December 22, 2000


What's a cycling vest that won't make my back sweat?

I ride my bike to and from work. During the winter, when it dips below about 30 degrees, my chest gets quite cold from the wind hitting it. However, given my warm-blooded nature, my back can be sweating at the same time. The jackets I have tried overheat me, and short sleeves leaves me chilled. Is there a vest available for countering the wind that would leave the back essentially open for full ventilation? Thanks in advance,

— M. Moore Boise, Idaho

Sure, there are several vests of this type. Probably the standard-issue bike vest is Pearl Izumi's Zephrr-2 Vest ($55). The front half of this vest is made of a windproof, water-resistant fabric, while the back is made of mesh for ventilation. It stuffs easily into a jersey pocket should it warm up enough. Alas, it has no pockets, which is a source of ceaseless vexation to me.

Several companies offer pocketed alternatives. Probably the best is the Performance Illuminite Vest ($59). It's made of a glow-in-the-dark material that motorists can easily see and has a mesh back. Hind's Microcycle Vest ($49) is another variation on the theme, with a windproof front and mesh back.

I'm a little surprised that in 30-degree temperatures you aren't wearing some sort of jacket. I tend to think of vests as between garments, for that 40- to 45- degree range, and I bike in pretty cold weather. Pearl Izumi's Zephrr-2 Jacket ($60), over a light long-sleeve insulating layer, should be ideal. Warm, but light and breathable.

Anyway, hope this helps. Good luck!

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