Buying guide for short sleeve cycling jerseys

All cycling jerseys may look the same, just in different colours, but if you look closer there are many well-thought-out features that cyclists will appreciate. A well-fitting, high-quality short-sleeved cycling jersey offers both comfort and practicality. Modern cycling jerseys help to regulate temperature, prevent perspiration and the back pockets are invaluable for carrying small items with ease.

Fit

The type of cyclist you are will determine which shirt fit is best for you. If you ride competitions a close-fitting cycling shirt is best, but for more relaxed rides where comfort is important a looser fit will be better. Many manufacturers offer different types of fits from aero to relaxed with most people choosing the middle ground to get the best of both worlds. Whichever style you choose, remember to sit in the 'fold position' when trying on, just as you would sit on the saddle. This is the only way to feel whether the jersey is really comfortable while riding.

Substances

Modern materials offer a huge range of benefits. Breathability, ventilation, waterproofing, windproofing, UV protection, compression and aero properties can all be achieved in many different variations. Short-sleeved cycling jerseys are usually lightweight, breathable, well ventilated and offer UV protection. In addition to the zipper at the front, mesh panels provide good ventilation. Acelera's short-sleeved cycling jerseys follow the latest developments in fabrics and design. The Pro Performance shirts combine water, wind and thermal properties in a short sleeve aero jersey.

Construction

Strategic placement of different materials can have a huge effect on comfort and fit. Good cycling jerseys have panels of different materials. Made to provide better ventilation, water and wind resistance or aerodynamic benefits.

Zippers

The zipper on the front of a cycling jersey allows for easy temperature regulation. Short zippers are fine for most situations, but for warmer climates, a longer zipper or a full-length zipper is recommended. This ensures better cooling of the airflow at the top of your body.

To fail

Short-sleeved cycling jerseys usually have pockets at the bottom of the back. These make carrying small items such as telephones, spare parts or a nutrition bar much easier. This way they are out of the way and yet within reach. A zippered pocket is very useful (for money or keys) and is usually on the outside of the pocket, leaving some space on the inside. Don't overload your pockets though, otherwise the shirt will hang over your saddle! :-)

Grippers

Nobody likes to see a flapping shirt, so silicone grippers on the hem are important. A good gripper on the hem keeps the cycling jersey in place and prevents it from sliding down while cycling.

Which cycling jersey with short sleeves should you buy?

Ultimately, the fit of a cycling jersey is the most important feature when choosing a jersey, but a rough guideline is: aero for competitions and speed related events, a relaxed fit for longer recreational rides. For most cyclists among us, a compromise between the two will be best.