KEIS V106 HEATED VEST

“Eeeee…won’t you get electrocuted when it rains?” No mum, I won’t.

Mothers, bless ‘em. She still worries about me out there on two wheels, but I can safely say my winter rides were so much more comfortable with this Keis V106 Comfort Heated Vest and when you’re comfortable riding in the depths of winter, you’re safer, too. Although I have to say that Keis do tell you not to use the product if you’re wet… Don’t worry mum, I put it on UNDER my jacket.

Now, the basic jacket itself comes with everything you need to run it from the bike’s on-board battery, but mine came with the optional HD controller (£35) and a battery pack (£49) as I didn’t see myself doing long journeys in winter. I found that even in some pretty cold conditions (I’ve been using the vest from December through to March) all I needed to do was put it on the medium setting, which you can select from that optional controller. That was plenty warm enough. I found it lasted around 4-5 hours, which isn’t bad and the heat kicks in immediately. Charging seems to take only a couple of hours tops: the red LED on the charger turns green, then you must disconnect as soon as you can.

Keis suggest you check sizes – and I’d agree. I’m a huge bloater, but found the ‘Large’ size was the right side of snug to give you an all-over warm feeling with no loose areas. You’ve even got a pocket to slip the controller/battery into. When switched off, it’s been handy in more clement weather as simply another layer. Very highly recommended.

Bertie Simmonds

Price £125: www.keisapparel.co.uk