Quality can have a huge influence on your comfort and performance, and that's no different with the best cycling jerseys.
Advances in technical fabrics in recent years mean the difference in on-bike performance between the best cycling jerseys and clothes not designed specifically for cycling can be substantial, particularly if you’re concerned about going fast or riding comfortably in hot weather.
Of course, many roadies care about how they look on the bike too, and while we certainly wouldn’t claim to be the arbiters of ‘cool’, we think all of these cycling jerseys tested by the BikeRadar test team fit the bill.
It's worth remembering these jerseys are designed for riding in warm, dry weather, so don't forget to check the forecast before rides.
If you're heading out for a long time, packing an extra layer to put on if the weather changes is always sensible. Our selections of the best waterproof jackets for cyclists and the best cycling gilets will help you choose suitable layers for your riding.
This list is made up of men's cycling jerseys, but where women's-equivalent jerseys exist we have included a link. We've also created a list of 6 of the best women's cycling jerseys for summer.
The best cycling jerseys in 2023
Assos Equipe RS Aero SS Jersey
- Sizes: S-XXL
- Colours: Black, black/white/red, black/white/green, white/black
- Price: £145/$189/€170/AU$323 as tested
The Assos Equipe RS Aero SS is designed for aero efficiency, hugging the body like a second skin.
This minimalist jersey feels perfect in the riding position, but sizing is small so most will need to size up.
At the front, a soft-to-touch, three-dimensional dimpled knit fabric increases the surface area to push up evaporation rates and help with aerodynamic airflow.
On the rear, a wider-gauge mesh fabric increases breathability. This has limited vertical stretch and along with a silicone-lined hem keeps everything in place.
Three decent-sized rear pockets are easy to access.
Assos doesn't have a direct female equivalent, but its Dyora RS Summer SS jersey is the most similar option in its women's-specific range.
Endura Pro SL Lite Jersey
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Colours: 'Concrete grey', 'sunrise'
- Price: £80/$110/€100 as tested
The new Pro SL Lite cycling jersey is the evolution of working with pro teams and is cut using lightweight fabrics specifically for warm days. It fits like a second skin without feeling tight.
Fine mesh front and side panels are cool, wick well and help with aerodynamics, while the grid-patterned rear does a top job of shifting sweat.
The smooth-fabric arms are not as long as some and feature raw ends with silicone bands that hold them in place. All critical seams are bonded, keeping weight and bulk down.
The low-cut neck sits well and does away with the need for a zip garage. The simple three-pocket setup is in keeping with the minimalist design, but they do sit a little higher than some. Hot-weather performance is right up there and the stylish Pro SL Lite punches above its price tag.
Those looking for a women's-specific option might consider Endura's WMS PT Wave S/S Jersey Limited Edition jersey.
Giro Chrono Elite Short Sleeve Jersey
- Colours: 'Phantom blue', black, 'charcoal'
- Sizes: S-XL
- Price: £120/$140/€140/AU$160 as tested
The Giro Chrono Elite Short Sleeve Jersey saves you weight but not money compared to the brand's highly-rated Chrono Expert Short Sleeve Jersey.
Giro's premium jersey costs £40 more. But quality materials, superb ventilation and a comfy, torso-hugging fit help the Chrono Elite embody its name.
Clever tech includes UPF 50 protection in the main part of the jersey but not the mesh panels on the back and arms.
Our 'phantom blue' sample looked smart, but colour choice is limited.
Giro Chrono Expert Short Sleeve Jersey
- Sizes: S-2XL
- Colours: 'Iceberg horizon', 'bright red', 'true spruce'
- Price: £80/AU$130 as tested
The Giro Chrono Expert cycling jersey feels classy and is very hard to fault. The striking yet understated design includes reflective details.
The renewable polyester/elastane blend boasts a fine mix of stretch and form-fitting (not to mention eco credentials), aided by sleeves that sit gracefully on the arms and an efficient elasticated silicone hem.
Full-length underarm mesh panels are breathable, while the main body material wicks sweat and has a UPF 30 rating.
The Giro Chrono Expert jersey has three rear pockets and a sizeable, secure (but not water-resistant) zipped pocket that comfortably holds a phone.
Sadly, the zipper can sometimes become caught in the garage and the 175g weight makes it fairly heavy.
Scott RC Pro Supersonic
- Sizes: S-XXL
- Colours: Black/'drift purple'
- Price: £90/€100 as tested
The Scott RC Pro Supersonic is a pro-level cycling jersey at a sub-£100 price.
