Castelli Fawesome 2 Vest

We test the Castelli Fawesome 2 Vest, the Italian cycling brand's gilet that can be your alternative (in warmer weather and nicer conditions) to Castelli's Gabba jersey and jacket
Nick Busca

Score

8/10

Pros

  • Good fit
  • Great breathability
  • Looks good

Cons

  • No rear pockets
  • Back bottom does not protect much from wheels spray

Price as reviewed:

£100.00

If you’re searching for a vest that can keep you warm at the beginning of your ride, or an extra sleeves-less layer capable of protecting you from wind and water, then the Castelli Fawesome 2 vest is almost the perfect gilet you can find out there.

>> Better than Castelli Gabba? Wet weather racing jackets on test

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Castelli describes the Fawesome 2 vest as a packed version of its Gabba 2 jersey. The fabric on the chest and the shoulder is the same: an X-Lite Plus stretch fabric wind stopper that really protects your upper body both from wind and soft rain. To add more protection to your core, the zipper – as Castelli has already done with Gabba jersey and jacket – is fully covered.

Watch: how to dress for the rain

However, in contrast to the Gabba, the dropped tail on the Castelli Fawesome 2 Vest is not as  low, meaning it does not offer as much protection from wheel spray. The fabric in this part of the back (a Nano Flex Light fabric), which is lighter and more breathable than the normal Nano Flex fabric, meaning that you won’t overheat and will fit closer to your body for better aero performance. However it will not protect your back as much as a Gabba from the rain.

>>> Review: Castelli Gabba 2 jacket

Despite this, the Castelli Fawesome 2 Vest is a very technical gilet that is perfect if you’re looking for a warm and breathable vest, that is able to protect you from light showers if needed. However, always bear in mind the lack of pockets.

Verdict

The Castelli Fawesome 2 vest is a very versatile piece of clothing from the chilly to the wet ones, but at the same time will keep you not over heat as it has great breathability. However, the lack of any pockets on the rear and the back will limit the use significantly to fast and speedy rides or will oblige you to have the pockets full underneath the vest if you bring extra layers, nutrition and your mobile. The bottom back material is not protecting much from wheels spray either.

Details

Colours Available: Black, Red, Blue, Hi Vis, Green
Sizes Available: S-3XL
Contact: www.saddleback.co.uk