Review: Rapha Men’s Explore Lightweight Gilet

For any cyclist in Britain it’s important to build a solid layering system so you can easily adapt to the ever changing weather conditions. Therefore having versatile and packable layers that can easily be put on and stowed away when not in use is key. 

When looking for a gilet I’m looking for something that can help add some extra protection against wind and rain whilst also being lightweight and packable enough to stuff into a jersey pocket or bike bag when not in use.

On Rapha’s site they state that this gilet is meant for long days in the saddle or multi-day rides when lightweight and packable kit is essential.

For my testing, I wore this on a number of rides varying in terrain and what I was wearing. I wanted to test it both with a jersey and with a more relaxed long-sleeve top like the Rapha Explore LS Zip Tech T-shirt.

Despite it being so lightweight it does a great job at protecting you from the wind and even a bit of light rain due to the DWR coating. Although it doesn’t completely eliminate wind chill it does a great job for its size and weight.

Some people may be put off by the lack of pockets and the thought of having to reach under the gilet to access your jersey pockets, however for me this wasn’t an issue as I pretty much always wear cargo bib shorts to store anything I may need whilst riding. Additionally it’s designed to be lightweight and packable so any additional pockets would just take away from what it’s designed to do.

Sadly I didn’t get out on any multi-day rides whilst testing this gilet, however I can see how it would be a great addition to a multi-day layering system due to how lightweight it is and how well it performs.

At £95 this is definitely a considered purchase as there are of course cheaper options out there, especially if you are willing to go for something that’s not as lightweight and packable. However if you are in need of a really lightweight and packable gilet that performs really well for its size and weight, this could be a really great option for you.

When you get an item this packable and lightweight you are always going to compromise on some features, however if you are in the market for something that packs down to virtually nothing and will give you some protection from the elements, this is a great gilet. If you are looking for a gilet for really cold or wet conditions this gilet may not be the best option for you.

Unlike ‘traditional’ road gilets it provides a more relaxed longer fit which in my opinion makes it more versatile and allows you to wear it with a jersey or baggies if you are bikepacking or riding gravel.

Overall I was really impressed with the Explore Lightweight Gilet from Rapha. It’s lightweight, provides some good protection and is a great gilet for those transitional seasons where the weather is unpredictable.