Smart features includes the sleek, elasticated waist hem and arm grippers.
The lightweight 85 per cent polyester/15 per cent elastane material offers stretch and fabric-on-skin comfort.
The lack of a zipper garage is an easily avoided flaw and the water-repellent pocket is too small for a phone but holds cards and cash.
You can stash food and spares in the three open rear pockets, which are easy to access on the fly.
Despite the ‘pro’-level billing, this jersey feels flattering in terms of fit and design. The ridged texture on the material and close fit suggest aero benefits.
Breathability and ventilation via the fabric and the large, open-mesh panels under the arms are also good.
Scott bills this as a cross-country jersey, but it excels on the asphalt.
Sportful Monocrom Jersey
- Sizes: S–XXXL
- Colours: 'Anthracite', black, 'blue atomic', 'coconut', 'dry green', 'sea moss'
- Price: £90/$150/€100 as tested
The Sportful Monocrom Jersey is a chic and high-performing summer jersey at a good price.
Sportful achieves the dashing colour finish by creating a white jersey before dipping it into different-coloured dyes to achieve the final shade.
The high-stretch mesh panels wick well and fit true to size, offering a more forgiving fit than some of Sportful’s race kit.
We liked the overall cut, with long sleeves and wide, raw-finish arm ends, low neck and a wide silicone-lined hem, all delivering a comfortable fit. The three rear pockets are located perfectly and offer ample storage.
The Monocrom W Jersey is the women's-specific version. The fit and range of colours are slightly different, but otherwise it's very similar.
Alé PRR Green Road Jersey
- Sizes: S-XXXL
- Colours: Black, burgundy, blue, turquoise, yellow
- Price: £125/$150/€125/AU$185 as tested
The Alé PRR Green Road jersey uses over 90 per cent recycled materials in a slim but not restrictive cut. This makes it good in windy conditions and helps with wicking.
Alé uses a horizontal mesh on the front, and a wider mesh on the rear and under the arms for breathability.
The smooth, raw-end sleeves have plenty of length and sit well, while the front zip offers further ventilation. A bottom zip garage protects your shorts, but there’s no need for one on the low-cut neck.
Three regular-sized pockets sit a little higher than some and include a nutrition sleeve on the right side.
Alé also offers a version designed for female riders.
Altura Icon Short-Sleeve Jersey
- Sizes: S-XL
- Colours: Large variety of colours and patterns
- Price: £55/€65 as tested
The Altura Icon Short-Sleeve is a good-value, bright and colourful jersey with 360-degree reflectivity and a forgiving fit.
Altura uses a smooth Lycra fabric on the front and rear panels, along with wide mesh side/underarm panels to help with breathability when you’re working hard.
Three well-located pockets, along with a zipped valuables pocket, provide ample storage for essentials. They sagged under heavier loads though.
The rear drop tail features a silicone grip hem that prevents the Icon riding up.
Altura also produces a women's version of this cycling jersey in a similar variety of designs.
B’Twin Triban RC100 Warm Weather Jersey
- Sizes: S–XXL
- Colours: Black, navy, red/black, turquoise, white
- Price: £18/$25 as tested
It’s hard not to be impressed by the B’Twin Triban RC100 warm-weather jersey's low price tag and user-friendly features. It has a forgiving cut but isn’t overly flappy.
The jersey's designed specifically for warm-weather riding and uses recycled fibres that breathe well.
Under-arm mesh panels and a full-length front zip enhance ventilation. A zip garage at the bottom protects your shorts. There isn’t one on the neck, but we didn’t experience any irritation.
A silicone gripper holds in place the mesh panel on the dropped rear. At the back of the jersey, you can store plenty in the three open pockets, a zipped pocket and two side pockets.
B'Twin also offers low-priced women's cycling jerseys, such as the Triban RC500 Women's Short Sleeve Jersey.
Castelli Hors Categorie Jersey
- Sizes: XS–XXXL
- Colours: 'Dark grey', 'dark steel blue', red, 'vortex grey', yellow
- Price: £100/$140/€100 as tested
The Castelli Hors Categorie is a cool jersey that performs in warm weather thanks to the brand's Velocity Rev3 fabric on the main panels, with a cool mesh on the rear and wider mesh side panels.
The front zip, with neck garage, provides further temperature control.
The arms are cut long without any fancy cuffs or raw ends, but ride comfortably and help with longevity. A drop tail with silicone detail helps the Hors Categorie to sit pretty.
The three well-supported rear pockets are easy to access on the move. You can keep valuables in the zipped pocket.
