Sportful Allure Thermal Jersey (womens)

The Sportful Allure Thermal Jersey is a long-sleeve women's top that lives up to its claim of being cosy and comfortable, a very good choice for cool spring days or 'an extra thermal layer in winter', as Sportful suggests.

The jersey is made from Thermoflow fabric, with a dimpled exterior surface and a fleecy interior, and offers a good balance of design, fit, warmth and comfort. Worn over a merino baselayer, bib tights and with a breathable windproof over the top, it's kept me warm in temperatures as low as 2 or 3°C.

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The collar comes up nice and high to keep your neck warm, and an elasticated hem keeps the jersey in place despite the absence of silicone gripper. The sleeves are of a good length, which ensures no irritating gap between the elasticated cuffs and your gloves, even when you're stretched out on the bike.

As spring has finally sprung in the UK, the Allure has been perfect worn over a short-sleeve jersey, wicking well and keeping me warm and dry. Although the fabric is described as 'thermal', it's actually quite light and will roll up small enough to fit easily into a standard jersey pocket for those 'in-between' days when you leave home early in crisp conditions and return in warm sunshine. The full-length zip, which seems good quality, gives plenty of scope for adjusting ventilation.

The three rear pockets are of a good size – certainly compared with some women's jerseys – and will hold all your ride essentials. The only improvement might be a zipped pocket for valuables. The pockets feature a reflective Sportful logo and two small reflective tape inserts, which are secured at each end. Although I can't see how performance might be affected, I would have preferred these to be securely sewn onto the fabric.

The Allure Thermal Jersey comes in three colours – grey, pink or turquoise. I like the turquoise on test, with its attractively trimmed collar, hem and cuffs in a deep pink fabric. The contrast reflective stripes across the front are thoughtfully positioned above the bust so as not to make you appear wider than you might be! I think the jersey looks great with black tights, and the bright blue must certainly improve visibility.

> Buyer's Guide: Everything you need to know about cycling jerseys

Overall, I think it's a very good jersey that works over a range of temperatures, making it very good value at £65 RRP. A zip pocket would be handy, though.

Verdict

A well-made, attractive jersey that will provide near year-round comfort