Primal Trimotif Men’s Wind Vest

The Primal Trimotif Men's Wind Vest is an effective, well-made and sturdy solution for riding in the wind. It's priced well and looks particularly good with the other Trimotif kit, though the fit is more casual than the racier jersey, and the looks won't be for everyone.

• Pros: Tall and comfy collar, good length, room for multiple layers, effective, visible
• Cons: More relaxed fit than the matching jersey, doesn't scrunch down well

While it's a bit bulky and loose for serious racers, this gilet is perfect for everyone else – although if you plan to use it in summer only, over the matching short-sleeved jersey, you could try sizing down for a more aero fit. It's a little odd given the jersey's skinny race cut, but the upside is room for a winter layer or two beneath the gilet.

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It wasn't loose enough to do any serious flapping, and I particularly appreciated its effective windproofing and the high, soft-lined microfleece collar with its snug but unrestrictive fit. The zip gets a substantial windflap behind to stop leaks, and the full length retroreflective strip on it is a nice touch... even if it's invisible with the zip done up.

The zip itself is a large metal two-way job from YKK, and is easy to use in gloves, if not – like every two-way zip ever – that easy to engage. It's nice to have the option to keep the wind off your chest while letting your belly hang out in the breeze, though.

The Altero fabric is substantial enough to withstand plenty of use and even small crashes, as is the impressive stitching. All seams are flatlocked bar the collar, which is overlocked, and nothing rubs. The elastic hem is sealed in a stitched-on tape and works well to keep the rear in place, while the three pockets are capacious and secure.

The downside is that the whole thing just doesn't like to scrunch or fold small in pockets. You don't really feel its 132g weight, but you can feel the bulk as it pads out whatever space it can. It pays you back in protection against unexpected winds and drizzle, however, and it's usefully visible when the skies turn grey.

> Buyer's Guide: 8 of the best cycling gilets

You're not short of options for windproof gilets, and with a great many at £90+ (and most of the cheaper ones intended as packable layers), the Trimotif's £45 tag looks good. There are competitors, though, among them the Lusso Skylon, a lighter (105g) and cheaper (£39.99) option, and the  Shimano Compact Wind Vest, also lighter (by 37g) and, if bright colours aren't your bag, baby, much blacker. It's only £10 more.

For extra visibility you could consider the Hump Flare gilet, which matches the Primal for abilities, adds subtler coloured panels and reflectives to the black, and offers the chance to ride around with the word HUMP printed on you in capital letters.

Conclusion

Overall, Primal's Trimotiv wind vest is a really well-made, stylish and capable option that should serve you well for a long time.

Verdict

A well-made and effective gilet for a good price, with room for winter layers