Pearl Izumi Elite Barrier Vest

I purchased one of these for myself four years ago, I still use it on every bike ride I take. The rides are plentiful, including commuting, pleasure crafting, and a few tours; it has held up very well to all of this use. I am 5'10" and 190 lbs., I wear the large, it fits snug but not tight and I can wear it over just a t-shirt all the way up to a fleece backed too-big-for-me softshell jacket. I have bought two more since to give as gifts, the recipients have been pleased as well. An added wonder is the extra room many motorists give a wearer of this vest as I have ridden just a handful of times without this since it's purchase, people give people without this vest less room on the road, it is a fact. A wonderful product, safety first is a good policy.

This vest is a great product. On some unseasonly warm winter days with heavy winds, I'll dawn this over a short sleeve jersey and be absolutely fine (about 50*F with 25 MPH wind). I'm 5' 9", 148 pounds distance runner build. The small is a good fit in the chest, but the arm holes are a tad to big. The tall neck collar is great. The zipper will occasionally not go all the way to the top, which can be bothersome. This is my first wind vest, so I can't say I have much experience with others. I can say, I'm very pleased with this purchase. It's proved its use so far. I purchased the screaming yellow/black for visibility. It certainly is bright. I wear it on my commutes at night.

I really like this vest. I use it almost everyday from fall to spring. I use it on top of a base layer and thats all I need. Protects me from the cold wind and provides a little bit of insulation. Keeps light rain and mist off your body. Dries really quickly if wet. It is not as fancy as the Pro Elite but for half the price you get a superbly performing vest.