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dhb Diffuser Short Sleeve Jersey

7
£39.99

VERDICT:

7
10
If you want a good value jersey you can throw on and forget, you'll want the Diffuser.
Weight: 
169g

At road.cc every product is thoroughly tested for as long as it takes to get a proper insight into how well it works. Our reviewers are experienced cyclists that we trust to be objective. While we strive to ensure that opinions expressed are backed up by facts, reviews are by their nature an informed opinion, not a definitive verdict. We don't intentionally try to break anything (except locks) but we do try to look for weak points in any design. The overall score is not just an average of the other scores: it reflects both a product's function and value – with value determined by how a product compares with items of similar spec, quality, and price.

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dhb's Diffuser jersey has full bodied feature set and offers a simple design at the lower price point. How does all this fare and is it a quality piece of kit?

My test jersey was a small. The fit is a mid-point; not body hugging aero like the technical race jerseys of late but still a close fit without any excess to catch the wind. The whole jersey has a large amount of stretch to it, allowing the fit to mould around the wearer to an extent, without appearing too eager.

Laced with features, the Diffuser is a culmination of the last few years' clothing advancements. Features include a zipped rear pocket, atop the three rear pockets, with a waterproof liner so it's useful for your phone or some cash. A silicone gripper at the waist prevents the jersey riding up the chest during riding. There are reflective strips at the seams of the rear panel and finally, new synthetic fibres to wick moisture and which provide the adaptable stretch fit. There is no doubt that dhb and parent company Wiggle, have used their expertise and experience in the market to create a great value, utilitarian jersey.

On the bike, it performs to the script. I wasn't blown away by it but I wasn't let down either, the jersey simply got the job of being a jersey done. I was impressed by the quality of the microfibre which provided good wicking performance and after a few wears the jersey still smells usually fresh. This is what the Diffuser is really, a no fuss jersey that gets the job done without expecting too much praise.

Verdict

I can't say much there is much wrong with the dhb Diffuser and for £39.99 the value - considering the feature set - is undeniable. For those not concerned about what back-story or prestige there jersey has and simply wants something they can throw on and forget, you'll want the Diffuser.

road.cc test report

Make and model: dhb Diffuser Short Sleeve Jersey

Size tested: Small Red

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?

'A high performance cycling jersey with a soft, high-stretch microfibre construction for an unrestrictive form fit. With mesh vents and a long front zip, the Diffuser is the perfect choice for staying cool and looking great on high paced summer road rides'

I'd sort of agree, although it doesn't sit at the top end of 'high-performance'

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

Aerodynamic Form fit

Lightweight-stretch, breathable microfibre fabrics

High wicking and odour resistant fabric treatment for extended dryness and freshness

Mesh underarm ventilation panels

Durable 3M Reflective detailing front and back

3 rear drop pockets

1 zipped rear pocket with a waterproof, sweat resistant membrane lining

20cm neck zip

Custom dhb Silicone gripper at rear hem to prevent ride-up

Rate the product for quality of construction:
 
7/10

It's a well designed mix of fibres that are well constructed.

Rate the product for performance:
 
6/10

Didn't blow me away but didn't let me down either.

Rate the product for durability:
 
7/10

Has been through the wash a couple of times and comes out smelling fresh after sweaty rides.

Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
 
7/10

It's a tidy fit with no tight spots or seams to interfere

Rate the product for value:
 
9/10

A strong, full-bodied feature set for under £40 I think presents great value.

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

As a riding jersey, allowing you to focus on the riding, I can't fault it.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

The water-proof zipped pocket is going that extra step.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

A bit boring.

Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.

Would you consider buying the product? Yes.

Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes.

Overall rating: 7/10

About the tester

Age: 25  Height: 184cm  Weight: 68kg

I usually ride: Giant TCR Advanced 1  My best bike is: Giant TCR Advanced 1

I've been riding for: Under 5 years  I ride: Every day  I would class myself as: Semi pro

I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, time trialling, cyclo cross, club rides, mtb,

 

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