DIRTLEJ VEST REVIEW

May 12, 2025

As the seasons change and the weather can’t make its mind up, having versatile layer options are essential to remain comfortable on the trails. dirtlej designed their Vest to provide a useful packable layer, helping to offer a solution for the bike rides when the temperatures dip or there’s a sudden shower of rain. We’ve been putting the dirtlej Vest to the test through the Spring in both Scotland and the high desert of Oregon, and it’s time to share how it performed.

ABOUT THE DIRTLEJ VEST

dirtlej designed their Vest with packability and versatility in mind. Thanks to an internal pocket that doubles as a storage pouch, the vest will pack down to a size that fits within a hip pack or backpack without too much fuss. There’s a loop in place to hook it onto the likes of a carabiner, though sadly no built-in way to attach to a bike securely.

The dirtlej Vest is made with two different recycled materials. On the front and back panels, there’s a 100% recycled polyester material with a TPU membrane. These panels offer a 20k mm waterproof rating and are windproof, with a 25k g/m2/24h breathability rating. The side panels are made from a 90% recycled polyester and 10% elastane blend, offering stretch to let the vest fit snug and move with the rider. The entire garment is given a DWR coating for water and dirt repellency.

On the chest this packable mountain bike vest has a zipper pocket for storing valuables safely. The internal pocket doubles as the aforementioned storage pocket when packing the vest. On the front, a two-way zip gives versatile wearing options depending on the conditions.

dirtlej offers this packable vest in a wide XS to XXL size range, with a retail price of €99. Overall weight for the size XL tested came in at 198g.

THE DIRT

If Scotland’s typical changeable weather conditions weren’t reason enough for me to want to test an item like the dirtlej Vest, then the temperature swings of the high desert around our Bend, OR, headquarters sure were. Scotland has the special ability to surprise you with a sudden downpour on a sunny day. Bend on the other hand sees temperature differentials unlike anything I’ve experienced. You can begin a Spring ride in near-freezing temperatures and finish close to 20 C (68F). Try dressing properly for that! Spoiler alert – versatile layers are the only way to guarantee comfort.

Opting for the XL left me with enough space to squeeze on top of a couple of layers, but didn’t feel overly large when worn over a standard jersey. I also tried the large, which offered a sportier fit but didn’t produce any restriction.

dirtlej’s packable nature meant I was more inclined to take it with me on rides where it wasn’t necessarily required, but may be handy to call into action. Through a couple of sudden showers it kept me that little bit drier effectively. It was also great to chuck on in the evening in Bend, when temperatures cooled and I needed that little bit more core insulation.

When it was worn on top of a jersey as temperatures climbed above the 12C / 55F range, I began to feel a little stuffy inside when zipped. Though there is a reasonable 25k breathability rating, this waterproof cycling vest is still made from a waterproof material. So, the two-way zipper was called into action. Leaving just a couple of inches zipped near the top, it was possible to wear the dirtlej Vest mostly open without it acting like a windsail.

When taken off and packed, the packable vest fitted into a larger hip pack or medium backpack without issue. The loop was useful to hang it when not being used, but didn’t offer a clean solution for mounting to the bike without a separate strap. This is my one real complaint – it would be great to see a solution incorporated to secure it to a bike solidly.

Though the testing has only spanned a couple of months, it’s been great to see the durability of this mountain bike vest. Showing no signs of wear to the material or zippers so far, I’m convinced dirtlej has put together a durable piece of kit that will perform for season after season.

The Wolf’s Last Word

The dirtlej Vest is a useful and well-executed item to help stay comfortable in changeable conditions on a bike ride. With useful waterproof and windproof properties, it’s a packable and waterproof mountain bike vest that is likely to keep you more comfortable in the saddle for those tricky shoulder season rides.

Price: €99
Website: dirtlej.com

ABOUT THE WOLF

Robert’s habitat is the Tweed Valley, Scotland, which is renowned for its root-littered enduro mountain bike trails. Robert has been developing his bike handling skills for the last 16 years. Since he was a pup, he’s been riding everything from BMX through to enduro and downhill bikes. Combining a playful style with occasional speed-focused aggression, he favors supportive bikes, and does his best to push them hard.

Rank: European Tech Editor
Size: 6’2” / 189cm | 220lbs / 100kg
Social: @robert_johnston

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