Rapha fanatics - long sleeve jersey

[Netdewt]

So, I'm really not into the super high prices that Rapha has on their goods, but I do like quality and good design. One piece of kit I don't have is a long sleeve jersey, and I've been told over and again that wool is the way to go. When it comes to wool jerseys, $165 is a pretty good deal. I don't need a reason to buy anything else in the off season (still snow and cold here), but does anyone have a review on this jersey or thoughts in general? I have never spent this much... maybe $80 max and that was on my toasty warm jacket.

http://www.rapha.cc/long-sleeve-jersey-1

http://www.rapha.cc/images/gallery/4342-01.jpg

[Idris Icabod]

I find their long sleeved offerings to be too short arm length wise. I usually wear medium in Rapha for a decent fit but the arms are about 2-3 inches too short, if I size up to large the arms are okay but the fit on the body is way too baggy. I'm about 6'1" and fairly thin, around 152 lbs and have longish arms so it may just be my freakish proportions.

They have a good return policy so you can buy in safety if it doesn't fit.

[choke]

FYI, that's not 100% wool, it's 'sportwool' (52% Merino/48% Polyester).

[DRZRM]

Yeah, its not a bad price and they are quite nice jerseys, I have one of them, But don't fool yourself into thinking you are getting the real wool experience with a sportswool blend. I don't really see the upside of the wool blends. They have the downside of poly, they eventually smell bad, but they still need to be babied as far as washing and drying.

I think their old 100% marino jerseys (the Track Top and City jerseys still are 100% marino but they don't have pockets) were much better jerseys. I'd get one of the sports series jerseys made by Wabi Woolens (or the much heavier winter jersey), they really hold up well.

[Fixed]

I have the brown it is great for cool weather riding
Cheers

[bloody sunday]

my classic SS jersey is the one I wear the most. Love the crap out of that thing.

[chomeo]

I have a long sleeve jersey from last year. with a wool base layer, it keeps me toasty down to the mid to low 50s. I like that there's a zipped pocket in the back.

[jlwdm]

I have two Rapha long sleeve jerseys. One merino and one sport wool - I like the sport wool much better.

I am 6' 2 1/2" and wear a 35" sleeve in a dress shirt. The sleeves are plenty long in a large.

Jeff

[CNY rider]

I like my Rapha stuff but Boure has a nicer long sleeve jersey that I like even better, and not too pricey.
Check it out.
http://www.boure.com/8654.html

[bobswire]

If price is a concern (as it is with me) Torm makes a nice sportwool jersey.
http://torm.cc/jerseys.html

[Netdewt]

FYI, that's not 100% wool, it's 'sportwool' (52% Merino/48% Polyester).

I did see that, but assumed there was a reason. It sounds like people are split on whether it's a good or bad thing. Hmm.

This can wait until April-May when I could use such an item, but I was thinking about it because of the word "clearance". Haha. Thanks for the input.

[FlashUNC]

I'm a fan. I've got the Belgium long sleeve country jersey. Roomy pockets and the fit isn't necessarily super race cut. Bit more of a club fit.

The sleeves are tapered at the end to give coverage on top of the wrist and a bit shorter on the inside for when you're in the actual riding position, and they flare slightly to accommodate the cuff of a glove.

As others have mentioned, I can wear the jersey -- depending on baselayer -- from the high 40s to around the high 60s or low 70s (though at that point it starts to get a bit warm.)

Unlike their regular long sleeve, it also only has a quarter zip instead of a full length zip. I know that's a deal breaker for some people, but I'm fine with it on cold weather gear.

[christian]

For $10 more you can have a Wabi Woolens sport series jersey. That would settle any thoughts I had about that.

[merckx]

I'm backing up what Christian said, Wabi Woolens is nice kit.

[kenmetzger]

I found that the sleeves were too short, as well. I ended up selling it on EBay and was able to get two jerseys from Torm that I liked better and with longer sleeves. I do like a lot of Rapha stuff, but I felt like the LS jersey was not worth it. Aesthetically I also felt like it had a bit too much sheen and looked like a sweatshirt (I had a red one).

[sandyrs]

Another alternative. Actual merino, custom colors and certain custom dimensions for no upcharge. I have their merino bibs and a full zip long sleeve jersey, both of which I love.

http://www.eleven.cc/

[teleguy57]

I like my Rapha stuff but Boure has a nicer long sleeve jersey that I like even better, and not too pricey.
Check it out.
http://www.boure.com/8654.html

+1 on the Boure LS stuff. Have one of their merino jerseys and one of the LS summer SPF jerseys (getting tired of my dermatologist taking out chunks of skin for testing -- so far nothing malignant, fortunately).

Both are well made and fit well, at least for my body shape.

