There are two kinds of people in this world: those who own a properly-fitting, lightweight gilet and those who don’t. Those who own one know this is an indispensable piece of kit.
The gilet is typically one of the last items that enters into a Cyclist’s wardrobe, long after arm warmers, knee warmers, and long sleeve jerseys have found their way into the kit bag. It’s just a vest, after all, and can’t possibly serve much purpose beyond Looking Pro, can it? It can, in fact.
A vest is an incredibly versatile unit that serves to stave off all kinds of Fuckness – be it from wind, rain, or cold. Furthermore, the sleeveless design makes it easy don or doff, and packs away nicely; a lightweight gilet can be folded flat (first in half, then in thirds) and slipped between the jersey and bibs, keeping the rear pockets clear and accessible for tools and food.
In short, the gilet is a Four-Season Fuckness Stopper that accompanies me year-round, one which I personally hold in higher regard than the long sleeve jersey:
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@Oli
I'd use one more than that if I still lived there. But really I'm just saying, don't underestimate the absurdity of the middle-american climate.
@Nate
To which I'd point out the absurdity of arguing that in such climates there is never the right time to wear a gilet (although I'm not implying you were doing so, Nate).
Buy one or don't buy one, but arguing that gilets are a waste of time just because you think you don't need one is just silly.
I love my V-Gilet. Like I've said on many occasions before, I like riding in the non-summer months better than the shorts/bibs of summer because you look badass kitted up in your "Flandrian Best".
@frank
Or it means that you've gone to the dark side. Just like your alter ego, Jim.
@Nate
Ill agree with Oli on this one. give one a try. I live in southern Arizona and have found it useful this winter in the early morning rides when its bellow 8 or 9 degrees
@Oli, @RedRanger
To be clear -- I am not arguing at all about the usefulness of the gilet, just trying to educate Oli about the absurdity of the middlewestern climate. I've learned the gilet lesson by experience and my next V-Kit order starts with one.
@Nate
We are in total agreement...I'm just pointing out that your "two weeks" of gilet weather is still some gilet weather.
Oh, joy! First interwebular argument of the year! I love you all!
@Oli
No doubt it is some gilet weather. But you are wrong, the conversation we have been conducting is not an argument!
@Nate
yes it is...