Saikel Chevrons Cap

The classic cap is a simple and often overlooked garment in the cyclist's wardrobe, but whatever the weather it has its uses; and if it has a great cut and fit like this Saikel Chevrons Cap then all the better.

• Pros: Stiff peak, different size options, comfortable
• Cons: Not the most breathable

This cap is part of the Chevrons range which includes men's and women's jerseys and bib shorts, and the option of colour coding it all with navy arm and leg warmers if you want to go for the whole 'outfit' look. Oh, and socks.

> Buy this online here

Unlike many manufacturers Saikel has created the cap in three sizes: small (-56cm), medium (56-60cm) and large (60+cm) rather than going down the one-size-fits-all route. I found the medium a perfect close fit without being too tight around the rim.

Without having to cover a huge circumference range, the material doesn't need to be that pliable so it hasn't had any elastane added to the cotton. This gives a more relaxed feel to the rest of the cap as it isn't stretched across your head.

It's reasonably breathable as long as the breeze is flowing over your head but the fabric did soak up the sweat quite a bit when winching up steep, hot climbs. It soon dries on the descent though.

Keeping everything in place is a small piece of elastic at the rear centre.

When new, the fabric felt a little starchy but after a few wears and washes it soon softened up and now feels very comfortable indeed.

The peak has remained stiff, something that I like as it doesn't get overwhelmed by sweat or rain, and lets any liquid flow along it before dripping off well in front of your face. It's a decent enough length to keep the sun out of your eyes too, and if you want to fold the peak up it stays put.

There are quite a few ways of cutting the material to create a cap and Saikel has gone for three sections for the main head part, each one running from front to back. It gives a good shape plus there are very few seams to irritate when worn under a helmet. The two main seams are so flat they are barely noticeable anyway.

It's a good cap then, plus it's pretty good value for money too. Saikel is selling directly to the public at the moment and on its website the Chevrons cap costs just £15, which isn't bad.

> Read more road.cc reviews of cycling headwear here

The FWE Fred Unisex Cap is three quid less at rrp, and Lusso's Zigzag is £10.99, while Primal's Neon Crush Cap is the same price and weight, but many are more expensive.

The Chapeau! Cotton Cap is £19.99, for example, Craft's Monument is £20, and Café Du Cycliste's Sardine £25.

For the overall quality, fit and performance I'd say the Chevrons cap is well worth the outlay.

Verdict

A classic cap that is well made with a great fit for a very sensible price