Santini Alpha Pack Vest review: the unlikely garment that's revolutionised my winter cycling forever

Designed as an addition to Santini's gravel wardrobe collection, the Alpha Pack vest is, according to the brand, one of the best cycling vests out there, as it's versatile enough for wearing both on and off the bike. It's an area I pondered about earlier this year when I asked if multisport athletes get away with owning just one jacket for all outdoor adventures.

The vest appears to be the brand's affirmative response to that very question, creating a piece of kit that aims to keep you warm whatever your outdoor activity.

But can a garment designed for keeping your torso warm really become an essential piece of kit?

Construction

Santini has embraced a looser fit in the construction of the Alpha Vest when compared to more traditional cycling vests. Its relaxed design nods to the off-bike use, although don't expect an aero advantage here.

Having worked in partnership since 2017, it's not surprising to see Santini choosing Polartec fabrics for this latest garment.

The outer layer is a lightweight, windproof woven shell, which should keep out cold winds. This is teamed with a wide-zipped front pocket, which also doubles as the vest's storage pouch, three large rear mesh pockets, reflective detailing, and an off-centre full-length zip.

On the inside, merino wool-based Polartec Alpha fabric adds warmth without increasing weight, and assists in breathability, aiding the swift transfer of moisture away from your body.

The ride

It was with some apprehension that I pulled on the Santini Alpha Pack Vest for the first time. I didn't get the large front pocket, and couldn't work out what weather window I would need something so warm looking that didn't have arms.

One ride in and I was hooked on the garment I never knew I needed.

So much so, that I now rarely leave home on the bike without it. I find the Alpha Pack Vest a perfect mix of practical features and warmth.

I've found the Alpha Pack Vest ideal for wearing when riding with my 10-year-old, with the pace a little slower than I would perhaps ordinarily ride, keeping my core warm for the duration.

On the flip side, on a rapid e-bike ride, when the pace was much faster, but again without huge exertion, it did a great job of blocking the wind.

When I have worn it for faster-paced rides, I haven't felt overheated. However, if you do run hot on rides, it would probably be best reserved for the coldest months.

The front pocket is perfect for easy access to my phone for capturing riding moments on camera, yet I question its location. If I were riding a bike without guards it would be directly in the firing line for front wheel-spray, and zip-jamming mud splatters.

The rear pockets, however, are super practical. They're so roomy that I've stowed everything from water bottles to ride snacks and spares. The vest is so well structured that I forgot the bottles were there until I sat down at a mid-ride cafe stop and felt them protruding into my back for the first time.

With the temperatures in the north of the UK still lurking between 8dec C/ 46F and 15degC/59F, I've found teaming the Alpha Pack Vest with the Santini Guard Neos jacket perfect, with just an adjustment of base layer to get my riding temperature spot on. I've really appreciated the off-centre zip for such layering, reducing neck congestion that multiple layers can create.

Yet, even with all this riding positivity, I'm not convinced I'll use such a cycling-focused item for a hike in the hills. The front pocket would come into its own, but without side pockets, and just rear ones, there's no getting away from its cycling origin.

Value and conclusion

When it comes to cycling kit staples, a vest/gilet is generally considered 'nice to have' so it's amazing how quickly I've adjusted to having the Santini Alpha Pack Vest as part of my cycling wardrobe.

So far it's barely been off my back for riding, making the whole 'what to wear' conundrum that often arises in the in-between seasons easy to overcome. Would I wear it off the bike? I highly doubt it, even the suggestion feels like a marketing ploy that doesn't add value to a great piece of cycling apparel.

In terms of price tag, while £160/ $204 isn't cheap, it sits well against its thermal vest peers, such as the Rapha Brevet Gilet.

It may not be essential to my core cycling wardrobe, yet it's now a dependable layer that I've come to rely on, not only in terms of warmth but also voluminous pocket space. I can't see how I've been managing without one.

Specifications

• Vest outer: Lightweight windproof woven shell fabric
• Vest inner: Merino Wool based Polartec Alpha
• Pockets: Heat taped zipped chest pocket, Triple back mesh pockets
• Temperature range:  +5°C to +15°C/41 to 59 °F (suggested)
• Made in Italy
• Sizes: S - 3XL
• Colours: Four
• Weight: 206g/ 7.2oz (size small)