OneTen Primavera Long Sleeve Jersey

The Primavera long sleeve jersey from OneTen aims to tackle those days when it's too warm for a jacket but too nippy for summer kit; British weather really. A technical piece of clothing, every panel's material seems to have been considered and applied to best effect.

OneTen is a new brand for me so off to the 'about us' I went. The company specifically aims to apply brain power over tradition when designing their kit, to create items that work in all the right places. The jersey feels different to any long sleeve I've used in the past.

As I put the top on, I immediately felt the dense wind proofing across the chest and shoulders. It's unusual as it's thin, with no thermal layer behind, leaving me to doubt how warm it would keep me. Once on the bike however, all doubt was removed as the panelling kept wind chill at bay.

Behind the smooth action zip is a good, wide strip of the same wind protection at the collar, which hugs the neck well; preventing any draughts. All of the material is slightly crunchy, hinting at its water resistance. It's good for a bit of spray or drizzle but isn't going to keep you dry in full blown rain.

Pulling my arms into the sleeves, I noticed the stretch panelling applied here. Allowing for a lean cut but with plenty of give, it means the arms fit close and do not flap as you're riding the bike.

The remaining panels use a lightweight mesh, of two densities: the white is double layered under the arms for more warmth in this exposed area. The back is considerably thinner and more airy, again, I was slightly in doubt as to how warm I would be but as it isn't exposed to the wind I didn't find it a problem.

All these different panels create a jersey with great temperature control and fit. I found myself using it as a top garment but also as an under garment on colder days. I found it was good in this role too because of how well it breathes and also wicks moisture away. I'd say it goes down to around 10 degrees as a top, with a base layer underneath.

I even found it to work well in a cyclocross race; the fitted cut and breathable panels made it perfect for winter racing. Being a very muddy one, it was also a grand test for the cleanability: from brown back to the bright white and red with flying colours.

Finishing touches are a zipped pocket along with the standard open three at the rear and small reflective brand tags that should help you to be seen in the daylight saving season that is this kit's playground.

I've been impressed by the OneTen Primavera. I was sceptical as to the warmth that the jersey would provide, feeling more like a lightweight summer jersey but it was unfounded.

The materials used have really been thought through for each panel and there is confidence in the selection, with no additional or redundant layers. If you're after a long sleeve for the coming spring weather, that is flexible enough to be used for racing and as an under garment, the Primavera would make a solid choice.

Verdict

Something between jersey and jacket that's great for hard winter riding and even cyclocross racing