Living up to the name, Funkier has a funky design here. And as a lightweight summer jersey, the Hueza Gents Elite S/S Jersey isn't half bad, either.
It's made almost entirely of a slightly elasticated mesh, which hugs the body really effectively while providing superb ventilation. It's nigh-on perfect for warm and humid weather, and makes a smart outfit matched to the Hueza bib shorts, reviewed here.
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It's topped and tailed with an elastic waistband and arm grippers, which work as well as anyone could want at retaining the extremities of the jersey to the body. Teamed with an athletic, almost aero cut, it's certainly a jersey for hot and fast days in the saddle.
Funkier has adorned the Hueza jersey with fluoro green trim, which I think looks stunning in both black and white colourways. It's a tasteful use of fluoro, which you don't get very often.
The back features three pockets, each of ample size. They're certainly not big, but if you can carry the odd thing like a spare tube in a saddlebag, as I tend to, then you'll have no issues. Also attached to the centre pocket is a zipped, water-resistant fourth pocket, designed for keys and valuables. As a reference point, it'll fit all but the largest iPhone.
In practice, on hot rides this is one of the best jerseys I've ridden in – whether on a shorter 60km loop or a longer day in the saddle. It's like wearing a second skin – which is ideal for optimum cooling.
The one downside I should just point out, which I usually find with all lightweight jerseys, is the delicate nature of the fabric. The seams are fine, but the meshed material is prone to nicking on untreated wood, for example, and I have my doubts about whether it'll last a whole season, let alone be ready to go on into the next year as well.
> Check out our guide to the best summer cycling jerseys
For the time being, it washes out well, but I'm sticking to a delicate cold wash where possible (not ideal when hot weather causes a lot of sweating!) to boost its longevity. The sizing is about right, though you could go down a size if you want a pro-tight fit. Otherwise, go with your usual and you'll be fine.
For a jersey of this nature there's usually a small premium to pay for the lightweight fabrics involved, but at £49.99, this is very well priced. As long as it holds up under regular use and regular sessions in my washing machine this summer, it's a winner.
Verdict
I like the styling, I like the cooling, I like the features
Make and model: Funkier Hueza Gents Elite SS Jersey
Size tested: Medium, White/Black
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?
Funkier say: "The Hueza jersey is where style meets design and performance. This race cut jersey is form-fitted and features sublimated graphics so they won't fade over time. It features sleeve and waist grippers and is constructed from Funkier's lightest fabric, making this the optimal choice for great results during training or while you race to the finish line."
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
Features:
- Material: 100% breathable/moisture wicking polyester; lightweight roller chain fabric
- Anatomical race cut
- Sublimation SG8 sleeve and waist grippers
- Full length zipper with puller
- 3 standard back pockets
- One water resistant zippered central back pocket stores valuables and smartphone up to six inches
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
Solid as a lightweight jersey can be, in my view – no complaints.
Rate the product for performance:
10/10
Great cooling from the fabric dominates the jersey. I'm a big fan.
Rate the product for durability:
7/10
It's solid enough, although rough treatment will probably take the sheen off it.
Rate the product for fit:
8/10
The fit is great, even if I found the armpits to be a touch close.
Rate the product for sizing:
8/10
I wore a medium on test, which is one size smaller than my usual fare, but I got away with it. Large would've been great too, so buy depending on whether you like a tighter fit.
Rate the product for weight:
9/10
Rate the product for comfort:
8/10
Very comfortable in general, although the tightness under the armpits might have been improved by sizing up – although it wouldn't have been as racy then. A slight compromise there.
Rate the product for value:
8/10
Great performance usually means a super-high price tag, but not in this case.
How easy is the product to care for? How did it respond to being washed?
No complaints.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
Great.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
The cooling, and the design too.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
The tight fit around the armpits, although I was testing a size down from my usual test kit.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? Yes
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes
Use this box to explain your score
A very good, stylish and very cool lightweight jersey, ideal for quick summer riding.
Age: 26 Height: 188cm Weight: 83kg
I usually ride: Specialized Allez Sport My best bike is:
I've been riding for: Under 5 years I ride: Most days I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: time trialling, club rides, sportives, general fitness riding
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