My first wool jersey: should I expect never go back to synthetic?

[Puget Pounder]

I tend to hate how clammy my synthetic jerseys feel so I decided to look for some wool jerseys to see what the hubbub is about. Should I expect everything I heard to be true? Sometime's it's better to have never actually tasted champagne and stick with Miller :p

This one:

http://i.ebayimg.com/t/Road-Holland-Wool-Cylcing-Jersey-Vintage-Look-w-Back-Pockets-/00/s/NTI1WDQ2MQ==/$(KGrHqV,!lMF!hLQy12TBQfC3(LdgQ~~60_3.JPG

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Road-Holland-Wool-Cylcing-Jersey-Vintage-Look-w-Back-Pockets-/150953686822?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&nma=true&si=7QCew1%2BoOXb2uGQCjwkgji%2FmzOk%3D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc

[fiamme red]

"39% Merino wool / 61% polyester blend"

[christian]

Above 80d, it's synthetic for me.

[christian]

"39% Merino wool / 61% polyester blend"
Plastic in sheep's clothing!

[Puget Pounder]

Well, just shows how much I know! Sorry guys.

[MattTuck]

I think every comedy movie that I watch is going to be absolutely horrible. Most of them exceed my expectations and I end up being happy with them.

The lesson here is to keep your expectations low.

[Bob Ross]

Should I expect everything I heard to be true?

Based on my experience with merino wool -- two different cycling jerseys, plus a base layer, all by Ibex -- I would say an emphatic "No!"

Some of what you heard will no doubt be true...but I can't imagine any variant of that material serving all my needs so well that I would permanently turn my back on synthetics. Wool fills a particular need in my wardrobe.

[DRZRM]

What they said, poly blends are still poly, eventually they stink, they need constant washing, and I don't personally think they regulate temperature as well as pure Merino wool.

I like the Wabi Woolens Sport jerseys (http://www.wabiwoolens.com/sport-series/) in short and long sleeves but there are a ton of other choices. The Icebreaker Circuit Jersey short sleeved (http://www.realcyclist.com/icebreaker-circuit-jersey-short-sleeve-mens) or or long sleeved (http://www.realcyclist.com/icebreaker-circuit-jersey-long-sleeve-mens?cmp_id=&rrType=ClickCP&rrProd=ICE1080). Also look at Ibex, Rapha, and Swobo. I have a few blended wool shirts, some very light weight ones for very hot days, and while they are nice (some nicer than others) if you want to try wool, do yourself a favor and actually try wool. That said, I agree with Christian, on the hottest days, high tech synthetics just work better.

[pdmtong]

Above 80d, it's synthetic for me.

true this.

rapha classic <70d

rapha lightweight 70d - low 80s

above the low 80s it is synthetic all the way.

[Puget Pounder]

Very helpful. Thanks for dropping that knowledge on me. I guess I'll keep enjoying my Miller for now and will look for some deals on full wool jerseys.

[eippo1]

Got a Castelli base layer that does an amazing job in a very wide range of temps. When I use it with the Castelli mesh underneath, it will go from 40 all the way up to 60 without discomfort and plenty of wicking. Plus it's heavy enough that I can combine it with a thermal jacket to bike in very low temps.

Have an EWR jersey, but haven't biked with it much yet. Was planning on using it for cross season since it's branded with my team/shop, but haven't done one race this year.

[pdmtong]

Very helpful. Thanks for dropping that knowledge on me. I guess I'll keep enjoying my Miller for now and will look for some deals on full wool jerseys.

dont know if any wool jersey will ever be 100% - another thing to consider is half or full zip.

I like the styling of the half zip rapha's, but once the temps go up they are just to warm for me even in moderate sfbayarea temps

[DHallerman]

dont know if any wool jersey will ever be 100%

Not certain what you mean by that.

Take 100% wool jerseys from Woolistic: Vintage Velos (http://www.vintagevelos.com/en/26-wool-jerseys)

Or all-wool ones from Kucharik: an old-line wool company (http://www.kucharikclothing.com/-c-43_78.html)

Let alone pure-wool ones from Ibex: like this one (http://shop.ibex.com/Apparel/Mens-Ride/Giro-Full-Zip-Long-Sleeve-Jersey)

Does Rapha only mix petroleum products with sheep products?

