Funkier Stream Gents Short Sleeve Active Jersey

The Funkier Stream Gents Short Sleeve Active Jersey offers a decent specification for modest money and performs surprisingly well. I have two minor gripes, though: the fabric feels more synthetic than other blends, and the waterproof pocket can leave a localised clammy patch and 'sweaty' contents.

• Pros: High spec and decent overall performance for the money
• Cons: Synthetic feel, waterproof pocket lining can induce a clammy patch against the skin

You might have guessed from my opening statement that the Stream is 100% polyester. There's nothing groundbreaking here, but nonetheless the specification is pleasing.

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For starters, it has inbuilt UPF50+ protection – always welcome on longer rides in very hot weather, though no substitute for high factor sun creams – and it has offered decent protection from the sun's rays on rides around the 50-mile mark.

The 'net' (mesh) fabric, coupled with a full-length zipper and 'Quick Dry active protection', promise optimal ventilation and tuneable climate control.

The zipper also features retro-reflective detailing, which keeps things conspicuous at dusk/beyond. And if fluoro yellow's not your bag, the Stream also comes in black.

Pockets

Round the back we have the traditional three-pocket layout. These are generous enough for bottles, bananas, mini-pumps and so on, and although it's a road garment, I've blasted along bumpy bridleways without anything coming close to being ejected.

The middle incorporates a zipped waterproof pocket. This would suggest an obvious home for money, smartphones and other valuables, but as Steve found with the F-Ride Active, the contents can get 'sweaty' – as can your back underneath. (I addressed this by parking my Backbottle water bottle in the open pocket underneath.)

Cut/sizing

The Stream is snug but not second-skin close, so doesn't draw unwelcome attention to minor lumps and bumps we might be self-conscious about.

Our medium was refreshingly generous around the shoulders, and the sleeves slightly longer than many in my collection. I'm a big fan of raglan sleeves, which in my experience offer superior freedom of movement and comfort.

Being proportionately short in the torso, things looked and felt right here, too.

Performance

The relatively thin, summer-weight fabric, vented panels and full-length zipper make for an airy and generally arid inner climate.

Polyesters begin wicking once the inner climate reaches a certain temperature. I found that within about 30 minutes' riding at a decent pace a misty clamminess became apparent at the armpits, chest and lower back, after which the fibres began wicking and maintaining a predominantly dry, comfortable state.

Need more air? Simply drop the sensibly proportioned zipper tag. This has been easily operated in liner type gloves, and at around 20mph.

On a couple of occasions I got caught by a short, sharp shower without a jacket, but with a gentle breeze I was predominantly dry given 20 minutes and a moderate breeze.

I wore ours for three consecutive days to test odour management. By the third, some mild funkiness was apparent around the armpits but not in wallpaper-stripping territory. Like most polyesters, it's easily chucked in the machine wash at 30 degrees and emerges looking and smelling fresh.

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Surprisingly there's no sign of bobbling or fraying, despite getting snagged on meandering brambles and low hanging branches.

Value

Specification and overall performance are very competitive. It's a tenner cheaper than the dhb Blok and a good deal better than the Boardman Relaxed Fit Jersey, although B'Twin's 700 Cycling Jersey will give it a good run for your hard-earned.

Conclusion

Overall, the Funkier Stream is a capable summer-weight model that offers a nice mix of features for a modest price. The fabric does feel decidedly manmade, which may be a deal-breaker for some, and although a nice idea the waterproof valuables pocket can leave kit clammy, but otherwise it's a decent, well-specced summer jersey.

Verdict

Nice budget jersey with decent fit and features, but waterproof pocket is a mixed blessing