Yes, the Cafe du Cycliste "Madeleine" is my first ever vest.
I’d been telling myself I should buy one for a long time, but I just kept going with a "it’ll work out somehow" attitude. Finally, I decided it was time. Well, another reason was simply that it looked cool.
Now that the mornings and evenings have finally started to feel chilly,
I took this Cafe du Cycliste "Madeleine" out for a quick ride this past Sunday before opening the shop, and man, "vests" are great!
(I’m 170cm tall and 63kg, wearing a size S. I look a bit gloomy in the photo, don't I?)
It blocks the cold wind, it doesn't get as stiflingly hot as a sleeved jacket once your body warms up, you can just unzip it to release heat without taking it off, and it doesn't flap in the wind like a sleeved one does—this thing is fantastic!
I’m sure many of you already know this, but I just wanted to say how great it really is.
Regarding that flapping I mentioned, this vest has a large mesh section on the back, so it not only prevents heat from building up but also lets air pass through, which helps reduce flapping.
Also, while it doesn't have back pockets, the lower part of the mesh has a wide opening, making it incredibly well-designed to easily access the back pockets of the jersey you're wearing underneath.
(Please check our webshop as well.)
So, today I’d like to introduce a variety of vests.
First up, something we haven't featured much on the blog: PEARL IZUMI USA.
PEARL IZUMI USA
P.R.O Barrier Lite Vest ¥6,820
COLOR : Black/White , True Red
The fabric is incredibly light and thin.
It packs down quite compactly, making it very easy to stow in a back pocket.
It’s a vest with the essential functions: it blocks wind and is slightly water-repellent.
Its simple, clean design makes it a versatile piece that pairs well with any jersey.
We have also received the women’s model from PEARL IZUMI USA.
PEARL IZUMI USA
Women’s ELITE Barrier Vest ¥6,300
COLOR : Black Plaid , Black
Whether it’s the plaid or the black and white combo, it’s a simply cute women’s model.
This one features a large mesh back, making it suitable for long rides while wearing it.
So, it’s always ready for your back pockets.
And next, men’s and women’s models from Rapha.
Rapha
Hi Vis Gilet ¥16,000
Men’s(Left)&Women’s(Right)
Dazzling pink with two reflective stripes.
This new Rapha vest takes the top spot for high visibility, hands down.
With durable, windproof, water-resistant, and stretchy fabric, plus a mesh back and back pockets, it’s a vest that will serve you well in various situations.
And this is also from Rapha.
Rapha
Rapha Gilet ¥17,500
COLOR : Black , White
Rapha’s staple item, the "Rapha Gilet."
It uses the same windproof, water-resistant, and stretchy fabric as Rapha’s signature Wind Jacket.
Rapha also offers another model called the "Softshell Gilet" with higher thermal insulation, but I plan to introduce that another time.
Finally, I’d like to introduce PISSEI, marked by their heart logo.
PISSEI
Brushed Vest Cuore ¥17,640
The signature heart trademark is printed large on the back.
And this is the front.
In contrast, this side features only a small logo on the chest—a very simple design.
It’s designed for use in the cold winter, utilizing a highly insulating fabric with a brushed interior.
Additionally, the front uses highly windproof fabric, while the back uses highly breathable fabric, providing excellent wind protection and moisture management.
With all that said, we have a solid stock of vests ready that you can use in autumn, winter, and even spring.
If you’ve been struggling with what to wear for your rides as it’s gotten a bit colder, please check these out!
A vest is the best!!!
(Sorry, I couldn’t help myself...)
Don’t forget to check back for new autumn/winter items from PISSEI and ASSOS arriving later this week!
yanakku