TheRCF

Okay, I recently got a new bike (Felt F-35) that I really like. I'm getting faster - can generally make my 12.5 mile trip to Waikiki at 17 mph or better if pushing (18.7 is my record average).

Now I'm thinking about getting a bike jersey. Those things can be darn expensive so I want to make sure I get something that will work for me in my conditions.

I'm in Hawaii and that means that normally it won't be colder than 63 degrees when I ride in the winter months. In the summer, the high temperature will usually be no higher than 91 degrees.

I'd more concerned about the heat than the cold (such as it is). I do have a Pearl Izumi jacket I can wear if I really need it.

So, what can people tell me to look for that will minimize heat build-up and wick away sweat well? I assume some of the fancy fabric names may be the same under different names for different companies, but which are best - and is wool something I should consider or are my temps to hot?

I guess I'm looking more for fabric options that are best rather than a specific shirt. But when I pin down the actual shirt, I prefer something not gauldy. I'd also prefer something with a LONG zipper because I have found it difficult to get my old stiff body out of these tight shirts I've tried.

BigFloppyLlama

I can't comment on the wicking properties of jerseys as my $15 performance jersey works just as well as my $50 Pearl Izumi one. For the zipper thing though, I'm with you about the long zippers. I really with more companies would offer a full length zipper instead of a 3/4 that seems pretty common. Pearl Izumi usually has at least 50cm zippers on their jerseys and seem to work well.

Robert Gardner

Pearl Izumi would be my choice for you and their Slice Jersey is certainly not gaudy. It has a full zipper which is really nice in hot weather. I think Pearl Izumi is all around the best quality of workmanship and good fit.

TheRCF

Can you tell me what the label says on your performance jersey? Just trying to keep up with what is available for a given price range.

TheRCF

That one looks interesting. I like the full zipper for sure! Did a quick scan of some of their other jerseys. Seems they have at least three approaches to wicking. One is the microsensor. Another is ultrasensor (saw on a more expensive shirt), and PolySENTRIC® mini waffle fabric which says it is soft and comfortable but also more surface area for moisture management.

I'm guessing that, based on price only, Ultra sensor is best, then microsensor, and then PolySentric. Maybe some people can give their experience with them. And I've heard of something called Cool-max (I think). Would be nice to have scientific tests for comparison.

dexmax

I also live in the tropics.. And boy, its really hot... Supposedly, there should be a typhoon today.. ??? I just wonder where it went..?

Anyway, I wear bright colored jerseys (yellow, white) in really hot days. Jerseys w/ a full zipper does help a lot when your climbing.. But I just wear regular jerseys with zippers on the chest. I usually go with the cheaper jerseys ($10~$18) and cheap shorts($15-$20). They work fine... True, the izumis look great, but its all the same..

I also wear a bandana under my helmet, it prevents sweat getting in my eyes.. It can get that hot. On really steep, long hills, I remove my helmet.. I just strap it on my handlebar (ok, this is not a helmet thread.. and its really hot!).

I plan my rides.. I avoid riding between 12pm~2pm. That's the hotest part of the day. Just remember to bring lots of water..

kefin

I have a Castelli "Simple" jersey that's lighter than all the other jerseys I have. The material has a mesh-like design and I suppose in hot weather it'll wick more efficiently and circulate air better. (I don't wear it much because over here in San Francisco it's usually kind of windy and I get cold easily so I prefer jerseys with a tight knit.) It's a bit pricey but I've seen the previous year's inventory sold at a good discount.

-Kevin

BikeInMN

I'm a big fan of the Castelli "Simple" jersey line. They're available in full zip and both short sleeve and sleeveless along with long sleeve but I doubt you'd need one of those. The colors are basic and the design isn't gaudy. I also like the cut much more than the Pearl Izumi stuff although that is just a personal preference on my part.