Pactimo, the brand primarily known for its top quality road kits offered in both custom and standard designs, is now making mountain bike clothing. Their new Apex MTB jersey has an excellent fit and a few well thought out details that make it a keeper.
- Specialized RBX DriRelease Merino jersey review
- Mons Royale Riders Raglan T jersey review
- Morvelo Factory jersey review
Light and trim
All performance riding jerseys are lightweight, that's pretty much a given nowadays, the fit though, that can be a complete crapshoot.
The Apex MTB jersey nailed the low weight criteria, and managed to hit the mark on the fit as well. It fits trim, not Lycra racer, second-skin type trim, but far removed from the all too typical American square box shirt fit. It's worth noting, I'm tall and gangly, and while I remember the 90's baggy look, I'm well past that now. It pairs well with the matching Apex shorts, both with a nod towards XC riding.
Adding to the impeccable fit, the material placement works well. The front panel is a super soft Run-Lite fabric, if you're not a runner, having a silky smooth shirt is key as the up and down motion of a shirt can cause chafing on two spots where you really don't want to be chafed.
The back panel and sleeves use BreathLITE fabric, which has a mesh appearance and like its name suggests, is highly breathable. It works wonderfully with or without a pack, and any extra ventilation is more than welcome when riding with a hydration pack.
Both materials and the jersey's construction have held up admirably, coming away unscathed from run-ins with tree branches, and the occasional tumble.
Like all polyester clothing, the more you sweat in it the stinkier it becomes. It's definitely advisable to wash it, or at least dunk it in the sink or shower if traveling, or creek if out camping. Also, while the material feels soft and silky my mind can't escape the plasticy feel of polyester, but again this is an issue with all polyester clothing in general. I'd also like to see a glasses wipe under the hem.
Pactimo Apex MTB jersey pricing and availability
Available now. £35 / US$50 / Pactimo does not ship to Australia currently