Rapha Women's Souplesse Lightweight Jersey II

Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

Rapha says: "For fast and scorching summer miles

"Inspired by the work of artist Bridget Riley this special edition cycling jersey features a geometric pattern based on the principles of rhythm and repetition.

"Tested in the hottest and most humid temperatures, the Lines Women's Souplesse Lighyweight Jersey II is the lightest jersey in the Souplesse range.

"Using the same new high-performance, high-wicking fabrics as our Pro Team jerseys, the jersey is light and breathable and has a good stretch which creates a flattering fit.

"Designed for your hottest rides, the mesh-lined collar has been reshaped to increase airflow and a new perforated centre-back stripe helps to keep you cool. A new mesh yoke at the rear and mesh-lined pockets are designed to increase ventilation.

"A semi-sheer fabric on the sleeves feels invisible in the hottest conditions and helps to reduce stark tan lines and a protective finish reduces the absorption of sunlight. Soft lightweight grippers on the cuffs and at the hem keep the jersey in place, and a bonded front hem ensures maximum streamlining.

"Featuring a new, expandable pocket design to create greater space for carrying food and essentials and a zipped valuables pocket on the rear.

"When worn with other products from the Lines collection featuring the same fluid print, a layered appearance creates an optical illusion of its own."

It does everything Rapha claims, and is cool and breathable.

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

Rapha lists these features:

Proprietary, lightweight stretch fabric creates a close, streamlined fit

Semi-sheer mesh sleeves save weight and keep you cool in the hottest conditions

High-wicking, breathable fabric allows moisture to disperse from the skin

A central strip of laser-cut perforations on the back aid ventilation

Expandable back pockets maintain shape when loaded with spares or food

YKK's lightest VISLON® zipper

Very well made and some lovely hidden details.

Stayed cool and comfortable on some long, hot and humid rides.

No problems so far.

I found the close cut fit comfortable and flattering.

I wore a small which fitted perfectly (I'm an 8-10). Because of the stretchy fabric, you can probably afford to go down a size if you're unsure.

It's called a lightweight jersey for a reason!

Extremely comfortable to ride in, with no annoying riding up from the hem or excess material.

At £120 it is pricey, but worth it.

How easy is the product to care for? How did it respond to being washed?

Washed at 30 degrees with no problems.

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

Very well. It kept me cool on hot rides and had ample pocket space for food and other essentials.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

Incredibly light and some lovely hidden details.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

Honestly don't have any complaints.

Use this box to explain your score

It does an excellent job of keeping you cool and comfortable on long, hot and humid rides. It's also light, stylish and comfortable with plenty of pocket space. I can't find anything to complain about, unless you dislike the pattern.