Back in 2013, I reviewed the
Intrepid Apparel Freedom Gilet, and it fast became one of my favourite pieces of kit. I took to wearing it both on and off the bike; for everything from mountain bike missions, to commutes and casual trips to the shops. It provided a welcome layer of protection from the wind and cold.
Earlier this year,
Intrepid Apparel - a UK based rider-owned company, released their new Pioneer Gilet. They sent one over for me to test, and I was keen to see how it compared to the previous soft-shell vest.
The most apparent change is the new colour-way: gone are the red detailing with white zips; in their place are sky blue zips and more subtle black detailing. The result, is a top that gains even more versatility, as it blends in better with casual wear, and looks great both on the street and the trails.
The cut of the new Pioneer Gilet also seems to be better. It's a little bit closer fitting, and it retains its cycling specific fit; with a low cut rear hem and plenty of freedom of movement. You can utilise the draw strong hem to snug things up too, when it gets cold. I opted for a medium size again, and it is a great fit.
Other noteworthy features that the Pioneer Gilet has retained from its predecessor, include a warm high-cut neck, a wind baffle behind the strong main zip, and a wide range of pocketing options in the form of a napoleon chest pocket and a rear stash pocket. These are the kind of features that demonstrate this is a garment designed by regular riders, who know what is valued when out on the trail.
The Pioneer Gilet is a feature packed and very well designed waterproof and windproof gilet then. Perhaps the most impressive thing though, is the value. Retailing for £49.00 RRP, it is very competitively priced, and you get a versatile top that is built to last and made from quality materials.
It seems that Intrepid Apparel has done it again with the Pioneer Gilet; it's a great top that excels in UK weather conditions, and should last you many seasons of frequent use both on and off the bike.
View the Intrepid Apparel range at IntrepidApparel.co.uk (Link)
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High-cut collar to keep out the wind |
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Zippered Napoleon chest pocket |
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Inner storm baffle with chin guard |
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Great detailing and embroidery |
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Another great design and great value piece of apparel from Intrepid Apparel |
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