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.
There is a huge variety of bike jerseys available these days, including aerodynamic options for fast road rides, temperature regulation technology for the shoulder season, layering options for inclement weather, and jerseys made for durability and endurance.
When choosing a cycling jersey, consider the primary type of riding you’ll be doing. Are you looking for a form-fitting jersey for aerodynamics on fast road rides? Something looser for all-day comfort on a gravel tour? Do you want a classic mountain bike look, or a more styled road-jersey fit? For hot rides, a lightweight, sweat-wicking jersey with short sleeves is important for moisture management, but windy or cooler rides will be more comfortable with a heavier material that can be layered under a wind jacket or over a base layer.
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 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.
Jelenew makes a variety of comfortable, durable, and affordable outdoor apparel, and this jersey is no exception. We love the moderate neckline that provides draft protection without feeling suffocating, and the smooth full-length zipper for venting. This jersey is lightweight and breathable, with a UPF 50 rating for more sun protection. It comes with three pockets in the back and one secure pocket that can fit credit cards and even a phone.
