I’m a huge fan of vests as a way to add warmth without bulk. Along those same lines, the Warmfront chest warmer offers significant warmth and wind protection without adding unnecessary bulk.
Warmfront Ultralight and Koselig Features:
- Bib-style design with Velcro closure
- Tall, soft collar offers extended protection and warmth
- Lightweight and stowable
- Ultralight features waffle-style fabric
- Koselig features wind/water-resistant fleece
- MSRP: $29-$36
Put on your dickey, stay warm and cozy
I was introduced to the Warmfront by the founder, Matt Sodnicar, who told me straight-up that it sounds like a funny product and that he’d be excited to hear my honest thoughts. Skeptical at first, I awaited the samples. And, once they arrived I wondered if they would even be worthwhile. I mean, it looks like an adult-sized dinner bib. Questioning aside, the only way to determine its usefulness was to get out on the bike, so that’s what I did.
Warmfront is available in two fabrics: Ultralight and Koselig. Ultralight features a thermal waffle pattern (like Polartec Power Grid) and the Koselig utilizes lightweight wind-blocking and water-resistant fleece. Both have the same collar with simple Velcro closure strap. The simplicity of the design feels very unassuming and it is handmade with love in Colorado.
Putting it on is easy — particularly if you use it with full-zip jerseys. I simply put on my jersey, then the Warmfront and zipped up my jersey. The design lays flat on the chest and is easy to keep tucked inside. You may need to hold it in place as you initially zip up the jersey, but it’s pretty straightforward.
The Velcro strap on the collar allows adjustment for 16-20″ necks. I’m right on the lower end of that and found the excess Velcro to become a bit scratchy if my jersey collar pulled it down during rides. Perhaps the collar fabric could be extended to cover the full Velcro strap? That may alleviate that issue, but could also add unnecessary bulk. As it stands, I just had to take note to tuck the excess strap around properly.
I used both the Ultralight and Koselig designs and found each one to provide significant warmth and wind protection. The Koselig really does a great job of keeping the wind off. I wore it with a summer-weight jersey and arm warmers in 45-55 degree temperatures. The thing works! And, if I got too toasty, it’s wicked-easy to simply undo the Velcro and yank it out from under your jersey.
The Ultralight offers a softer feel and excellent warmth, but does lack full wind protection. It feels more flexible next-to-skin and still knocks the edge off cold mountain descents. In that regard, I’ve found myself stashing these in a jersey pocket just in case. It packs small and works as advertised.
The Good
- Simple and effective weather protection
- Both styles offer good warmth
- Tall, soft collar is key to overall function
The Bad
- Excess Velcro strap can fold down and become scratchy
The Bottom Line: Warmfront Chest Warmer
The KISS (Keep it Simple, Stupid) principle is certainly in play with the Warmfront chest warmers. The tall collar keeps your neck warm and the front-facing fabric does a great job at keeping your entire core warm. This little wonder has delivered beyond my expectations. And, at around $30, it just might be the cheapest and easiest way to stay warm on your bike.
Buy Now: Available at TheWarmfront.com
