Rapha’s original Brevet Gilet quickly become one of the most popular cycling vests in the industry when it was launched in 2011. Much-loved for successfully combining hi-vis and reflective details into a non-garish, smart design, it has been worn by cyclists all over, from long-distance epics to commutes to work, and everything in-between. For 2017, Rapha’s product developers set themselves a task: how to improve it?

The biggest change is a newly engineered rear pocket structure: the middle pocket cleverly opens out into a full width pocket ‘bag’, allowing you to easily store larger jackets or the provisions required for a long-distance ride without cramming them into small pockets. The gilet has been refined all over for a cleaner finish. The now iconic Brevet reflective and hi-vis stripes remain across the chest and back, while improved mesh side panels stretch to even accommodate full jersey pockets. The zip is now two-way, improving versatility for temperature regulation and access to jersey pockets. Even more packable than before, the Brevet Gilet remains the go-to for those in-between moments when a jersey isn’t warm enough and a jacket would be too hot.