Castelli

Superleggera Vest - Women's

When the day's mission includes gaining as much elevation as possible, make sure you have the Castelli Superleggera Women's Vest stuffed in a saddle pack or pocket. Slim and incredibly easy to pack, the Superleggera's easy to forget about until you need it—typically right about the time you arrive atop gusty hills and cool mountain passes and need to arm yourself against a harsh breeze during the long descent.

Though light, the Superleggera's Pertex Quantum fabric blocks wind as well as heavier fabrics, and Castelli complements it with mesh panels that maintain breathability when you're still cooling off after grueling ascents. It doesn't boast the water resistance of some of Castelli's other vests, so it's best suited to the clear, chilly days of early spring and late fall.