dhb Vaeon Roubaix Long Sleeve Jersey

Cold-weather cycling clothing is now a necessity, and dhb's Vaeon Roubaix Long Sleeve jersey is a fine insulated top for autumn and early winter with a good fit and decent price.

It's made from the same 235g Lombardia Roubaix Lycra as used in the Vaeon Roubaix Bib tights. A mid-weight fabric, it isn't too bulky and fits closely next to the body and works well in the current temperatures. Paired with a short sleeve base layer it's good for harder training rides, or worn with a long sleeve base layer is good for steady tempo rides.

The jersey's hard-working fabric copes well in a range of temperatures making it a good number for year-round use and all but the coldest winter days. I can see it doubling up equally well in the spring. It lacks wind resistance in the front panels, but this is easily solved by slipping a windproof gilet on over the top, increasing the workable range of the top well into the winter.

dhb clothing tends to fit well and the Vaeon is no exception. The medium I tested fitted almost perfectly. It's close-fitting but not so snug that you have to breathe in to do up the full-length zip, and there's comfortably space for a long sleeve base layer underneath. It's not quite perfect though - the waistline is my only gripe. Even though the hem is lined with silicone gripper tape, the waist sags too much when you put a spare tube, pump, phone, house keys and some cash into the rear pockets. Once on the bike and crouched over it's not that bad, but I'd like to see the fit in this area improved to match the fit in the rest of the jersey.

You get three pockets out back in which to carry tools and food for a ride. The middle one is a bit taller and easily takes a mini-pump, while the other two are slightly angled for easier access. Atop the middle pocket is a smaller zipped pocket that is good for stashing car/house keys/cake shop money. They're generously sized for carrying enough essentials for a ride of any length.

Visibility is a key concern for many at this time of year and the Vaeon has reflective detailing around the outside of the arms and out back, as well as 3M reflective logos. While not reflective, the areas of white also help to break up what is otherwise an overly black jersey - boosting visibility in low light conditions.

dhb's Roubaix jersey is one of those tops that most cyclists really should have in their kit bag. Worn with either a short or long sleeve base layer, depending on preference or riding speed, and with a lightweight shell or gilet tucked in one of the rear pockets, you're well prepared for most weather conditions in the autumn.

As we approach the wetter season you only need to add a waterproof hardshell over the top to give full protection when the weather gets nasty. And to top it all the dhb is a very attractive price. You can spend more, but you really don't need to.

Verdict

A wise investment for any cyclist hoping to ride through the year and at this price is a steal.