MAAP Surface Team Vest review

For starters, the MAAP Surface Team Vest feels tough and has proven resilient over the testing period. Sure, this is something you'd expect, especially considering you'll be dropping the best part of £130 on it – but it's nice to see it borne out in practice.

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It's also a great fit. The size small tested here was snug but certainly not cramped and the material was kept close to the body.

The arm holes aren't massive – which went a long way to keeping the wind out, something that other gilets I've tested have fallen foul of.

In fact, the MAAP Surface Team Vest is pleasantly aero. There was never any undue flapping or parachuting out the back when a breeze was blowing.

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The snug fit definitely helped keep things warm, too. On cold, dry days I found the gilet to be the perfect complement to a base layer and winter jersey.

There's also plenty of space in the rear pockets to stuff a rain jacket for when it gets wet.

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Equally, I was impressed with how windproof the body was, which will have gone a long way to keeping things warm when riding.

That said, there's definitely scope for the MAAP Surface Team Vest to be more breathable. I found that after finishing rides I would have a damp torso, which to me signals a lack of ventilation.

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Three rear pockets adorn the back of the vest which is good to see on a gilet, although there was the noticeable emission of a zipped pocket.

Thankfully, the three are stitched tight enough to keep your valuables safe, but for peace of mind it'd be nice to have a zipped one.

Elsewhere, MAAP has really sweated the small stuff. The front zip has a great action to it as well as being protected from the inside by a wind flat.

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Similarly, the silicone grips and tight waist make sure nothing gets too blustery below.

Of course, there's no avoiding the hefty price tag, but for those in the market for bespoke kit, the MAAP Surface Team Vest is a great option.

For more information contact maap.cc