This is an eye-watering price for a gilet but after riding with the Scott Helium a lot we’d urge you not to look away too soon. Made from warm-backed Gore Windstopper it has the luxury feel of an insulated winter jacket.
The zip has a full-length draught flap, there’s a generous zip garage and the drawcord hem snugs everything in for a close fit that keeps out breezes. Instead of a rear pocket there’s an envelope opening that gives access to any pockets underneath – it’s genius.
The Helium is a jacket without sleeves rather than a classic gilet and it’s a versatile piece. Keeping your core warm keeps the rest of you warm too, but being sleeve-free makes you feel less encumbered and prevents overheating.
It’s like wearing waterproof shorts instead of full length over trousers – you get protection where you need it, but without any excess. The cut is relatively easy – we wore more-casual-fit jerseys underneath. We know it’s expensive but we’d wear this a lot in winter – probably instead of a jacket.
