Shimano S-Phyre Windresistant Jersey

Shimano's top-end S-Phyre Windresistant Jersey represents performance perfection. The fit is tight but well proportioned, with well-thought-out features. Wind resistance is excellent, with the jersey also keeping out rain for a while. You do, however, have to pay a lot for it.

• Pros: Great fit with flat cuffs, lightweight for the warmth
• Cons: Very small sizing, rather expensive

The best testing ground for a winter jersey is, unfortunately, winter. With freezing winds quite common, a good windproof can be enough for most conditions. This long-sleeve jersey from Shimano is very effective at stopping that wind with the brushed internal fabric providing the perfect amount of warmth.

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Shimano's most intriguing feature is the 37°C temperature regulation technologies. This is essentially an attempt to keep your body at a constant temperature. I'm not sure how Shimano has done it, but I've been comfortable when riding at a moderate pace in 2°C and strong winds. In those conditions, I've paired it with Shimano's S-Phyre baselayer (£69.99), S-Phyre gloves (£99.99) and a normal summer jersey.

Okay, I admit, this is a rather expensive outfit, but it's kit that works so well I'd be happy to both recommend it and buy it myself. The other thing is, it never really felt like I was wearing a ton of winter kit; not feeling bogged down by clothing yet being warm is really rather nice.

The jersey is designed to be tight. My medium is aero, even on my 5ft 7in, 62kg climber's frame (it's not me in the photos). The fabric undoubtedly helps here, with stretchy fabric conforming perfectly around my shoulders, chest and arms. The hem is really grippy, and cut to fit perfectly on the bike. I did find the waist to be slightly loose compared with the rest of the jersey, but I prefer that to it being overly tight. One note on sizing is that I'd usually buy a size small, so I'd suggest sizing up for a slightly looser fit.

The sleeves are nicely long with the flat cuffs easily covering my wrists. The cuffs are designed to be used with the S-Phyre gloves and the integration here is excellent. The stitching on the sleeves is the only place it contacts the skin, but I experienced no irritation.

The collar, too, has a good length to it and sits snugly around the neck to prevent cold air getting in. I also wore a snood for some rides and didn't find the collar restrictive at all.

Shimano also advertises this as being water repellent. I'd say that although the jersey sees off most of the rain, you'll need a proper rain jacket for full waterproofing.

The finishing touches are what you'd expect for such an investment. The zippers of both the full front and also rear valuables pocket are smooth and easy to use on the fly. The rubber toggles on the zippers aren't the tidiest solution, but they're very effective, especially when you're wearing gloves. That rear valuables pocket is large enough for an iPhone 6s in a protective case and with enough room for keys too.

The main pockets are roomy and deep, with the stretchy fabric holding larger items securely. There's a small pocket inside the left pocket too, which I wasn't a massive fan of. That's the side I normally keep some food in, so it tended to get in the way when I put my bar back in.

The rear also features a massive reflective strip for extra visibility.

Washing the jersey, I've been careful not to let it slip into the tumble drier as Shimano warns against this. It's come up smelling fresh every time, washed at 30°C.

> Buyer's Guide: 10 of the best winter cycling jerseys

In terms of value, it's hard to argue that you're getting a bargain here, but I would say you're getting what you pay for. The Sportful Fiandre Ultimate Windstopper Jacket is one of the closest comparable designs at £185, but you can find it discounted heavily online. The Sportful is also available in two high-vis colours, whereas the S-Phyre comes in black only. It is £40 cheaper than the Assos iJ.haBu, but we're certainly still at the premium end of the scale.

If you have the cash, though, or you find it discounted somewhere, I'd strongly recommend it.

Verdict

A premium product with premium performance