Cycling jersey

Craft Elite jersey - pocket

Craft Elite jersey - construction

Polaris' Outlaw jersey is primarily a MTB top but can be pressed into commuting and casual use too, meaning it's pretty versatile. However, the slightly unusual cut and its tendency to pick up whiffs mark it down as day-to-day wear.

If you're looking for a top that combines bike performance with a bit of retro and off-the-bike chic then you could do a lot worse than the beautifully crafted Wallaroo long sleeve jersey from Canadian cloth-meisters Sugoi. It's much too warm for sunny Summer days but perfect for those evening pub rides, and one of the comfiest tops I've tried in ages.

The b-Twin range is Decathon's are no frills budget garments aimed at novices but there’s a fair bit of cheer for seasoned riders low on their dough or just looking for turbo trainer slavery or spinning class garb. Made from tight knit polyester based fabric it feels quite thin and extremely tactile-very similar to that of a mid weight base layer. Cut is a fraction looser than premium brands but none the worse for it and a choice of subtle but attractive colours suits all moods and most wardrobes.

Endura’s Baa Baa Merino Tech Jersey combines fine gauge merino wool panels for the front, sleeves and lower back, with perforated merino and lycra panels for the upper and mid-back and armpits to improve ventilation.

Available in a choice of blue/grey or red/grey colour schemes, Sugoi’s hotshot II bridges the gap between summer jersey and winter jacket surprisingly well. It’s made from micro fibre polyester, andh credit where it’s due, the “fino therm” material with flat seams and fleece lining is extremely tactile against the skin.

The Swift jersey from Rapha is a crossover between the urban/messenger range and their road race oriented garments; available only in black, the design incorporates a matt black panel sewn onto the chest, along with a multitude of swifts in flight in black velvet swooping across the jersey, which give rise to the jersey’s name.

In a game of word association dhb’s “Psyborg” jersey prompted “Abdujaparov”; it’s a design you’ll either love or loathe but earned a fair few admiring glances, makes a welcome change from trade jerseys and continues the dhb’s reputation for well made, well priced garments.

When it comes to offering low-cost clothing, DHB have been untouchable over the past few years, and their new Knowle range sees them moving into more high end territory.