Originally Posted by
Looigi
In considering any vest (gilet) or jacket, the first thing I look at is the back. IMO they must have a fully air permeable back. I have a couple of vests with mesh backs that work well. My cold weather soft-shell wind-stopper jacket back blocks no wind and I can easily blow right through it. I find this essential in helping to manage sweat. It also prevent the jacket from ballooning up when riding with the zipper partially open. Slits or vents have not done the job for me.
This is exactly right. Mine has wind-blocking fabric on the front, and the tops of the sleeves. The back breathes. It's da bomb. Blocks the wind on cold descents and releases body heat through the back, as you'd want. Form fitting, too.
I got it from REI, and I believe it's been discontinued.
This one seems to be somewhat similar. The one linked has a hood. Mine has no hood, not that I'd want one. If I were you I'd look for a similar configuration, wind-blocking front and breathable back.