[phcollard]

Another alternative. Actual merino, custom colors and certain custom dimensions for no upcharge. I have their merino bibs and a full zip long sleeve jersey, both of which I love.

http://www.eleven.cc/

That looks great. Thanks for the heads up.

[Birddog]

The advantage of Sport Wool vs 100% Merino is that they won't sag as much when you load up the pockets. I tried the 100% wool but gave up for that reason. I've found that a Merino zip T base layer with either a regular plastic or a Rapha Sport Wool over the top works best for me. Since I'm a skier, the zip T's work well when cross dressing. I have 3 weights of Zip T bases, most are medium wt but I also have a lightweight and a heavy weight if conditions require. I've found that Icebreaker, Ibex, and Smartwool all work well for my needs.

[ANAO]

If price is a concern (as it is with me) Torm makes a nice sportwool jersey.
http://torm.cc/jerseys.html

+1. I wear mine on top of 2 baselayers, arm warmers and a jersey. That's good to about 30-35* here in NYC.

Highly recommend.

[tv_vt]

The thing with wool, and most long sleeve jerseys for that matter, is that there's no windblocking on the front. You almost always end up wearing a vest with the jersey in my experience.

The only LS jersey that deals with this is the Assos Intermediate EVO jersey and its offspring. It has a windblock front panel. It is really awesome.

Base layers make a big difference, too. You could buy any LS jersey and wear it with a wool base layer and get the benefits of a wool jersey and then some. And maybe not spend as much on the combo. And have a nice wool T shirt or sleeveless top you can wear at other times.

[phcollard]

The thing with wool, and most long sleeve jerseys for that matter, is that there's no windblocking on the front. You almost always end up wearing a vest with the jersey in my experience.

The only LS jersey that deals with this is the Assos Intermediate EVO jersey and its offspring. It has a windblock front panel. It is really awesome.

Base layers make a big difference, too. You could buy any LS jersey and wear it with a wool base layer and get the benefits of a wool jersey and then some. And maybe not spend as much on the combo. And have a nice wool T shirt or sleeveless top you can wear at other times.

One of my cycling buddies who is very concerned by his look on the bike and loves merino jerseys wears a thin windblocking layer UNDER his long sleeve jersey. Eventually when it's quite cold he wears another merino layer under the said windblocker. I first found this a bit odd, but now I think it makes some sense. He still has access to all his back pockets with the merino jersey on top. And for those who don't know it makes him look super tough to ride in the cold with no visible windblocker :D

[FlashUNC]

The thing with wool, and most long sleeve jerseys for that matter, is that there's no windblocking on the front. You almost always end up wearing a vest with the jersey in my experience.

The only LS jersey that deals with this is the Assos Intermediate EVO jersey and its offspring. It has a windblock front panel. It is really awesome.

Base layers make a big difference, too. You could buy any LS jersey and wear it with a wool base layer and get the benefits of a wool jersey and then some. And maybe not spend as much on the combo. And have a nice wool T shirt or sleeveless top you can wear at other times.

+1. Big fan of Intermediate Evo too. Both jerseys work really well imo.

[MattTuck]

One of my cycling buddies who is very concerned by his look on the bike and loves merino jerseys wears a thin windblocking layer UNDER his long sleeve jersey. Eventually when it's quite cold he wears another merino layer under the said windblocker. I first found this a bit odd, but now I think it makes some sense. He still has access to all his back pockets with the merino jersey on top. And for those who don't know it makes him look super tough to ride in the cold with no visible windblocker :D

Craft Makes a Nice One. (http://www.backcountry.com/craft-zero-extreme-windstopper-top-long-sleeve-mens?ti=UExQIEJyYW5kOjoyOjEzOjEwMDAwMDIzMl9iY3NDYX QxNDAwMDAwMDM)
http://www.backcountry.com/images/items/large/CRA/CRA0363/BLA.jpg

I had meant to pick on up a few years back but never pulled the trigger. Seems perfect for those 40-50 degree days when the wind really bites into you.

[Netdewt]

I think their old 100% marino jerseys (the Track Top and City jerseys still are 100% marino but they don't have pockets) were much better jerseys. I'd get one of the sports series jerseys made by Wabi Woolens (or the much heavier winter jersey), they really hold up well.

Wabi Woolens looks nice, but they only have bright red and black. Black would be OK, but a little boring.

Torm look nice also.

Kucharik is the main hit that comes up on Google. Are they no good?

The City Jersey has one small pocket, although I would consider it slightly flamboyant. It is $125, quite a good deal for a wool jersey.

http://www.rapha.cc/images/gallery/4385-13.jpg

[FlashUNC]

Another alternative is Cima Coppi. They made our stuff for the Paceline custom bits earlier this year. I love my track jacket.