Castelli doesn't make a women's-specific version of the Hors Categorie cycling jersey, but it does offer a wide selection of women's jerseys.
dhb Aeron Short Sleeve Jersey
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Colours: Black, blue, orange, purple, red, turquoise
- Price: £55/$70/€65/AU$90 as tested
The Italian-made dhb Aeron cycling jersey is an impressive performer, considering its low price.
It looks good, fits true to size and delivers a forgiving yet comfortable ride.
dhb uses a lightweight and durable dimpled mesh fabric that helps to keep you cool and dry when temperatures rise.
The centre back panel features wider mesh to increase breathability. It also features UPF40 sun protection and an anti-bacterial treatment to stop it stinking.
Despite the lack of a zip garage, the neck is comfortable. Laser-cut arm grippers do their job well and provide an air of class.
Three decent-sized pockets and a zip pocket provide ample carrying capacity, but sit higher than some. A silicone hem helps to hold the rear in place.
The women's-specific version is the same price and features a similarly bold design.
Endura FS260-Pro II
- Sizes: S-XXL, plus relaxed fit
- Colours: 'Rust red', black, white, blue
- Price: £60/$90/€70 as tested
Endura often combines cutting-edge tech and affordability, and the FS260-Pro II cycling jersey continues that theme with a winning mix of top-end flourishes at a more wallet-friendly price.
Despite a lack of elastane in the main body, the 100 per cent polyester construction of the fabric feels form-fitting, helped by the fitted Lycra of the shoulders and classy arm grippers. That said, it’s noticeably less silky on the skin than more expensive jerseys.
The decent-sized zipped, middle pocket holds an iPhone. The cavernous four open main pockets can carry everything else you need.
The omission of a zipper garage and silicone hem at the front is frustrating, but the jersey didn't ride up or sit loosely.
Endura Pro SL Race Jersey
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Colours: 'Deep teal, 'ink blue', 'mustard', 'pomegranate'
- Price: £99.99/$139.99/€112.99 as tested
The Endura Pro SL Race is a highly breathable, slim-fit cycling jersey that competes with rivals costing twice its modest price.
The lack of a zipper garage and zipped rear pocket take the gloss off an otherwise smart design.
Our mustard-coloured sample wasn't to our tester's taste, but the Pro Race SL Jersey comes in three other colours.
Madison RoadRace jersey
- Sizes: S-XXL
- Colours: Red, blue, black
- Price: £65 as tested
The Madison RoadRace cycling jersey ticks many boxes. The overall fit is lean but unrestrictive, race-friendly yet effective on long training sets.
The arm grippers are a highlight, as is the neat and tidy internal finishing that prevents chafing. Mesh panels provide good ventilation.
The sweat-proof zipped pocket is welcome and just about holds an iPhone in a protective case. The remaining three, open rear pockets are sizeable enough and don't droop. The elasticated silicone rear hem can feel tight.
Points are scored for the reflective strip at the rear for visibility, aided by the fluorescent design.
Lusso Paragon Jersey
- Sizes: S-XXL
- Colours: Navy, 'plum', 'crimson', black
- Price: £105/$116/€105/AU$174 as tested
The Lusso Paragon Jersey impresses with great performance and looks at a reasonable price.
Raw-cut sleeves are stylish and stop the Paragon from rustling in the wind. The wraparound waist gripper keeps the jersey in place even when you lean forwards on the bike.
Lusso's handmade, Italian fabric is comfortable on all but the warmest days, when the absence of mesh impairs ventilation.
Pearl Izumi Interval Jersey
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Colours: 'Pine/atomic red transform', 'navy/white beval', 'white/wet weather triad'
- Price: £125/$125
The Interval is a minimalist, high-performance and neat-looking race jersey. It has a next-to-skin fit with a silky feel inside and out thanks to the Italian-knit Elite Transfer fabric that breathes well.
This mesh material has lots of stretch for a good fit and is relatively robust compared to some minimalist jerseys. There’s a Coldblack treatment to reflect heat on warm days too.
The rear hem has a silicone liner to keep it in place and three well-located pockets sit above this. These have bonded tops and inner support patches on the high-stress areas, but there’s no zip pocket in keeping with the sleek design.
The overall cut on this low-neck jersey is fitted but is more generously sized than some of the Italian brands.
An equivalent cycling jersey designed for female riders is also available from Pearl Izumi.
