Two vests, two problems to solve, and two subtly different solutions. Which is better depends on whether you prioritise capacity or fit.
Ronan Mc Laughlin
Two years ago, I reviewed Albion’s Hi-viz Cargo Vest. At the time, it was a fairly niche product that cost more than most jerseys but looked like a life jacket. Safe to say it’s not exactly an example of the “beauty of cycling,” and I copped a fair amount of stick, both among my local training group and online, for waxing lyrical about what, on the face of it, is a ludicrously expensive hi-viz vest.
Nevertheless, it’s still one of my favourite, most-used bits of kit. For almost two years it’s come on almost every ride. As such, I could argue it’s the best-value cycling accessory I’ve found in a long while and some of those who initially questioned my sanity have since invested in an Albion vest for themselves. Not to mention it’s become more prevalent among the gravel and ultra-racing scenes.
Now, there’s a new option on the block. Last May, while watching a YouTube video on The Traka, I noticed a new flash of fluorescent orange among the sea of Albion vests. It was much more figure-hugging and fitted, and thus immediately caught my attention given my main gripe about the Albion is its loose/draggy fit.
Turns out this new hi-viz cargo vest is from POC. Called the Ultra Vest, it’s a subtly different take on Albion’s unlikely must-have. Having seen it, I had to try it and I wanted to know whether POC’s minimalist take could knock Albion off its perch. Two takes on the same idea, two very similar garments but with significantly different executions. So is there a winner? Which one actually works better, and which should you buy? The answer is it depends, mostly, on your intended use.
Comparing designs
Albion’s Visibility Cargo Vest is heavier, offers more capacity, and is clearly built for real-world utility in line with Albion’s “stay outside for longer” ethos. It has zero regard for aerodynamics and only a minimal concession for aesthetics. Essentially, it is just a hi-viz vest with pockets, but with those pockets of various shapes and sizes, a bungee-strap closure system, the breathable material and reflective tape that wraps around the torso, it feels like a serious piece of kit designed by people who understand the demands of riding in ultras and foul weather.
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