Having thought the sting vest had gone the way of many other post-war gentlemen’s garments such as braces and bowler hats, I have to admit my surprise when I was asked to test one out for TWC. But 80-odd years on from its invention, nothing has changed and as unflattering as it might be, a string vest works wonders as a cycling base layer.
The Primal Wear Inc IERO2 is made from polyester which doesn’t absorb moisture so works to keep you an even temperature by wicking sweat away from your body to outer layers so helping cooling and preventing your shirt sticking to your back. Conversely, in cooler temperatures it keeps you warm by trapping pockets of air between your skin and outer garment keeping the warmth in. And it does seem to work really well.
Fit-wise the IERO2 comes in just one size; the lycra and mesh of the top means in theory that you’ll get a good fit whatever your shape, height, girth or sex. Despite my scepticism of this ‘uni-sizing’ it did seem to fit really well and was perfectly comfortable although did look a bit baggy in places (I’m a UK size 10). I didn’t get anyone larger or smaller to try it though so can’t vouch for its ability to adapt one way or another although I have no reason to doubt it would do the job. The material is really soft and comfortable and most of the time I never really noticed I had it on.
My only quibble with the vest is that it is massively unflattering and you certainly need to avoid being seen by anyone else or being in 10 yards of a mirror whilst wearing it. At nearly £50 it’s not cheap either but it does perform well if you’re willing to spend the money.
PROS
Great, wicking baselayer
Adapts to your size
Soft and comfortable
CONS
Don’t wear it out in public
Price
£47.99, available from Primal.
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