The fit is very flattering thanks to its stylish cut and the stretchy Lycra material, and I found the sizing spot on (that's not me in the photos, it's a tighter fit on our model). I particularly like the fact that it's not too short at the front. It comes in two colours: this bright pink 'Very Berry', and black.
The jersey is ideal to wear with a thin baselayer or vest, and because of its figure-hugging fit you can easily pop a light waterproof over it. The snug collar comes up nice and high for chilly days and the material extends behind the full-length zip in 'storm flap' fashion to prevent draughts getting in. Importantly, the sleeves are plenty long enough when you're stretched out on the bike. It has good length at the back, too, and the silicone gripper on the hem helps keep it in place.
Attention to detail is shown by the well-positioned reflective features – alongside the zip and on the forearms and rear pockets, and just below the neck.
A minor niggle is that the rear pockets are a little on the small side compared with some jerseys, but you can still fit in the essentials: tube, phone, snacks and a lightweight waterproof. And the zipped pocket is very handy for keeping keys and cash safe.
I do have some reservations about the robustness of the small-toothed plastic zip, although in a couple of months' of use it's held up fine; I do take extra care when inserting the little plastic end piece into the zipper, though. Also, the zip tag is quite short so it's difficult to grab hold of when wearing thick gloves.
All in all, though, this is a great jersey that I'll certainly be wearing a lot this winter. And it's a very competitive price, too.
Warmth, style, comfort... this winter jersey has them all covered
road.cc test report
Make and model: Madison Keirin women's longsleeve thermal jersey
Size tested: Size 10, Very Berry
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
Madison says: "A wardrobe essential, the Keirin thermal jersey is the go-to piece of kit when the weather begins to turn"
I agree – this women's jersey will see you through from autumn to spring, and in style too.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
Constructed from Thermal Lycra - 90% polyester, 10% elastane
Full length zip
Three rear hand pockets plus concealed zipper pocket
Reflective tape on the main zipper and reflective prints on the forearms and lower back for night time visibility
Elasticated hem with gripper
Elasticated cuffs
Zip garage and 'storm flap'
Limited lifetime warranty
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
Well made, multi-panel construction with tidy stitching, just the the odd thread end left unsnipped.
Rate the product for performance:
9/10
Does a great job of keeping you toasty and looks good too.
Rate the product for durability:
8/10
The fabric washes well and doesn't snag too easily even if you catch it with Velcro. I do wonder how long the plastic zip will last, though it's holding up so far.
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
9/10
It fits well and feels great; with a little more breathability it would have scored 10.
Rate the product for value:
9/10
The price is very good given this jersey's fabric, features and style.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
This jersey performed very well.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
The style and fit, and the cosy, comfy feel of the material.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
Nothing really.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? Yes
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes
Use this box to explain your score
I think the Keirin is a fantastic jersey, especially given its low price.
Age: 43 Height: 170cm Weight: 60kg
I usually ride: Marin Point Reyes 29er My best bike is: Giant Anthem X1
I've been riding for: 10-20 years I ride: Most days I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: commuting, touring, club rides, mountain biking, audax
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