Spring and summer in San Francisco means temperamental weather — it could be 80 degrees and sunny one day, then 50 degrees and foggy the next. Here are four of my favorite jerseys right now that will see you through a huge variety of conditions. And they look pretty cool, too.
Castelli Gabba 2 W
Castelli Gabba 2 W ($180): This jersey immediately comes out when it’s foggy, raining, and/or their is a piping sea breeze blowing off the cold Pacific. Made from Gore Windstopper X-Lite Plus fabric, the jersey is windproof, water-resistant, and warm.
Pair it with some Pearl Izumi Thermal Arm Warmers and a Velocio Radiator Base Layer (you will want to wear a base layer under this as the next-to-skin feel is not the best) and that’s all you need — no jacket required. It has a storm-flap at the back of the grippered-hem to protect you from wheel spray and laser cut drainage holes in the three rear pockets so rain doesn’t pool inside soaking your ride snacks. The high neck is a nice touch to keep cold air from sneaking down inside your jersey.
Note on sizing: as this jersey was designed by and for the pros, I expected a super tight euro race fit so ordered a size up. Don’t. Order your normal jersey size and this will fit you perfectly — you don’t want extra fabric flapping around which not only adds drag but just lets cold air get in underneath.
7Mesh Quantum Jersey
7Mesh Quantum Jersey ($140): This is your everyday workhorse jersey for warm weather riding. It’s made from 100% polyester — no Lycra here — so it feels soft and quickly wicks away moisture while offering UPF 50+ sun protection. And as with everything 7Mesh, the little design details are what makes it extra special — pocket guards in all three rear jersey pockets so your stuff doesn’t spill out when you bomb downhill, two zippered security pockets for valuables or your phone with headphone ports, stylish reflective hits, and a silicone grip dotted hem.
Ten Speed Hero Collage Jersey
Ten Speed Hero Race Fit Collage Jersey ($150): This special Race Cut jersey is a collaboration with French architect Maud Glasel and was inspired by her Parisian surroundings and modern proclivities. The soft against the skin fabric and fun print offers a nice change from your normal unicolor jerseys. The jersey is race fit so I like to wear it on long, sunny days in the saddle where the mesh side panels up the breathability factor.
The silicone grip-lined raw edge long sleeves cut down on drag and are great for stopping the dreaded burn line between your arm sleeves and your jersey. You get three rear pockets with reflective details and a hidden zipper pocket for keeping your keys and money safe.
Ten Speed Hero does a fabulous job on helping you figure out what size to order. They actually brought in a ton of fit models of all sizes and shapes, then matched their measurements to the various jersey and short sizes. You can look at the models and see who you probably resemble the most and then check what size apparel they wear. It’s brilliant.
Pedla Full Gas Aero Jersey
Pedla Full Gas Aero Jersey: I really love the bike apparel coming out of this Australian company. This summer weight jersey made from a dimpled, quick-drying fabric offers plenty of UPF sun protection while cutting down on drag. You get large rear pocket space, reflective details, and silicone grip along the hem. Sadly, this watercolor print is no longer available but the Full Gas Jersey comes in so many other fun prints like camo for the guys.
The Latest From Pearl Izumi
For some other cycling apparel I am wearing this season, you can check out our trip south to San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara.