This is a long sleeve, mid-weight garment made from practical and hardwearing polyester that continues Altura's reputation for good quality, affordable performance apparel. Our red/black sample cut a dash through gloomy October skies while efficient moisture management ensures a dry inner climate. That said, extending the scream out loud reflectives around the side panels would be a definite plus for negotiating unlit crossroads.
Our medium sized jersey comes up large by anyone else’s standards,and we had enough space for a base layer and thin summer jersey underneath, so you can use it almost as a training jacket on cold, dry winter days – but remember your waterproof just in case the heavens open because the fabric won't keep the rain out. The thin fleece lining feels comfy if you wear it next to your skin while the cut and silicone grippers mean it’ll stay put no matter how low you go on the drops.
Three cavernous rear pockets are thoughtfully designed with elasticated tops, gobbling up an extra water bottle, energy bars and other creature comforts for those long, steady winter miles. You also get a Velcro mount for a Night Vision Light Stick – fibre-optic strip for extra visibility – back there.
Riding briskly in temperatures around the mid teens, you won't get that 'boil in the bag' feel although those of us with a tendency for “running hot” will find the full-length zipper allows precise tailoring of the temperature.
By the same token, this jersey blocks the chills extremely well and resists light rain for about 20 minutes. Ours has enjoyed many green lane jollies, the inevitable brushes with brambles having negligible effect on the fabric's integrity – great for those scenic routes home on the cyclo cross bike.
Verdict
Competent jersey-cum-jacket but reflective sides would improve visibility on unlit roads
road.cc test report
Make and model: Altura Night Vision Long Sleeve Jersey
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
"Traditional long sleeve jersey with the Night Vision treatment producing an essential piece of kit for anyone riding on the road.
Sizes Available: L, M, S, XL, XXL
Colours Available: RED, YELLOW"
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
Rate the product for performance:
7/10
Rate the product for durability:
8/10
Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
7/10
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
7/10
Rate the product for value:
7/10
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? Yes
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes
Age: 37 Height: 1m 81 Weight: 70 kilos
I usually ride: Rough Stuff Tourer Based around 4130 Univega mtb Frameset My best bike is: 1955 Holdsworth Road Path and several others including cross & traditional road
I've been riding for: Over 20 years I ride: Most days I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: cyclo cross, commuting, touring, fixed/singlespeed, mtb,
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