[witcombusa]

I have no tolerence for the heat. Above about 80 degrees I will switch to a plastic, full zip, perferated, white, short sleeve jersey.

Other than that, 2 or 3 different thickness and sleeve length wool jerseys do it all.

[FlashUNC]

Does Rapha only mix petroleum products with sheep products?

Rapha generally uses a 40/60 mix for their sportwool, if I remember correctly.

[bart998]

Wool in winter... cotton in summer.

[Puget Pounder]

Interesting. I almost never use cotton for any serious athletics. It does not wick and when it gets wet, it dries slowly and can chaff.

I've been backpacking for longer than I've been cycling, and there are very few items we would bring that is made of cotton.

[DRZRM]

Wool in winter... cotton in summer.

Cotton cycling clothes? Really? Got a link?

[pdmtong]

Not certain what you mean by that.

Take 100% wool jerseys from Woolistic: Vintage Velos (http://www.vintagevelos.com/en/26-wool-jerseys)

Or all-wool ones from Kucharik: an old-line wool company (http://www.kucharikclothing.com/-c-43_78.html)

Let alone pure-wool ones from Ibex: like this one (http://shop.ibex.com/Apparel/Mens-Ride/Giro-Full-Zip-Long-Sleeve-Jersey)

Does Rapha only mix petroleum products with sheep products?

what I meant was I personally wasnt sure if there were 100% pure woool cycling tops. I thought many had 3-5% petro in them.

just havent "researched" it fully.

[DHallerman]

what I meant was I personally wasnt sure if there were 100% pure woool cycling tops. I thought many had 3-5% petro in them.

just havent "researched" it fully.

Well, that's why I asked about Rapha, since it seemed that those who wear Rapha aren't getting the real wool experience.

And you put the word researched in quotes because...??? Knowledge is quote-worthy??? Air-quotes perhaps...???

Dave, who did not need to research those 100% wool manufacturers

[verticaldoug]

Interesting. I almost never use cotton for any serious athletics. It does not wick and when it gets wet, it dries slowly and can chaff.

I've been backpacking for longer than I've been cycling, and there are very few items we would bring that is made of cotton.

Serious backcountry explorers know cotton kills faster than a frayed rope.

[fiamme red]

Rapha generally uses a 40/60 mix for their sportwool, if I remember correctly.Some of Rapha's jerseys are only 25% wool, e.g.: http://www.rapha.cc/winter-jersey. Some are all synthetic, e.g.: http://www.rapha.cc/long-sleeve-pro-team-jersey.

I believe that Rapha currently isn't selling a jersey that is more than 52% wool.

[FlashUNC]

Some of Rapha's jerseys are only 25% wool, e.g.: http://www.rapha.cc/winter-jersey. Some are all synthetic, e.g.: http://www.rapha.cc/long-sleeve-pro-team-jersey.

I believe that Rapha currently isn't selling a jersey that is more than 52% wool.

Apologies, I meant the 40 percent figure for the wool component.

But you are correct. Depends on the jersey and the use and their mix of construction. I have a lightweight jersey they make that I believe is 100% synthetic.

[christian]

Serious backcountry explorers know cotton kills faster than a frayed rope.Anthony's Nose isn't the Aiguille du Midi. Hell, since they installed the cable car, even the Aigulle du Midi ain't the Aigulle du Midi.

[pdmtong]

what I meant was I personally wasnt sure if there were 100% pure woool cycling tops. I thought many had 3-5% petro in them.

just havent "researched" it fully.

yes, air quotes courtesy of my 13yo daughter

I started this thread on the complete list of wool clothing a few months ago...but didnt commit to memory who was 100% and who wasnt

http://forums.thepaceline.net/showthread.php?t=107729&highlight=wool+jerseys

[verticaldoug]

I was thinking more of the lines of Jack London's To build a Fire.

