7mesh Men’s Chilco Vest review

7mesh’s Men’s Chilco Vest is a high-end gilet built to be a versatile piece of clothing that can add outer protection and inner warmth.

It features the brand's Wind Thermal Ventilation material, in what is otherwise a pared-down and simple construction.

Yes, it’s expensive for what it is, but during testing this was the MTB gilet I pulled out of the wardrobe, time and time again.

7mesh Chilco Vest features and performance

7mesh’s WTV material features in a range of its clothing. The stretch woven outer layer is designed to keep the breeze out, while the soft-pile inner fabric insulates. It also lets just the right amount of warmth out so you don’t overheat, according to 7mesh.

While plenty of materials are claimed to blend a range of performance types, WTV seems to be one of the best at achieving such claims.

A full-on windproof garment will keep the coldest breezes out better and I’d argue a PrimaLoft insulation layer will be warmer.

However, WTV has managed to blend the two together well, ensuring you don't get too hot when you’re putting efforts in.

The soft inner fabric is a wonderfully snug comfort bonus, too – noticeable next to the skin at the high neck.

The gilet has no waterproofing claims, however spray beads off the fabric fine. When wet, there’s still some warmth on offer and it doesn’t feel clammy.

Finishing flourishes

The Chilco is relatively simple in its features, relying on the WTV fabric for the bulk of its performance and appeal.

There’s a single rear pocket that’s accessible on the bike. It’s well-sized, and internally there’s an elastic loop and clip system. Stow the vest into its pocket and this can then be used to strap it to your bike.

With only a single rear pocket, a smaller chest pocket wouldn’t go amiss, although that would push the price yet higher.

The cut is good. It’s generous without being annoyingly baggy and it drops low enough to cover you well, even when in an aggressive position over the bike. The elasticated arm holes aren’t restrictive at all.

The reflective details add to the feature list.

7mesh Chilco Vest bottom line

There’s no doubt this is a pricey garment and one that’s not dripping in features.

However, the WTV fabric really is as good as its claims and the vest is suitably versatile.

I’ve worn it as an outer layer in shoulder-season conditions and as an insulating layer under a mountain bike jacket when it’s properly grim.

Get caught out by the rain and the vest still performs well enough to get you back to the car without ending up a shivering wreck.