Aldi Performance Cycling Jersey

Aldi's Men's Performance Long Sleeve Cycling Jersey is a cheap but generally cheerful staple, with decent tailoring and some nice touches.

Aside from feeling acutely synthetic, the polyester/polyamide weave is surprisingly comfortable. Seams are well stitched given the asking price, and silicone grippers mean the back and sleeves stay exactly where you want them. There's decent overlap here, too, even with non-bib longs, while most cool/cold weather gloves slip neatly over the sleeves.

> Sold out online – find your nearest Aldi store here

The longish fold-up collar continues this chill-cheating theme – perfect for those sunny autumn afternoons when it's just that little too warm for the softshell jacket-cum-jersey.

Somewhat predictably, moisture management is good rather than great, especially worn with synthetic baselayers although, thoughtfully, the weave is slightly thinner at key points, specifically beneath the armpits.

Twenty minutes at around 20mph and things turn a little clammy around the pits, chest and lower back, at which points the fibres kick in, keeping moisture to an acceptable minimum. Dropping the zipper a few inches helps, but I must say that a little additional warmth was welcome when the temperature dipped sharply on mid-October evenings. Zippers can be a weak spot on budget kit, and I'd appreciate a longer tag for easier mid-flight climate control, but YKK is a dependable brand

The jersey isn't remotely shower resistant, so you'll need to carry a wind/water repelling jacket if rain's expected (or even if it isn't).

As standards, and so expectations, of budget garments have risen, I've become less forgiving. Pockets can sometimes be an afterthought, but I'm pleased to report that the heavier duty weave used here translates as a really supportive terrace. They're deep enough to swallow a mini pump, spare tube, bananas, energy bars and mobile phones/similar tech. Integral to the middle is a zippered section for money and other valuables.

Only a spare lithium-ion battery for a high power light tipped the balance: powering up climbs, out of the saddle, I could feel it bounding around, like unruly teenagers in a school science lab, although I wasn't conscious of it when just churning away in the saddle.

> Read our guide to the best Gabba-style ‘weatherproof’ jerseys

In terms of sizing, judging by this and other brands I'm thinking Chinese manufacturers err on the generous size. Traditionally a large in jerseys and jackets, I'm finding medium my new default. This one's no exception – a perfect length and plenty roomy enough in the shoulders. 

Ultimately, bearing in mind that it's a budget garment, there is a lot to like here. True, wicking prowess isn't on par with pricier synthetic weaves, and it does feel decidedly synthetic, but it is a warm, lightweight and generally pleasant staple for the cooler months.

Verdict

Relatively cheap but very cheerful long-sleeve jersey