The frozen wastes of my youth are worse than most mountains.

[pdmtong]

http://www.sfgate.com/style/pocketsquare/article/Standard-amp-Strange-cycling-wear-in-Oakland-4058768.php

[john903]

To the OP's question yes once you have worn a 100% merino wool jersey the synthtic just feels plasticy and uncomfortable. For living in the northwest and riding year round nothing beats wool in the cold damp weather we have here. In summer i wear a 50/50 mix jersey for the couple times it actually gets hot yea maybe 80 for a few days in Augest. For my 50th birthday my wife bought me a new Bainbridge Island "Classic Cycles" jersey and Endura wool arm warmers iam a happy cyclist now. There are many great brands, options and weights to pick from so shop around, and if your ever on Bainbridge look up Classis Cylces and try on a couple of there jerseys, but beware once you wear wool you won't want to go back to "PLastic jerseys."
Have fun

[Llewellyn]

I just can't imagine the possibility of wearing a wool jersey in the summer over here, even in the mornings when I ride.

And I certainly can't imagine doing it when the temperature can be anywhere between 30 and 45 degrees C (although I probably wouldn't be riding when it's over 35, and definitley not when it's above 40 :eek:)

[fiamme red]

I wear wool jerseys pretty much exclusively now. For summer, I use jerseys with a lighter weave like Swobo. And it gets very hot and humid around here. Woolistic has a 100% wool superlight (http://www.vintagevelos.com/en/20-superlight-jerseys) line for the summer.

[pakora]

agree about the synthetic mixes, though for me it depends on the percentage. One 50/50 one I have is fine (though the stank gets in there) while one with less wool is kind of unbearable for the stank that has built up and wakes when sweating starts.

I totally don't get the wool is great for all seasons marketing though... my thin wool socks become unbearable when the spring starts getting warm, let alone jerseys. I've worn them with dress shoes before because I couldn't find dress socks and regretted it as soon as I was out of the house.

[MattTuck]

I totally don't get the wool is great for all seasons marketing though... my thin wool socks become unbearable when the spring starts getting warm, let alone jerseys. I've worn them with dress shoes before because I couldn't find dress socks and regretted it as soon as I was out of the house.

out of curiosity, what wool socks are you wearing? I have not had that experience at all.

[mistermo]

Not certain what you mean by that.

Take 100% wool jerseys from Woolistic: Vintage Velos (http://www.vintagevelos.com/en/26-wool-jerseys)

Or all-wool ones from Kucharik: an old-line wool company (http://www.kucharikclothing.com/-c-43_78.html)

Let alone pure-wool ones from Ibex: like this one (http://shop.ibex.com/Apparel/Mens-Ride/Giro-Full-Zip-Long-Sleeve-Jersey)

Does Rapha only mix petroleum products with sheep products?

Sorry, shameless plug.

Don't forget these 100% merino wool:
http://forums.thepaceline.net/showthread.php?p=1247764#post1247764

[palincss]

what I meant was I personally wasnt sure if there were 100% pure woool cycling tops. I thought many had 3-5% petro in them.

just havent "researched" it fully.

Start here: http://www.wabiwoolens.com/ and you'll have no reason to go any further, because these are the best by far. 100% Merino wool.

[mistermo]

Cotton cycling clothes? Really? Got a link?

My buddy in Singapore wears cotton jerseys exclusively:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEON-SPIDER-TIE-DYE-CYCLE-TEE-JERSEY-POCKETS-2X-CYCLE-T-/350651859526?pt=US_Men_s_Athletic_Apparel&hash=item51a47ac246

[gavingould]

i've been very happy with a Rapha Classic in temps up to about 80F. higher, i've reached for their Lightweight jersey.

did a metric century gravel race with the lightweight on one of the hottest days of the year (garmin reading topped out at 113F) very little wind/shade on the route. that was very very tough - doesn't help that i'm pretty hefty, so i was out there for a long time stopping anywhere with shade or water. would have liked an ultra lightweight or very light synthetic for that one, and maybe a system for perpetually dripping cold water over my entire body.

i do still wear old team kit (Voler mostly) for some rides and indoor training. it doesn't bother me in any way.

