Etxeondo Trier TX short sleeve jersey

The new Trier TX short sleeve jersey from Basque clothing company Etxeondo is an evolution of the regular Trier we tested two years ago. The design brief for this new jersey has been to improve the fit so it's far more figure-hugging and at the same time more aero than anything they've developed before.

Etxeondo kit is already reasonably figure-hugging; their sizes definitely lean on the small size compared to some brands. This jersey goes a step further though. They've designed the shape of the panels to ensure the jersey sits very flush with the body, especially around the neck and arms. These are areas where any badly designed jerseys or excess fabric can bunch up, but that's not the case with this jersey.

That is because they've incorporated specially shaped panels and different grades of fabric. The black panels have a lower elasticity, and their task is to keep the jersey taut over the skin and provide the shape to give that skin tight fit. There's only a three-quarter length zip because the area of fabric beneath it provides a better fit around the waist. The back of of the waistband has an elastic middle section designed to prevent the jersey shifting about, keeping it all in place.

Following the trend for long seamless sleeves, the Trier TX jersey has long seamless sleeves. I'm not a fan, principally because they don't match up with my now permanent tan lines, and I personally prefer the look of shorter sleeves. They more be more aero, but any gains are going to be tiny at best. You'll get bigger aero gains simply from keeping your head low and riding in the drops.

The jersey is made from a Meryl microfibre fabric with UV protective qualities. I tested the jersey on a recent trip to Majorca and I can vouch for its wicking and sun protection abilities. Flatlock stitching throughout means no seams to cause irritation. You get three good sized pockets plus a small zippered pocket, large enough for some cash, a credit card and your house keys.

This is an excellent jersey with a superb fit, but the sizing is definitely on the small size so I'd urge you to pay close attention to the sizing chart. The close-fitting nature of the jersey is great if you're not a fan of baggy jerseys, and even loaded pockets don't produce that ghastly saggy jersey look. The fit also produces a jersey that is supremely comfort thanks to the carefully shaped panels working to keep the fabric flush against the body.

You don't see many cyclists wearing Etxeondo kit. It's a shame that more people haven't cottoned on to just how good it is, but that also means you're unlikely to spot anyone wearing the same kit as you when out on a sunny Sunday ride.

Verdict

Expensive, but jolly nice and superb fit