You and I are “experts” in cycling apparel in that we have invested Gladwell’s hours riding in shorts, bibs and jerseys, and it feels like we’ve spent Gladwell’s money buying it all. But... since money and user hours are my only investments my comments are as consumer/spectator of the cycling apparel I’ve seen and have been using these past 6 months, and how it differs from apparel 5 or 10 years ago.
Most cycling jerseys will have a few main style and feature options to choose from. Look for full-zip or half-zip styles depending on how much venting you’ll need, take note of sleeve length and style, choose between high-neck or scoop-neck styles for wind protection, and decide on the number and placement of pockets you'll want for stashing snacks and soft-flask bottles.
This jersey was built for comfort on extended rides even on the hottest days of the season. Built with a breezy, lightweight Select Transfer fabric, this jersey is exceptionally moisture-wicking, dries fast, and feels like it’s barely there once you put it on. The polyester is 100% recycled, and the rear pockets bellow out so you can stash more snacks and quick-grab items.
A silicone rear gripper keeps the jersey from riding, and they’ve added reflective patches along the material for safety and visibility.
This affordable jersey is made from a wicking polyester with a light fleece lining for early-morning rides, cooler days, and shoulder season outings. The body-mapped design puts the fleece lining where it’s needed for insulation, but leaves it out of key venting areas, and the face fabric has UV protection as well. This jersey runs small, so check the conversions and sizing chart before ordering.
A cycling jersey is an important piece of a rider’s kit, and a good one is well worth the investment. While it’s true you don’t need a bike-specific top, you’ll find cycling jerseys are moisture-wicking and designed to help reduce wind resistance, a major make-or-break factor when it comes to ride enjoyment. They’re designed to make it easy to access snacks and water without stopping your bike, and their tech fabrics are critical for moisture management to help keep you cool and dry.