[Rueda Tropical]

For really hot weather - synthetic. 100% merino base layers in cold weather (Icebreaker or Patagonia are nice). Below 80 degrees I prefer the 100% merino or high tech high end synthetics to the wool/synth combos.

[drewski]

The Road Holkand in a nice light color is made for high humidity.
I have worn mine on 90 degree 3h days and was very comfy.

My only complaint is that its cut a little low.

[67-59]

Some of Rapha's jerseys are only 25% wool, e.g.: http://www.rapha.cc/winter-jersey. Some are all synthetic, e.g.: http://www.rapha.cc/long-sleeve-pro-team-jersey.

I believe that Rapha currently isn't selling a jersey that is more than 52% wool.

Incorrect:

http://www.rapha.cc/long-sleeve-merino-jersey

http://www.rapha.cc/track-top-1

http://www.rapha.cc/short-sleeve-merino-jersey-1

I have the short sleeve merino jersey, and it does fine for more than just "city riding" (the way Rapha advertises it).

[Birddog]

I have 5 Rapha jerseys, 4 are the club type Sportwool and 1 is the lightweight. The 4 are good for about 8 months of the year. As others have said, when it gets to about 80* they are too hot. The Lightweight is only good to about 90*. I used to have an Ibex 97% wool 3% spandex jersey but gave it to my son. You couldn't put anything in the pockets because it would sag like a mini dress.. I have an Icebreake100% merino Mtn bike jersey with a single pocket that is very lightweight and good to about 90*. Since I use a Camelback Mule there is no pocket stretch.
I have switched over to Merino Wool socks exclusively. I have not had them get too warm, they are perfect. I also have several merino Wool baselayers, both long sleeve and short sleeve. In winter with temps in the low 30's I usually wear a long sleeve Merino zip T with a short sleeve Rapha and a light jacket. Additionally, I have wool DeFeet Kneekers and Wool Defeet arm warmers. they have the best temperature range of any warmers I've tried and they still work when wet. I have a couple of wool caps too.
When it's above 90* it's all synthetic though, the wool just doesn't work for me then.

[Charles M]

I went straight back to synthetics after the first try...

[fiamme red]

Incorrect:

http://www.rapha.cc/long-sleeve-merino-jersey

http://www.rapha.cc/track-top-1

http://www.rapha.cc/short-sleeve-merino-jersey-1

I have the short sleeve merino jersey, and it does fine for more than just "city riding" (the way Rapha advertises it).In my book a real cycling jersey has three rear pockets. That one small rear pocket doesn't do it for me.

[67-59]

In my book a real cycling jersey has three rear pockets. That one small rear pocket doesn't do it for me.

Didn't know you created the definition for "real" cycling jerseys. I guess I stand corrected.:rolleyes:

[fiamme red]

Didn't know you created the definition for "real" cycling jerseys. I guess I stand corrected.:rolleyes:Rapha doesn't seem to consider these real jerseys either. They list them under "Shirts & T-Shirts," not under "Jerseys & Baselayers." :rolleyes:

[Kirk007]

In my book a real cycling jersey has three rear pockets. That one small rear pocket doesn't do it for me.

You use the canvas Rapha fanny pack with those jerseys :eek:

Wool is good. High quality wool is great. I live in it here in Seattle half a mile off the Sound. Heck I can't remember a day all summer that was too hot for a Rapha or Ibex jersey. One of these days I'll start adding wabi woolens and other selections that have emerged the past few years. I have a very hard time putting on synthetic jerseys anymore (except for the really lightweight Assos).

re the inevitable Rapha drift: Having searched the Rapha site looking for the fanny pack, I learned that I can soon buy a Rapha espresso cup and saucer for $65.00 (an extra $5 for the larger capacity cappucino cup and saucer)! So when I'm wearing my wool Rapha socks (wear out too fast but very comfy until the holes start), wool baselayer (seriously nice), sportwool jersey (I like these too, particularly the lightweight and the long sleeve ones), synthetic jacket (the original softshell has been going strong for 5? 6? years of continuous winter use), and all wool cap (also very nice with the fold down ear covers) while sitting on the deck in the rain, applying my Rapha winter embrocation, I can sip my espresso in a fully coordinated fashion - fully kitted up I'd say. I love Rapha, how can you not enjoy the wooly epicness of it all?

