The vast majority of lightweight gilets available are unisex, and as such, often baggy at the waist and tight at the hips. At just 122g the Lady Vest is extremely lightweight, although not quite as light as the absolute lightest gilets available such as Rapha's Women's Gilet at 115g or the insanely light Castelli Leggera at just 69g.
That said, the Countdown AS offers a greater degree of protection from the elements than some. The fabric is Gore's WINDSTOPPER Active Shell with water resistance in addition to its windproofing, as well as being breathable enough to help stop you getting damp on the inside instead. It'll keep your torso dry in a shower, although it won't keep the heaviest rain out forever. But then it doesn't have sleeves anyway! Features are minimal but include a mesh panel in the centre of the back to enhance ventilation, two zipped side pockets, reflective accents, a mesh lining for additional comfort and softly elasticated armholes. The fit is neat and contoured without being over tight. The size small I tried was on the snug side, but I'd normally expect to take a medium anyway. Taller women may find the fit on the short side.
In use, the gilet was comfortable and made a decent difference to core temperature without being overwarm or sweaty. It tucks easily into a jersey pocket and is perfect for the changeable conditions of the great British summertime.
High quality, versatile piece of kit that will very quickly pay back the investment. Good value.
road.cc test report
Make and model: Gore Bike Wear Countdown AS Lady Vest
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
Aimed at female cyclists looking for warmth and protection.
Just the ticket for changeable days.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
100% nylon shell with WINDSTOPPER membrane
2 zipped pockets
Elasticated armholes
Mesh back panel
Reflective accents
Anti-chafe seams
Machine washable at 40
Available in sizes 34-44 (XS-XXL)
4 colour options
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
Well made from high quality components
Rate the product for performance:
8/10
Light, protective and very wearable.
Rate the product for durability:
8/10
Good quality fabric and washable at 40 so should stay smelling sweet for longer.
Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
9/10
Not the absolute lightest but a great balance of weight, packsize and protection.
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
9/10
Rate the product for value:
8/10
Excellent value considering how often you'll probably use it.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
Performed extremely well.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
Cut, fit, just enough features.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
Nothing.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.
Would you consider buying the product? Definitely.
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes.
Anything further to say about the product in conclusion?
An excellent lightweight gilet with just the right features. Worth the price for how often it'll be used.
Age: 37 Height: 1.65m Weight: 67kg
I usually ride: My best bike is:
I've been riding for: 10-20 years I ride: Most days I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: commuting, touring, general fitness riding, mtb,
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