La Passione Summer Jersey Square White

La Passione makes its range of clothes in Italy and they're only available online. This Summer Jersey is made using soft and slinky fabrics and has a really great fit; it's aerodynamic and comfortable. It comes in a wide range of colours and graphics, and the pricing is keen thanks to the direct-sales approach.

Three main fabrics are used here, all of which are around 80% polyester and 20% elastane. There's a very fine-woven and stretchy Lycra on the front panels, which I found really comfortable against the skin. The fabric on the back is a fine mesh, which is more breathable than the front, allowing heat to escape on warm days. Further cooling is provided by open-mesh panels down the sides.

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It's a similar construction to a few other summer jerseys, but what differentiates it from something like, say, the Bontrager Circuit jersey, which I reviewed earlier this year, is that the fit here is a fair bit more racy.

Per the sizing guide, my strapping 38-inch chest means I'm a medium. Zipping it up and I had to pull the two halves of the zip together, but once it was on, the considerable stretchiness of the fabric meant it wasn't in the least restrictive. If you like your jersey to fit like the pros then you'll like this – it sits nicely against the skin with practically no flapping at speed.

Compare it with a jersey that's been optimised in a wind tunnel and you'll see key differences around the neckline and the positioning of the seams on the shoulders (according to the likes of Castelli, Sportful and Adidas these are the key areas, as they are where the wind first hits you).

If you're not riding a time trial then I'd suggest this level of detail is probably not overly important. But whenever you're riding quickly, a close-fitting jersey can offer greater aerodynamic benefits than rather more expensive upgrades like deep-section wheels.

If you're of a larger build, La Passione offers sizes up to XXL. It also offers an equivalent jersey in a female-specific cut, which is always welcome. In line with current trends, the sleeves are close-fitting and stretchy, with a raw-cut, thin, grippy material used to keep the openings in place for yer tan lines.

Detailing generally is well thought through. The unbranded zip is smooth and has a nice custom rubberised grip. I did find the top of the zip pull was a little pointy and occasionally irritated my throat. A garage flap would help here, or using a different zip pull.

> Check out our guide to the best summer jerseys here

At the back are three pockets, which are of a respectable size but not as big as some. For most rides I found they were ample. There is no zipped valuables pocket. A subtle but effective sewn-in reflective strip below the central pocket helps with night-time visibility.

In short, then, the story is similar to that with the matching bibs – quality fabrics, excellent performance and at a very palatable price. If this checked design doesn't do it for you, take a look at some of the others available, including ones with camo sleeves – very 2016.

Verdict

Close-fitting and comfortable summer jersey at a great price – recommended