Lidl is releasing two men's gilets this weekend that look similar to a much more expensive designer version. The Men's Black Padded Gilet, priced at £8.99, has been labelled a "top pick" and will be in stores from October 18.
Features and Availability
The gilet is described as "lightweight, warm and wind-resistant" and is water-repellent thanks to the BIONIC-FINISH ECO technology. It features a high collar with a full zip and chin guard, as well as pockets. It comes in sizes medium to extra, extra large, and also in burgundy for the same price.
Shoppers can head to the Middle Aisle from October 18 onwards to pick it up.
Comparison with Designer Options
The Lidl gilet looks similar to Castore's Padded Gilet, sold in John Lewis for £105. The Castore version comes in sizes small to extra large. John Lewis' product description reads: "A padded gilet by Castore that brings lightweight warmth without bulk, cut for easy layering with a streamlined profile and a zip-through front. Wear it solo on brisk days or slip it under a coat when temperatures drop." The Castore gilet features a zip closure and two side pockets with zips.
Marks and Spencer also sells a black padded gilet, which also comes in navy. The £35 Feather and Down Padded Lightweight Gilet is stocked in sizes small to four extra large. It features a zip fastening and is lined.
Shopper Feedback
Shoppers have been happy with their purchase of the Marks and Spencer gilet. One said: "Bought as a gift, quality good, got a large in the navy, perfect fit and not too bulky, perfect for autumn and winter." Another added: "Perfect extra warm layer for autumn, lightweight and very good value." Someone else commented: "My husband is very pleased with his new purchase, the second one he has had, he loves it because it is lightweight and easy to wear."
However, some shoppers have found issues with the quality. One said: "I bought this for my husband and three months later he tore it. He loved it so much I bought him another one. However, this second one was much poorer quality; in particular, the zip is very cheap with much smaller teeth, and it keeps coming apart if zipped up. Also, slightly less padding, particularly around the collar."
Another wrote: "I was disappointed by the lack of thickness to the padding. The thermal advantage was not as good as I was expecting."
Lidl's gilet will be in stores from October 18.
