ION Helia 3/4 sleeve jersey

If you want a casual cycle top that stands out from the crowd then look no further than the Ion Women's Helia 3/4 sleeve jersey. The styling is clearly derived from surfwear, and while we certainly wouldn't team it with Lycra it goes well with a slim-fit pair of casual riding shorts. It's ideal to wear if you're touring as it's light, packs down small, has integrated anti-pong technology and looks good off the bike.

Despite the three-quarter length sleeves that reach just below the elbow, this is a top that's designed to keep you cool on hot, sunny days. Testing it on holiday in Spain it worked a treat, thanks to the choice of fabrics. The sleeves and back are constructed from a light and breathable 'pique mesh' polyester, which allows lots of ventilation and wicks well. Meanwhile the front is a lighter weight 85% polyester, 15% cotton Jacquard mesh with larger holes in the mesh, which dries extremely quickly and feels nice and soft against the skin.

The sleeves and back are treated with an antibacterial fabric treatment to help reduce the pong usually associated with polyester tops, and it certainly didn't smell too bad after a day of sweaty riding.

The fit is fairly loose which adds to its coolness credentials, and the generous body length means there's no risk of exposing your back even if you're stretched out on the drops. It is cut just slightly longer at the back than the front. A slight niggle is that the neck is quite low at the back compared to traditional cycle jerseys, so make sure you slap on the sunblock. While it's designed to keep you cool, it also works as an extra layer if the temperature dips.

The Helia has some nifty features. There's a microfibre glasses wipe sewn inside the front hem on one side, and on the other side is a discreet zipped pocket perfect for stashing cash and a credit card. We weren't sure about the large Ion badge sewn onto the front of the top, but we didn't notice it once wearing it and it didn't snag on pack shoulder straps. The ion logo on the back and the glasses symbol on the front are both reflective.

The Helia also comes in a red colour scheme, called Hibiscus, as well as the Lavender pictured.

Verdict

Surf chick style jersey ideal for long, hot days in the saddle when you want to stay cool and keep the sun off