Nukeproof Blackline SS jersey review

I've been testing Nukeproof's Blackline SS jersey to find out whether it lives up to the brand's hard-earned reputation that has seen it go from selling budget online-only bikes to manufacturing some of the most droolworthy kit out there.

Nukeproof Blackline SS jersey details

The Blackline’s main body is made from 100 per cent recycled S.Cafe polyester – a material that uses old coffee grounds and which Nukeproof says offers natural moisture wicking and odour resistant properties, along with natural UV light protection – while the back and underarm mesh panels are constructed from a polyester and elastane blend that has been treated with an anti-bacterial finish.

According to Nukeproof, the Blackline SS jersey has a trail-focused fit and is 200 per cent faster drying compared to cotton-based tops.

The jersey has a zipped stash pocket on the back-right hip that’s big enough to fit a modern smartphone.

Nukeproof Blackline SS jersey performance

Although I sized up to a large, I'm usually a medium in jerseys, I didn’t feel like the Blackline’s fit was overly large and I certainly didn’t feel swamped by the top. Like a lot of general riding jerseys, it would look suit trail, enduro, bikepark and even downhill disciplines.

The size large had enough room to fit a back protector underneath and I managed to squeeze it over full body protection too, but that did push the limits of the jersey’s fit.

Against my skin, the jersey felt luxurious although fairly weighty as a consequence. This meant it created the perception of heat build-up on longer, sustained efforts or on really hot days.

However, it was no more or less saturated with sweat than any other jersey I had on test, thanks, no doubt, to the mesh back and underarms. The weighty fabric certainly helped create a feeling of increased protection compared to thinner jerseys, too.

The rear zipped pocket is fairly large but its capacity is limited by weight rather than size; a house key and a few coins proved to be my acceptable limit before the jersey started to deform.

The dropped tail looks good and stopped muck hitting the small of my back. The short sleeves refused to jump up over rough terrain, staying put just above my elbows, and if the short-sleeve version doesn’t appeal, there’s a long-sleeve version too.

Nukeproof Blackline SS jersey bottom line

With an impressive fit, luxury feel and some neat features, I really liked the Blackline SS jersey. Although it felt hot at times, in reality, it was no warmer, and suffered with wetting from sweat no more, than other jerseys in the same category.

Plus the sleeves stayed put, which is a big deal for me.