Cycling Jerseys buying guide

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Contents

1 Fabric
2 Sizing and Fit
3 Jersey Components
4 Top Manufacturers
5 Quick Picks
6 Biking Gloves
7 Related Guides
8 External Links

Cycling Jerseys Buying Guide

A cycling jersey is more than just something to wear when cycling. It is instrumental in helping the cyclist go at top speed, ride comfortably, and of course look as fashionable as possible. There are many components that go into making a good cycling jersey. Depending on what your specific needs are, it is essential to consider all the factors before purchasing.

Fabric

Polyester blends are the most popular choices for cycling jersey fabrics. Usually made from either straight polyester, polyester/lycra, or propriety polyester, these blends help keep the body cool and moisture free. This is because they have the ability to wick moisture from the body, helpful when climbing a steep mountain or racing to the finish line.

Sizing and Fit

Cycling jerseys tend to have a tighter fit in order to prevent material from flapping in the wind when riding. This adds to the efficiency for the cyclist.
There are alternative fits known as "Club Fit" or "Recreational Fit" which are looser around the shoulders and the mid-section and resemble a golf shirt. These are intended for casual cyclists.
For men's cycling jerseys, the chest and neck area are where the jerseys are measured. European-made jerseys are normally smaller than American-made ones.
For women's cycling jerseys, the bust and hip area are fuller and the waist is tapered.

Jersey Components

Zipper length determines how much ventilation you can receive during a long bike ride. Zippers that are 9"-10" provide minimum ventilation compared to 14" zippers that go down to the belly button which gives maximum ventilation. Full length zippers are also useful, especially for jerseys that are very tight-fitting.
Sleeves come in two styles. The tradition sleeves have the seams that run straight up from the armpit which can be somewhat constricting. Raglan sleeves run from the neckline to the armpit in a diagonal fashion which allows the cyclist much more freedom.
Hems are elastic for the more professionaly styled jerseys for they also help jerseys from billowing and flapping in the wind. Recreational jerseys do not have the elastic hem.
Pockets cut across the back for easy reach. There are also zippered pockets avaIlable in recreational jerseys to secure wallets and keys.

Top Manufacturers

Quick Picks

Fox Poacher Cycling Jersey
80% Polyester / 16% Cotton /4% Spandex.

Technical t-shirt with raglan cut.

Screen printed graphics.

Fox Gaia Girls Cycling Jersey
100% Wicking Polyester.

Screen printed FOX graphic hit at bottom hem.

High performance wicking material channels moisture away from your body.

Sunglass wipe sewn in at hem.

Audio Interface with a custom pocketand internal cord routing for MP3 players.

Dakine Mountain Shield Short Sleeve Cycling Jersey
Moisture wicking polyester fine mesh.

Moisture wicking polyester mesh panel.

Eyewear chamois at left interior sideseam.

Troy Lee Designs Descender Protector
The descender protector provides the protection thrill-seeking speed racers need.

It features a sewn-in mesh liner which allows for air circulation, keeping the wearer as comfortable as possible.

Perforated high-density bio-foam.

13 polycarbonate plastic shoulder, elbow, forearm, and spine guards.

Built-in kidney belt supports the lower back.

Troy Lee Designs DP Jersey
100% flat-back polyester construction.

Tapered cuff design.

Raglan sleeves with athletic cut.

Gel print on tail keeps jersey in place.

V-Neck collar design for added comfort.