You’ll be wearing a garment like this in potentially hot and dry conditions, with a race jersey on top, so good breathability is essential. It’s asking a lot but we feel the Paragon vest is as close to a no-compromise garment as we have found.

‘From a brand steeped in two wheeled racing our expectations were high and we weren’t disappointed’

Using a very lightweight and comfortable combination of a mesh and a synthetic stretch fabric, this vest is cut for a close fit and is panelled for added comfort. It’s ‘over the head’ when putting this vest on – there’s no full zip on the front – but there is a diagonal zip from the shoulder to the chest to aid entry. A sleeve on the back of the vest holds the Level 1 CE certified back protector which is a three ply construction and is tuneable to suit your needs. The three individual layers are perforated to help with ventilation and cooling. This sleeve can also take a hydration bladder and there is routing for the hose over the left shoulder.

Storage is adequate with three pockets (with padding on the inner side for comfort) – one zipped on the lower back and one on each side above the hip. These side hip pockets are easy to reach and have room for energy bars or gels.