Belgian clothing firm Vermarc are perhaps best known for supplying team issue kit for some of the biggest names in cycling, such as Omega Pharma-Lotto and Quickstep. From their latest Forma Red Carbon range (the name derives from the 1 percent of carbon woven into the material) comes this long sleeve jersey.
Fleece-lined through the interior, it's definitely one for those cold mid-autumn rides when the rain stays away and as an only layer in single figure temperatures, it did the job. We should point out that this isn't a wind-proof garment, and we did have to slip on a gilet during breezier rides. Buyers should definitely size up, too. We usually go for medium jerseys, but our large still left little room to manoeuvre. Labels on the collar, especially on jerseys used as base layers, can often itch, so although it's a small detail, the lack of them here made a noticeable difference.
The range is geared up for winter riding, so we were a little disappointed with the predominantly black colour which didn't exactly make us stand out in fading evening light. This can normally be fixed with a generous smattering of reflective details, but with just two small strips on the rear, it didn't quite do the job. And for what you get, the price was a little disappointing too.
