Altura Podium Elite Thermo Long Sleeve Jersey

The Altura Podium Elite Thermo Long Sleeve Jersey is one of the warmest non-windproof tops I've worn, and thanks to a close race fit it's the perfect companion for those hard cool-weather training rides and early/late season sportives.

The Elite Thermo is great for those rides where it's a bit parky but you don't really need the full monty of a waterproof or windproof jacket – early morning/late evening jaunts at this time of year, or those crisp, still days of autumn and winter.

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The whole jersey is fleece-lined, which traps body heat and keeps you warm, while the front panels and top of the arms use a slightly thicker material, giving a bit of protection from road spray and light drizzle as well as helping to keep cold air out.

It's all very similar to the Altura Podium Elite Thermo Shield Jacket I recently reviewed, but a lightweight version – as in, it doesn't quite offer the same protection as the windproof jacket.

The rear panels are thinner, which allows body heat to escape, and it all works pretty well because you can work hard without being overcome with perspiration.

The jersey is probably best suited to temperatures from, say, 2-3°C up to about 12 or so, which is a pretty good range.

The fit is great, close to the chest and stomach without being full racer tight, and the size chart on Altura's website is a good representation of what you'll get. A dropped tail gives plenty of lower back protection when crouched in the drops, and the front is also curved upwards towards the zip to prevent bunching at the midriff.

Decent length sleeves don't bunch or feel like they are being pulled tight when riding in various positions, plus the narrow cuffs will easily fit inside a pair of winter gloves.

Round the back you'll find a total of six pockets, where three are in the traditional position with one extra either side. They are all a decent depth and hold things like a mini-pump securely. That's only five... Aha, but on the rear of the centre pocket you'll find a zipped valuables holder, ideal for the likes of some cash or a bank card and all but the largest of phones.

Price-wise, at £79.99 it compares well with the competition – it's £20 cheaper than this £100 offering from Chapeau, though pricier than the high scoring Pearl Izumi Elite Thermal. (Though there is a much cheaper option in BTwin's £29.99 LS jersey.)

> Buyer's Guide: The best summer cycling jerseys

I'd still recommend the Altura: as an all-round package it is very good, especially when you take into account the construction and overall feel.

Verdict

Well-designed and well-made three-season jersey with a sensible price tag