Stolen Goat Hanzo
- Sizes: XS-XXXL
- Colours: Mulitple
- Price: £75/$110/€99/AU$160 as tested
The Stolen Goat Hanzo cycling jersey will divide opinion on the aesthetic front, but we think the Japanese-influenced design comes off.
The Belgium-made material shines, proving breathable, aero and comfortable for all-day riding.
With sleek, yet comfortable arm sleeves and a four-way stretch, the Hanzo fits well.
The elasticated silicone hem stops the cycling jersey flapping, yet the zipper can bulge outwards at the chest and belly.
The three main, open rear pockets are sizeable but don't sag. The water-resistant zipped pocket is ideal for a card, cash and keys.
Stolen Goat makes multiple alternative designs and women’s versions too.
Q36.5 L1 Pinstripe X Jersey
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Colours: Black/grey, orange, purple, navy
- Price: £142/€162 as tested
The Q36.5 L1 cycling jersey is beautifully made and quick-drying, but at a price.
The three-dimensional fabric increases the surface area to aid wicking, while the striped silver thread’s high thermal conductivity is said to increase breathability and help reduce odours.
It’s also claimed to minimise electrostatic, enabling muscles to operate more effectively, but it's hard to quantify on the road.
The L1 cycling jersey has a race cut and features longer raw-end sleeves, a low neck and full-length zip with a short-protecting lower garage.
Storage is good and the ‘hidden’ pockets are not only easy to access but in keeping with the minimalist design.
Van Rysel Endurance Racer
- Sizes: S-XXL
- Colours: Red, 'ice blue', 'navy blue', 'dark green', 'coral pink'
- Price: £50 as tested
The Van Rysel Endurance Racer is a great cycling jersey for for pushing hard in high temperatures.
Mesh panels and lightweight fabric help keep you cool. The racy fit looks aerodynamic if a bit revealing, so you might want to size up if this bothers you.
The Endurance Racer jersey has seven pockets: one zipped (which can just about fit an iPhone), two gel-sized, one major compartment for a waterproof or full riding buffet, and three classic rear pockets, which are, sadly, a little fiddly to stick your hands into when on the move.
Further welcome touches include a full-length zipper guard to prevent any rubbing and two sizeable mesh panels to aerate your armpits.
However, the internal stitching and finishing quality aren't that slick.
Buyer's guide to cycling jerseys
Why should I wear a cycling jersey?
Whether or not you'll be happier in a dedicated cycling jersey really depends on what kind of riding you're looking to do.
Do you want to ride fast or efficiently, without wasting watts? If so, a properly fitted cycling jersey is going to serve you best.
If you're more interested in taking it easy and staying casual, or you're looking to stop off in shops and towns mid-ride, then there's nothing wrong with wearing your normal clothes, or a mix of cycling-specific clothes and non-cycling-specific clothes.
Just be mindful that if it rains or you get sweaty, everyday clothes aren't designed to be as breathable or quick-drying as cycling-specific kit.
Fit, fabrics and aerodynamics
Tight, close-fitting kit is more aerodynamically efficient than loose, baggy clothing. Indeed, our wind tunnel testing found an aero jersey is one of the best aero upgrades.
It's also easy enough to test yourself – just go out in a baggy top, the increased air resistance is obvious.
What's less well known is that both the type of fabric and the placement of seams can also have an effect on the aerodynamic efficiency of cycling jerseys.
These jerseys are often more complex and expensive to design and manufacture than standard jerseys though, so you'll likely need to cough up some extra cash to get your hands on them.
They arguably represent a good-value performance upgrade though, because aero jerseys can have a relatively large effect on how aerodynamic you are but cost much less than aero road bikes or aero wheels.
On the other hand, if you're not fussed about optimising your aerodynamic efficiency, a light looser jersey might be more comfortable and offer a little more breathability in hot weather.
Just be wary when sizing up that if a jersey is too big for you, the rear pockets might sag a bit when full of stuff.
Other than the fact that it doesn't look amazing, it's not a huge problem. But it will likely make the pockets a bit harder to reach while riding.
How much money do I need to spend on a cycling jersey?
It depends on your goals. Lower-priced jerseys tend to be perfectly functional but are most often targeted at non-racers, so if you're looking for a very tight fit you may need to size down.
Higher-priced jerseys have usually been subject to more in-depth research and development, possibly using wind tunnel or real-world testing to refine the fit and aerodynamics. You may also get more advanced fabrics with features such as protection from UV rays.
Styling also tends to improve as the price increases because premium brands invest more in design. This is subjective, so we'll leave it up to you to make the call.
