Cafe du Cycliste Women's Yolande Merino Jersey

If you're looking to add some luxury to your cool-weather cycling wardrobe, then Cafe du Cycliste's Yolande merino jersey is just the ticket – warm, comfortable and well fitting. It's a signature performance piece from CdC, with the styling, features and technical performance (plus high price tag) to match. It's versatile too – the soft handle of the fabric on the inside means you can wear it with or without a baselayer, while its slim cut allows you to wear a gilet or jacket on top if needed – so it will serve you virtually throughout the year in the British climate.

The Yolande is made from a proprietary Italian fabric that is in fact only 24% merino (and 72% polyester/4% polyamide). However, it has more the appearance (and odour resistance) of wool, alongside the benefits of manmade fibres, which include good wicking properties and better durability. As such, the medium to heavyweight material is fast-drying if you get caught in a shower, and it does a fine job of keeping you dry when you're pushing the pace. Of course, this breathability is aided by the lack of windproofing, and on chilly spring days I've needed to team the Yolande with a long-sleeve baselayer and gilet.

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I like the figure-hugging cut (it's not me in the photos, by the way) and the decent length in both body and sleeves. Silicone gripper in the hem keeps the drop tail in place, while the sleeve loops – integrated Lycra half gloves – extend right down over your knuckles. I'm not sure if I'm sold on these as they're superfluous when it's warmer and a bit bulky when pushed up at the wrist, and when it's cold you'd be wearing gloves anyway... But they are comfy in use because they don't dig in at the palm.

Another quibble is with the collar – I'd prefer it to be taller and snugger, and the button-down flap might be a style point but prevents you easily unzipping to regulate your temperature.

As you'd expect with high-end attire, attention to detail is exemplary. The sturdy zip is backed by a broad storm flap to keep out draughts, and the cam-lock zipper is easy to grab with gloved fingers.

> Buyer's Guide: Spring cycling clothing

The three rear pockets incorporate a mini-pump sleeve and extra zipped pocket for keys/cash, and the side ones are slanted for easier access. They're not overly generous in capacity though – you can only stuff a very lightweight waterproof in. The right-hand pocket has a cable port with a corresponding exit hole at the base of the collar, to keep cables tucked away. (Unlike the men's Yolande, there is no chest pocket.) Scotchlite reflective strips on the rear, neck and sleeves enhance your visibility.

The Yolande's appearance is a matter of opinion. CdC calls it 'elegant', while my partner observed, "You look like an extra from Star Trek." Then, on spotting the elbow patches, added, "Crossed with a geography teacher." I corrected him, "It's Euro chic, don't you know!"

The stitched shoulder panels are slightly padded, handy should you ever need to shoulder your bike. It also comes in black or deep blue (the latter colour is currently discounted to £105).

Verdict

Premium quality, warm and distinctively stylish wool-mix jersey for near-year-round wear