An updated cold weather classic-- Pearl Izumi's Thermal Barrier Vest returns with new materials and design for 2010. In pursuit of the ultimate blend of protection and comfort, they've strategically placed Barrier fabric over a Thermal Fleece body to resist wind and water, maintain warmth and still allow breathability where it's needed most. True Red/Black.
Strengths: Fit is excellent. Many of the cloths for cyclists are Europeon size, where an XL is a 40-42. Pearl Izumi is sized for American Riders, so their XL fits 44 weel. Good storage pocket - looks really nice. Has several colours but I have the same as the one pictured - which they call black. Stores well. Well made.
Weaknesses: I would put this up against any of the higher end models by anyone.
Bottom Line:
This jacket has long sleeves that extend a bit past the wrist - I wear a 17 1/2 shirt with a 36-37" long sleeve and this works well. Its a bit longer in the back. It is said to be breathable - and appears to be able to do that as you can blow through it - with great effort. So it does block the wind. Water beads up on it but i suspect in a downpour it would eventually soak through. However, even if it does this type material would give some warmth - once the water was warmed by your body heat. My wife has a vest of this and used it last year with excellent results. It works well from at least 37 F to 55 or so. Was used in one rain shower - and it repelled water. Was a little damp when I got home but was dry within 2 hours.