[67-59]

Rapha doesn't seem to consider these real jerseys either. They list them under "Shirts & T-Shirts," not under "Jerseys & Baselayers." :rolleyes:

And yet they use names like "Long Sleeve Merino Jersey" and "Short Sleeve Merino Jersey." But you're right - the tab you find them under is more important than the item itself.:rolleyes:

[bart998]

Cotton cycling clothes? Really? Got a link?

Got mine at Kucharik

[jmoore]

That's a nice jersey. If it fits and you like it, wear it. Who cares if it's 100% wool or 69/31 blend.

I have a couple of Torm jerseys and they are very nice. I'll buy more.

[fiamme red]

And yet they use names like "Long Sleeve Merino Jersey" and "Short Sleeve Merino Jersey." But you're right - the tab you find them under is more important than the item itself.:rolleyes:They call it a "zip-through luxury city cycling jersey." I call it a sweater.

[67-59]

They call it a "zip-through luxury city cycling jersey." I call it a sweater.

Thanks for your meaningful contribution this morning.

[fiamme red]

Thanks for your meaningful contribution this morning.You're very welcome! :banana: :banana: :banana:

[witcombusa]

They call it a "zip-through luxury city cycling jersey." I call it a sweater.

ya but then you can only charge 40% as much for it....;)

[fuzzalow]

I read through this thread looking for advice and what's new in the woolen world. I've use Ibex-class wool underlayers before, winter time riding use only. For me, wool was as warm as but less dryer/wicking than the Craft layers with the various Assos stuff I use through the winter. So no wool for me as a new solution to winter riding..

Although in winter after 1 1/2 hours into a 18mph headwind all the way home, there isn't any chance I'd feel less irritated or frozen no matter what synthetic or wool I was wearing.

For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, right now there's brisk in the air and just the hint of snark and snap on the forums. And this is just the beginning. May spring not be tardy.

[pakora]

I don't remember the models, but I have light and medium weight Sportwool brand ones, and lightweight Sugoi, LG, Fox and Sockguy ones of varying wool content.

Maybe my feet just get hot too - off the bike I hate wearing anything but sandals from May to October.

I totally don't get the wool is great for all seasons marketing though... my thin wool socks become unbearable when the spring starts getting warm, let alone jerseys. I've worn them with dress shoes before because I couldn't find dress socks and regretted it as soon as I was out of the house.out of curiosity, what wool socks are you wearing? I have not had that experience at all.

[MorganColeman]

Start here: http://www.wabiwoolens.com/ and you'll have no reason to go any further, because these are the best by far. 100% Merino wool.

Couldn't agree more. I've tried Ibex, Swobo, Kucharik, and Woolistic. Wabi is in a different class. One of the biggest things about wabi is how the jersey pockets don't sag - no matter what you put in them -- and they keep their shape after years and lots of miles. I occasionally wear my first wool swobo I bought may years ago, but it's hard to go back to anything else.

Morgan

[Frankwurst]

Couldn't agree more. I've tried Ibex, Swobo, Kucharik, and Woolistic. Wabi is in a different class. One of the biggest things about wabi is how the jersey pockets don't sag - no matter what you put in them -- and they keep their shape after years and lots of miles. I occasionally wear my first wool swobo I bought may years ago, but it's hard to go back to anything else.

Morgan

The owner of Wabi is a cyclist and very nice guy to boot and you're right his products are the real deal. You want heavy duty,long lasting no B.S. outdoor wool apperal Wabi's the sh*t. I've worn wool on a regular basis since the 70's.
Not just for outdoor activities but for all things in general. Hell you've never seen a sheep trying to get out of the rain or looking for a shade tree have you?:beer: