Saikel Chevrons Jersey (women's)

What a summer it has been so far for cycling, and what a perfect opportunity to test some great looking kit from new brand Saikel. With the brand only launching last year, I was unsure what to expect, but I have to say I was rather impressed with this Chevrons Jersey – although it could do with a few tweaks to help justify what is a pretty high price tag.

• Pros: Design, comfort, waterproof zip pocket
• Cons: Price, high pockets hard to reach

My first impressions of the jersey were fantastic. The simple but effective design puts it on par with brands such as Rapha and Morvelo for looks, in my opinion (it's also available in a subtle but equally pleasing to the eye, 'mint' colour). The fabric feels lightweight and very comfortable against your skin.

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With the jersey manufactured in Italy, it was no surprise to find that I needed a medium rather than the small I would usually opt for. It's a slim fit without being skin tight and generally fitted me well, although I did find while in a riding position that there was some extra room in the front around the neck/chest.

Saikel says that the Chevrons is designed to be a three-season jersey worn throughout spring, summer and autumn, perhaps with a baselayer and arm warmers for cooler occasions. Mesh side panels help to keep you cool on hot days and the main body wicks away sweat effectively while also being lightweight and incredibly quick drying. However, it is not an out and out summer jersey, evident when riding in the recent 25+ degree weather we have been experiencing in the UK, when I was more comfortable in a summer-specific jersey such as the Rapha Souplesse Lightweight Jersey.

Without being able to test it in cooler weather currently, I do think that Saikel is right and I would happily pair this jersey with a baselayer or arm warmers and wear it most of the year round.

The raw cut sleeves are a nice touch and not only look good but feel extremely comfortable and reduce the possibility of chafing from seams and grippers.

The three rear pockets with a reflective trim are unusually deep for a women's jersey. Although great for carrying snacks and spares, it means they do sit quite high on the back of the jersey and are difficult to access while riding.

Having become frustrated by several test jerseys without zip pockets recently, I was pleased to find that Saikel's offering has one. It's a big one too, with plenty of space for a phone, small wallet and keys. Better still, the zip pocket is also waterproof, meaning its contents didn't get sweaty or soggy during my rides.

With its rrp of £95 – a price to rival Rapha – I was expecting big things of this jersey. While it could still use a few little tweaks to match Rapha in fit and performance, and to fully justify the price, I love the design and really enjoyed testing it and would definitely consider buying it myself. On the other hand, Rapha's Core range undercuts Saikel in price and offers great fit and performance, as does the Santini Women's Volo Short Sleeve Jersey I recently tested.

> Buyer's Guide: 20 of the best summer cycling jerseys

Overall, though, if you are looking for a good quality, stylish all-rounder of a jersey, the Saikel Chevrons is certainly worth considering.

Verdict

An exciting first offering from a new brand and a great jersey for everyday use