This is a high-tech, slim fitting race jersey that's great for hot weather performance riding.
First, let's deal with the cut which Louis Garneau call their Next to Skin cut. They offer each jersey in one of four different fits: Relaxed, Semi-relaxed, Profit and Next to Skin. As the name implies, the Next to Skin cut is intended to be body hugging with no excess to flap around as you ride, and it's cut fairly short in the body so there are no creases when you're bent over in the saddle. If you're after a jersey that's in any way relaxed, look elsewhere. This is a full-on racy option.
The Mondo Evo uses a bunch of different fabrics, each for a specific purpose. The main body fabric is called Mondo and it's a mix of micro-polyester and spandex so it's very stretchy. That means you don't feel too trussed up despite that close fit.
The shoulders are made from a fabric called Speed Tech which is a nylon/Lycra mix and even more stretchy, while the side and under-arm panels are Power Mesh. You can't quite see through those panels but they do let plenty of fresh air in and dry very fast if you get sweaty.
Then, those red bands at the ends of the sleeves are made from Lazer Rev fabric. It's a lot like a material you see around the hems of many high-end shorts these days; it's supportive and it doesn't fray despite the fact that there's no hem there.
The front zip isn't full length but it is 15in (38cm) long – that's almost down to the belly button on me – so you can let in lots of air on the climbs. You get the customary three pockets at the rear, one with a hole for an earphones lead, and there's reflective binding and print back there for a bit of extra safety. A silicone gripper keeps the hem from inching up and the jersey offers UPF/SPF 50 to look after your skin.
The Mondo feels very cool in hot weather, particularly thanks to those mesh panels, and it drags sweat away from your body and disperses it well. Durability is good too. After a couple of months of heavy use there's a small patch above one pocket that's looking a little worn where a mini pump or gel has rubbed against the fabric, and a small section of the reflective print looks a bit cracked, presumably from washing. Those are really minor concerns, though.
I like the white version but if, like me, you're incapable of keeping anything white for long, you might want to go for the black/yellow option instead.
This jersey was originally priced at £105 but Evans are currently selling it for £79.99 – a very good price for the quality you are getting here.
Verdict
Slim-fitting hot weather jersey with plenty of reflectivity.
road.cc test report
Make and model: Louis Garneau Mondo Evo 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?
Here's the full write up from Louis Garneau:
"The Louis Garneau Mondo Evo Jersey is one of the most technical pieces of apparel we offer, the Mondo jersey is constructed of 4 fabrics, each specifically implemented for a different reason. Power Mesh Vents are designed for maximum ventilation that is comfortable and chafe-free. Mondo is a superlight fabric for a second-skin feel. Speed Tech improves aerodynamics, and Lazer Rev offers compression and muscle support.
Fabric: Mondo, Speed Tech, Power Mesh and Lazer RevFabric
Properties: Cuts wind resistance/cooling zones/muscle support
Cut: Next to skin fit
Sleeve Length: Short
Fastening: 38cm invisible zip
Pockets: 3 back pockets with reflector
Reflectivity: Front and back reflective logos
Ventilation: 38cm invisible zip
Protection: UPF/SPF 50"
The front logo is tiny - just a small patch. The sleeves are fairly long as short sleeves go.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
The main fabric is called Mondo. This is what Louis Garneau say about it:
"* Stretchable knit with the unique ability to stretch and recover its shape like no other fiber.
* Because of the multi-filament polyester construction, this material is known for softness and comfort.
* This knit has a UPF/SPF 50.
* Stretchy knit: 86% micro-polyester, 14% spandex
* 130 g/m2, 3.8 oz/sq yd
* Like all knits, it is recommended to avoid abrasive materials and surfaces."
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
Rate the product for performance:
9/10
Rate the product for durability:
7/10
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
8/10
Rate the product for value:
7/10
Not cheap as jerseys go, but a good price considering the quality.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
Does its job really well.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
Both the cut and the fabrics.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? Yes
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes
Age: 41 Height: 190cm Weight: 75kg
I usually ride: My best bike is:
I've been riding for: Over 20 years I ride: Most days I would class myself as: Expert
I regularly do the following types of riding: time trialling, commuting, club rides, sportives, general fitness riding,
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