The Sugoi RS Zero jersey is a really good addition to any winter wardrobe. It's windproof too, which gives it an extra edge.
This is an impressive thermal long-sleeved jersey, with soft interior and wind resistant outer. The way it crosses between the realms of jacket and jersey make it perfect for crossing from winter into spring.
Made from 88% polyester and 12% elastane, the pro-fit design has lots of movability. This is enhanced by the extra elastic along the drop-tail, so it fits extremely well over base layers without digging in. The outer is really smooth, while the inside feels softer. The jersey feels lovely through and through and very well made. It's slightly heavy and thick, giving it a good level of warmth.
There are windproof panels on the chest and arms giving extra protection against the elements, once more leaving you wondering if it's more jacket than jersey. I cycled in temperatures of 2 °C up to 8 °C and only sometimes wore a baselayer. It's exceptionally warm.
Sugoi have two levels of its Firewall fabric technology, of which the Firewall 180 here is the lighter version. They claim it offers great wind protection while allowing good breathability. And it really works in practice; I never felt too hot or too cold.
The rear has three pockets that are all a fairly decent size. Two pockets sit side by side with the third sitting over the top of one of the other pockets, making it slightly smaller. This limits bulky items in either of these pockets otherwise it gets quite uncomfortable.
The collar sits high and close to your neck which is a great feature when riding in a headwind. I found the cuffs very snug too. They offered good stretch which added to the comfort when moving about.
With a good hem grip, the jersey stays put when riding in any position. It also has some small reflective accents which add to higher visibility.
All in, it's a very good mid-weight jersey. It can be worn over a base layer as a jacket or by itself with, say, a waterproof jacket over the top. With the RS Zero jersey Sugoi have managed to create a warm and versatile piece of clothing.
Verdict
Comfortable, versatile and lovely jersey; it's become a staple in my wardrobe
road.cc test report
Make and model: Sugoi RS Zero LS Jersey Womens
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
The product is aimed at women cyclists for winter riding. Sugoi say: "The pinnacle in performance thermal long sleeve riding jersey, featuring advanced fabrics and detailing for comfort during cold weather rides".
In my experience, they are spot on.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
Windproof Firewall 180 chest and arm panels with breathable mid-zero thermal insulation in the back
Ergonomic collar and sleeve construction for a contoured ride position fit
Full length zipper for ventilation
3 rear pockets for storing ride essentials
Rate the product for quality of construction:
10/10
The jersey feels very well made.
Rate the product for performance:
10/10
I was kept warm in a range of temperatures and feel the jersey performed very well.
Rate the product for durability:
9/10
Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
9/10
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
10/10
The elastane really adds to the comfort overall.
Rate the product for value:
8/10
The price tag is higher than other long sleeve jerseys, however this one has a lot on offer including good wind resistance.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
The product exceeded my expectations and preformed remarkably well.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
I liked the comfort and the wind protection offered.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
Nothing.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? Yes
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes
Age: 34 Height: 158cms Weight: 61kg
I usually ride: Giant defy My best bike is:
I've been riding for: Under 5 years I ride: A few times a week I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, commuting, sportives, general fitness riding, mtb,
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