Northwave Galaxy Short Sleeve Jersey

While not quite as cutting edge as their Extreme range, Northwave's one-level-down-from-the-top Galaxy clothing is still squarely aimed at the performance end of the market. The short sleeve jersey tested here deploys much of Northwave's considerable list of technologies in an attempt to keep you pedalling hard in comfort.

In the same way as the top jerseys on offer from Northwave, the Galaxy makes use of many small rectangular holes in the arm grippers in order to keep the breathability nice and high. Northwave don't add any grippy silicone on the insides of the sleeves, and claim that this is to reduce you getting uncomfortable in hot conditions - not a problem I've encountered before. However this lack of silicone means that the sleeves ride up the arms rather too easily for my liking.

Other than that, I found the overall fit of this jersey to be good when out on my bike - possibly even slightly better than the top tier jersey I was testing alongside it. The medium provided was well suited to my frame.

In terms of breathability on hot rides, the Galaxy has seen me through rides of all types from spring morning road rides to swelteringly humid mountain bike blasts through the woods. In all instances, it really has kept me as cool as could be reasonably expected, the quasi-mesh back allowing my sweat to vent out easily.

The pockets of the jersey are reasonably deep and there is a secure zipped pocket that I was happy to keep my keys and cash in. The main zip is also solid, and the waist gripper kept the jersey in its place.

For 85 quid, this is a solid performance jersey from Northwave. I certainly couldn't distinguish what tangible benefit you actually receive for the extra £25 you'd have to fork out for the top tier Extreme jersey.

Verdict

Smart racing jersey from Northwave that will keep you cool on hot rides