Castelli call this a jersey but the Transparente is actually part of their jacket range. Either way, the Italian company have created a great companion for chilly days and breezy conditions.
The Gore Windstopper X-Lite material it uses is the most minimal fabric we’ve seen for a full windproof. It is also more supple than other fabrics, without the scratchy, inflexible feel of fabrics that have a windproof membrane sandwiched between their layers.
The windproof panelling covers the whole of the front and from the shoulder to the elbow, with the remainder of the sleeves made from a soft, lightweight Roubaix-style fabric.
The full-length zip – in a bright fluoro finish – isn’t backed or baffled, but we didn’t feel any chills coming through. We would recommend you keep the metal zip puller clean; we’ve had these corrode when perspiration is left on them.
The back is a heavier weight, Roubaix-style fabric that is quick to dry and reasonably water resistant. It’s not ideal for rainy conditions but for occasional road spray and drizzle it’s more than adequate, especially as the pocket area has a more substantial, rain-resistant outer.
The fit is where the Transparente really scores. It’s part of Castelli’s Rosso Corsa range, so it’s race cut – high at the front and low at the back with a one-inch deep elasticated hem to hold it in place.
It fits snugly to your torso, too, so that even in strong winds there’s no flapping, while the arms are cut long so you stay snug down on the drops. The high collar, with its distinctive V-cut at the nape of the neck, also keeps wind at bay.
It’s available in all-black or red/white/black but our favourite is this fluoro-highlighted version. Scotchlite seam details on the shoulders and hips further increase visibility.
This article was originally published in Cycling Plus magazine, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio.