dhb have really come a long way in the few years since it was launched as a clothing brand by online retailer Wiggle, and the Blade Windslam long sleeve jersey is a fine example of how well designed and keenly priced their clothing is.
An Italian Lombardia 235g Roubaix fabric is used in the construction of the jersey which has a remarkably soft feel next to the skin. To live up to its Windslam name there's a windproof membrane on the chest and outer arms panels so that the part of you facing into the wind is well protected.
And it really does work. Go out in the stiffest breeze in this compared to a regular long sleeve jersey and you really notice the difference. On recent rides I've been wearing the Windslam with a short sleeve merino base layer and this has been a good combination for current conditions.
Of course, current conditions seem to swing wildly from one day to the next, and one particular brisk tempo ride I could feel the early signs of overheating. Handily dhb have thought of this and there are two discreet zipped mesh-lined vents on the chest, along with two mesh-lined vertical vents on the back of the jacket, to prevent you overheating.
There is always the option of just opening up the full-length zip of course, but I found the two front vents, small though they look, provided just enough entrance for cool air that I was able to regulate my core temperature nicely.
The fit is described as 'form fit' and in essence that means the medium I tested was a comfortable if slightly generous fit. It wasn't overly snug or restrictive with good room in the arms and body. You could wear a couple of thicker layers underneath. The good fit extends to the high collar with an integrated zip guard, good length sleeves and waist drawstrings.
You get three pockets around the back with a waterproof zipped pocket placed outside on the central pocket. There are holes to thread your headphone cables through if you like to listen to music when you're cycling. Reflective details are found on the chest, back and arms and the logos are reflective.
Everyone needs a solid and reliable winter jersey and at £64 (as it is currently listed on the Wiggle website) you really can't go wrong. It's every bit as good as more expensive offerings and is the ideal top for the autumn weather.
Verdict
Really good winter jersey with great wind protection and a comfortable fit. All at a great price too.
road.cc test report
Make and model: DHB Blade Windslam 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?
dhb form fit, Roubaix Lycra jersey with windproof front membrane and ventilation zippers. Designed for long hard riding in colder winter temperatures.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
The Blade jersey is an extension of the winter VAEON Zero bib tights. The majority of the Jersey is made from the luxuriously soft and powerfully stretchy Italian Lombardia 235g Roubaix fabric. The brushed fibres trap air to
insulate the rider against the cold. The Elastane content and superb construction of the fabric give this garment a durable form fit. The added protection in this garment comes from the front facing wind proof panels . A breathable yet windproof membrane maintains stretch for close fitting but cuts out the cold wind. The chest and outer arm panels use the wind proof membrane, whilst those panels exposed to less chill factor (the back panel and under arm) are not membraned so that overheating can be prevented.
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
Rate the product for performance:
8/10
It performs brilliantly in the current autumn season with wildly changeable weather and copes in the strongest and coldest wind. Ventilation ports help regulate temperature.
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
7/10
Fit is good, if a little generous. The high collar is nice as are the good length arms and cuffs.
Rate the product for value:
8/10
It's currently on offer at £64 making it a steal.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.
Would you consider buying the product? Yes.
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes.
Age: 31 Height: 180 Weight: 67
I usually ride: My best bike is:
I've been riding for: 10-20 years I ride: Every day I would class myself as: Expert
I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, time trialling, cyclo cross, commuting, touring, mtb,
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