Made in Italy. Three little words that carry a lot of weight! Giordana, based in Verona, kits out some of the biggest names in cycling, so our expectations were high when we received its latest Laser garments.
The Laser bib shorts are constructed from Aenergia fabric, with discreet branding on the seamless elastic leg cuffs, and small reflective tabs on both thighs. The Aenegria fabric feels slightly coarse in hand and had a noticeable compressive quality.
We were very comfortable on longer rides
Giordana's top-of-the line Cirro OF chamois wasn't as thick as some, but the density of the padding was spot on and included a prostate-relief cut-out in its centre. Giordana impregnates the chamois with Aloe for its anti-bacterial properties and claims that it can even help to soothe the skin during use. The Cirro OF chamois was comfortable for hours at a time, and never felt bulky or restrictive.
The fit is on the small side. The braces felt short at first and pressure on the shoulders was noticeable for the first few rides. Once the straps stretched a touch though, we never thought about them again. The Aenergia fabric hugs the body firmly.
The Laser bibs instantly made our muscles feel fresher by virtue of the firm support provided by the fabric and the excellent cut. These bibs are an ideal warm-weather choice: the brace is cut fairly short at the front (no corset-effect for beer bellies), the material used for the brace is light, and the Aenergia fabric wicked beautifully and is rated UPF 50 .
The Laser jersey's MicroPhase fabric feels light and invitingly soft to the touch, the kind of feel that makes you want to put it on immediately. For a mid-range item, the Laser jersey is packed with high-end details: mesh armpits, perforated Asteria 2.0 shoulder panels, elastic arm cuffs and reversed CamLock zipper.
A zippered security pocket was a welcome addition and a common feature on many new jerseys
A lot of thought has gone into the tail and pocket on the Laser jersey. Three generous pockets sit above an elastic cuff. The cuff sits smoothly against the top of the Laser bibs, for a seamless look. The middle pocket is piggy-backed by a zip-up security pocket with a reflective zipper and internal headphone hole. This is a great jersey for long days and big miles.
Strange fit – nearly baggy on the torso but snug on the arms
The fit of the Laser jersey is more club fit (casual rider) than race cut, but is still puzzling. The elastic sleeve cuffs and sleeves were quite narrow, think ‘climbers' arms’. The body is very long, and a comparatively generous cut compared with the sleeves. With the pockets loaded, the rear elastic cuff prevents excessive sag, but when the pockets are empty, the body feels slightly loose.
The Laser garments are precisely detailed. The quality and finish is first class and the garments always felt light and comfortable. Size varies between lines, so best to try these on to ensure you get the correct fit.
Note: The jersey and bibs are sold as separate items. The Laser jersey is US$169.96/AU$179.95 and the bib is US$194.95/AU$199.95