Riding Jerseys

Mountain Bike Jersey Buyer's Guide

Mountain bikers know that sometimes a trusty cotton t-shirt just won't cut it. Purpose built cycling jerseys make a noticeable difference in terms of comfort, performance and style because they combine high quality materials and an ergonomic fit to optimize freedom of movement and regulate body temperature in all weather conditions. There are jerseys intended specifically for the cold, the wet, the hot and the dry.

Types

There are two major types of jersey: loose-fitting and tight-fitting. Loose-fitting jerseys are great for every kind of mountain biking. The favorite of downhillers, freeriders, many all-mountain and trail riders, they're comfortable and breathable, without being too revealing. Tight-fitting jerseys are the cross-country racers weapon of choice. These sleek garments fit like a second skin, have pockets on the back, and offer great ventilation thanks to a large zipper down the front. Both types of jerseys are available in long-sleeve, short-sleeve and sleeveless versions to suit any personal taste.

Sizes

Sized the same as any shirt, riding jerseys come in all of your favorite sizes for both men and women: extra-small, small, medium, large, extra-large and extra-extra large. Riders generally wear the same size jersey as they do t-shirt.

Materials

For warm weather riding, loose-fitting jerseys are made from polyester. Tight-fitting jerseys tend to incorporate spandex for added comfort. Wet and cold weather models use waterproof materials like Gore-Tex to keep the wetness out, and insulating materials like fleece to keep the heat in.

Things To Look For

Just like shopping for any garment, the most important thing to look for in a riding jersey is proper fit. But first, you must find the right type of jersey for your riding style and climate. There are jerseys designed specifically for all riding disciplines and weather conditions. Finally, looking into details like stitching, ventilation, insulation, sleeves, goggle/lens wipes, zippers, cuffs, collars and pockets is worth the effort.

How Much To Spend

Riding jerseys range in price from $30 to $125.

In the $30-$65 range, jerseys are available in both loose and tight-fitting designs and are primarily short sleeve. They use the same polyester and spandex materials as the more expensive models, but in more basic colorways and designs.

Moving up to the $65-125$ range, high quality jerseys in all types, materials, and sleeve lengths are available in many colors and designs, allowing for maximum selection.

Product Reviews

Before buying, be sure to do your research and read product reviews. Reviews are a great way to find out specifics about a particular model, user impressions, and things to watch out for. After you've purchased a product and had enough time to thoroughly test it, we encourage you to leave a review for other people to see when they are researching bikes and parts on the web.

We hope you've found this information to be helpful. If you have a question that isn't answered in this guide, our mountain bike forums are a great place to get advice from knowledgeable riders. Your local bike shop is also a great resource.