even if it's just a small zipped one. It's a minor quibble, though, and their omission does mean the Aerofit folds down very small and flat.

As far as value goes, the Aerofit stands up very well at just under 40 quid; compare it to the Madison model recently tested – a very good gilet for its £45 asking price – and the BTwin just feels a little bit better in every respect, and it's at least 50g lighter too.

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The quality of the manufacturing is as impressive as it normally is from BTwin (that's 'impressive') and another plus point to add to the value stakes. The stitching is tight and tidy, with no loose threads apparent.

Overall, the BTwin Aerofit Gilet is one of the best I've used for varying temperatures, as well as being easy to pack down and fit in your pocket. The shape is well cut, so it fits everywhere it should without leaving any excess material flapping about. On the whole, it's really hard to fault.

Verdict

Excellent race-ready gilet that impresses even in poor weather