Altura Kids Sprint Long Sleeve Jersey

The Altura Sprint kids' long sleeved jersey has a full length zip and most of the features found on any adult jersey. Unisex in design, the Sprint is available in either red and black or yellow and black, the colouring is pretty basic and has just small reflective detailing on the collar, shoulder and back pocket.

The Sprint is made from 100% polyester. The inner side has a soft, brushed-cotton feel and the outer is lightly meshed, giving a degree of breathability. Our tester thought the mesh would mean she would be cold when riding but found that her temperature was well regulated in the jersey. The zip lies against a fabric panel, so the jersey could be worn with or without a base layer. The seams are well sewn and lie fairly flat to add to the overall comfort.

Standard features on adult jerseys such as a dropped back with a silicone gripper and three individual back pockets make the Sprint feel just like a sized-down basic adult jersey. Features such as a zip hood, zip pull and heat welded labels haven't been forgotten on this kids' version.

Our tester felt that the cuffs were a little tight to get on and off "but it is good because they don't flap". She found the silicone gripper to be very secure, even when doing pre-ride toe touches as a warm up.

The jersey comes in three sizes covering 5-12 year olds. The 7-9 size tested fitted my tall but slim 9 year old snugly, and she looks like she has a little growth room left before needing to go up a size. I wouldn't say it was 'race fit' but it wasn't unduly flappy either. I'd say it would comfortably fit most children within a broadly average weight range for their age. Altura offer a clear size guide if you are unsure what to buy.

The Sprint jersey washed well at 40 degrees despite the label specifying 30 (oops) and didn't bobble with wear. The silicone retained its grippiness even after multiple washes.

Verdict

Basic zipped jersey for 5-12 year olds, with enough cycling features to make it just like mum or dad's