Merlin Core Long Sleeved Cycling Jersey

Merlin's Core Long Sleeve Cycle Jersey is intended for early season and autumn riding, and for me at least it hits the spot just nicely. Available in timeless black, blue or red, it's a snug rather than second skin fit, which is extremely flattering to those lumpy bits we're all secretly self-conscious about, yet still compatible with winter-weight baselayers.

Core is the brand's entry-level in-house clothing range, aimed at 'new riders, leisure riders and commuters', whereas the Sport and Elite ranges offer racier cuts and more sophisticated fabrics.

Typical of this price point, we're talking 100 per cent polyester but a very tactile blend, accentuated by the thin-pile fleece lining. Sizing is impressive, literally feeling bespoke for my 181cm, 70kg frame – even the sleeves – and it's worth noting I'm much broader across the shoulders than these measurements would imply. (And in case you're wondering, it's not me in the pictures.)

The sleeves feature fitted cuffs to keep chills from being scooped inside, while silicone grippers at the hem ensure excellent tenure, even against super-slippery sparkly bib longs.

Round the back Merlin has gone the traditional three open pocket terrace, with subtle but very effective reflective detailing. By contemporary standards these are relatively shallow and we're coming to expect a zippered side stash for coins and other valuables, so I was mildly disappointed by its omission. That said, they comfortably swallow a micro jacket, bananas, energy bars, keys and a smaller smartphone.

Paired with higher-end synthetic and merino baselayers, the tog weight and wicking have been surprisingly effective throughout a very chilly March. I'm fond of thermal types, especially in single figures, but these can lead to clamminess under sustained effort, especially on spirited commutes with messenger bags/rucksacks in tow. The Merlin has kept me genuinely temperate on days of 3-12°C and the full-length zipper allows relatively easy regulation of airflow, although the tag proved trickier than some when wearing thick winter weight gloves.

I've got away with neck tubes/buffs when icy blasts have suddenly struck on 25-mile loops but a wind/water repelling micro jacket is a must for longer hauls, or if wet stuff is factored into the equation. Without a shell I was quite damp within 10 minutes of a sharp shower, and though I was almost dry again within 20, I was running the cold gauntlet.

> Check out our guide to the best windproof jackets here

Very minor personal niggles aside, the Core represents fantastic value for money and does everything I would want of an early/end of season jersey.

Verdict

Nicely tailored and well-executed training jersey at a seriously appealing price