Shutt VR Signature Training Top

If you’re looking for a cycling jersey with year round practicality, good looks and a high level of wear comfort, the Signature Training Top from Shutt VR is a good option to consider whether you are a male or female cyclist.

Made from a 48% merino 52% polyester content Sportwool fabric, the Signature offers the excellent temperature management and anti-bacterial anti-whiff properties of merino, with the faster drying time and better moisture management of polyester content. Washable at 40, the jersey should stay nicely odour free for a long time too. The fabric may not feel as sumptuous as higher merino content, but it is beautifully soft to the touch and next to skin, and the polyester does reduce that ‘wet sheep’ smell when wet as well as drying more rapidly. The density of the weave of the fabric means that while it’s not windproof, it does prevent excessive cooling from chilly breezes, and with the addition of a long sleeved base layer, it even does the job quite happily on genuinely cold rides. Or as a base layer itself with bib tights. I was quite comfortable in a variety of conditions, with just minor tweaks of base layer choices.

With a full length zip, great sleeve and body length, coupled with a neat (bit not tight) fitting high collar, the cut is ideally suited to year round use as well, with plenty of scope for ventilation in warmer weather, although it would be on the hot side for full summer conditions. The cuffs wrap neatly around the wrists to keep drafts out, but are stretchy enough to be pushed up the arm if necessary. The cut is unisex but actually one of few designs that I’ve come across that do genuinely suit both sexes, with the flattering fit more on the relaxed than racing side. The size medium I tried equated to about a 12-14, with enough torso length to suit tall or short riders.

The three rear pockets are a useful size and depth, with one also featuring a generous zipped security pocket. The central pocket is also finished with a reflective strip for visibility.

Styling is attractive and accessible- not too geeky, not too sporty, nor too plain and just cool enough for the ‘in’ crowd. The bold test-card like pattern will appeal to both sexes equally.

Whilst £89 marks a reasonable investment, you’re getting a good looking, hand finished, British-made garment that you’ll wear happily all year round and will last a good while. In my book that’s £89 well spent.

Verdict

Well made, extremely comfortable and versatile year-round riding wear. A sound investment.