Alé Women’s R-EV1 Summer Jersey

The Alé Women's R-EV1 Summer Jersey is one of four different short-sleeved designs in its R-EV1 collection of 'professional race fit and high performance materials'. This jersey certainly ticks both these boxes – it has a really good close fit (size up if in any doubt) and the performance is excellent. If you have the cash, it's certainly worth considering for some late summer riding.

• Pros: Lightweight, breathable, bright and bold
• Cons: Expensive, fragile fabrics

At just over 100g, the jersey is super-lightweight. Alé says the rear panel is 'Rap-dry Carbon Fabric'; given its performance, I presumed this meant rapid-drying. In the recent heat the jersey invariably remained a little damp while riding – you are permanently perspiring – but stop at a cafe and it dries out in no time.

Unlike the recently reviewed Alé PRR Srada Jersey, the R-EV1 doesn't have much fabric variation within its panels. There's nothing different under the arms, and the front panels are only marginally thicker than the rear and side ones; the difference here is barely noticeable to be honest.

The high performance fabric is pretty fragile; I managed to snag the interior a little during a washing cycle. There are no significant signs of rapid deterioration at this point, but the material is now slightly 'puckered' on both sides of the jersey. Indeed the label does say, 'The piling effect caused by zippers, Velcro straps or embroidered saddles is not to be considered a defect of the fabric.' If you are precious about preserving the condition of the material, my recommendation would be to wash it inside-out in a mesh laundry bag.

The sleeves and front hem are both tapered and lined with very fine silicone dimples. The sleeves don't shift a millimetre once positioned. I did find them a little narrow but this certainly didn't cause any discomfort.

The rear baseline hem is a simple silicone strip over a narrow elasticated band. The hem combination was enough to hold the jersey in place when the pockets were evenly loaded.

With a recommended temperature range of 18-30 degrees, it's not surprising that Alé has done away with any serious collar. The zip has a 'housing' at the base to prevent it rubbing against shorts, while a simple flap of material at the top does a perfectly good job of avoiding neck-irritation.

Alé's website says the jersey has a 'four back-pocket system' but there are only three. They are easily accessible and relatively roomy – certainly enough for snacks, phone, keys and a mini-pump. They are clearly not intended to be carrying huge loads of spare kit.

I tested a medium, which is what I'd normally expect to buy. It is a snug fit and I'd say, if in doubt, size up. Alé's work with pros has led to minimal, feminine cuts with only the essential design features necessary for racing. If you are serious about performance on the road, be it for racing or otherwise, then this jersey will most definitely appeal.

> Buyer's Guide: 20 of the best summer jerseys

The price tag might not though: an RRP of £110 may result in instant dismissal, especially with so many similar jerseys out there for less – its own previously mentioned PPR Strada Jersey, for example, is on sale for £65, and the Santini Volo has an RRP of £80. A quick search and you will find the R-EV1 on sale for £80 right now, so a decent saving at least if your heart is set on it.

Verdict

Perfect for high intensity riding in high temperatures, with a high price tag...