[Netdewt]

The thing with wool, and most long sleeve jerseys for that matter, is that there's no windblocking on the front. You almost always end up wearing a vest with the jersey in my experience.

So far, I have been wearing a SS jersey under a thin synthetic North Face winter baselayer I've had sitting around from skiing, or SS jersey with arm warmers - down to about 40ºF without much of a problem, but it's a little clunky and could be warmer. Below that I started using the Pearl Izumi Elite Softshell jacket I got in the fall. I haven't been using a vest, but I did get one for Christmas.

[rnhood]

A wind block layer will work best if its over a base layer (light, mid or heavy depending on the temps) as the base layer provides the insulating medium without being compromised by convective airflow. And wool is often the base layer fabric of choice since it continues to insulate even when absorbing moisture.

[teleguy57]

Craft Makes a Nice One. (http://www.backcountry.com/craft-zero-extreme-windstopper-top-long-sleeve-mens?ti=UExQIEJyYW5kOjoyOjEzOjEwMDAwMDIzMl9iY3NDYX QxNDAwMDAwMDM)
http://www.backcountry.com/images/items/large/CRA/CRA0363/BLA.jpg

I had meant to pick on up a few years back but never pulled the trigger. Seems perfect for those 40-50 degree days when the wind really bites into you.

I've been intrigued by this concept for both cycling and nordic skiing. Right now I'm using a Showers Pass Softshell Trainer (love it, love it, love it) and have a Gabba SS jersey coming in, but would still like to be able to wear my other LS jerseys in colder conditions. There was some discussion across the hall about winter clothing and several folks who tried the Craft garment hated it.

I'm still tempted to try it myself....

There also the Castelli version (http://castelli-cycling.com/en/products/detail/854/).. How can you not go for something called "Flanders"? :)

http://castelli-cycling.com/uploads/products/cache/223x290_4189_13524001.jpg

[chomeo]

Love this! thanks for the heads up on eleven.cc. seems like something I can try later.

+1 on the Assos Evo jersey. I kick myself for not buying another one.

[druptight]

I'm a big fan of my Torm jerseys, and an even bigger fan of my shutt velo jersey, although it's priced between the Torm & Rapha. The Shutt velo just has slightly nicer finishes around the edges, zips, etc - fabric is basically the same. Road Holland is also good for made in USA (and I believe their LS jersey is on sale right now), but runs a bit big so you might have to size down.

www.Torm.cc

www.shuttvr.com

http://roadholland.com/collections/mens (LS jersey on sale for $130, plus another 25% off right now using code from their main page)

I own no rapha, as I think I'm priced out of their stuff - but the above 3 companies have not failed me.

[christian]

There was some discussion across the hall about winter clothing and several folks who tried the Craft garment hated it.I think I'm the #1 hater of that garment, in several threads here and across the hall. But I have to admit, I might be changing my mind on it a little bit.

The thing to recognize is that it is VERY VERY WINDPROOF. This also means that the chest piece does not transpire very much at all, so sweating in it is quite bad. But in turn, it means that you can dress much more lightly on top than you otherwise would have.

I've found two good uses for it this year:

1) Racing cross in a skinsuit when it's really f*cking cold
2) I often ride to the local MTB park - which consists of fast riding on the road to the park, then slogging around at low speeds for an hour, then riding home. If you dress for the road part, generally, you'll be far overdressed for the MTB riding. I've found that with this piece, I can dress very lightly*, and not overheat MTBing, while still not freezing my tail off riding on the road. (*And I do mean lightly - windblocker baselayer, short-sleeve jersey, knickers around freezing.)

So for very specific uses, it's actually good. For general uses, I think a regular baselayer and thicker insulating layer (e.g. a Wabi Woolens winter jersey) is a better combo.

If you over-insulate, it's still a freakin' trash bag.

[tuscanyswe]

I find their long sleeved offerings to be too short arm length wise. I usually wear medium in Rapha for a decent fit but the arms are about 2-3 inches too short, if I size up to large the arms are okay but the fit on the body is way too baggy. I'm about 6'1" and fairly thin, around 152 lbs and have longish arms so it may just be my freakish proportions.

They have a good return policy so you can buy in safety if it doesn't fit.


Im about 6"2 and have the same issue. Also the length is to short at the waist as well if i get one with the correct arm length, large that is. Unless one is in to the bare bellybutton look. Bit weird cause usually cycling clothes are long slender fits. Raphas long sleeve jerseys definetly are not. The front zipp on a winter jersey is 58.5 cms in size large. Its my understanding that its the same on the long sleeve.

[oldpotatoe]

For $10 more you can have a Wabi Woolens sport series jersey. That would settle any thoughts I had about that.

Or a 100% Merino wool Vecchio's jersey, from a local Boulder company, Alchemist.

Jim@vecchios.com

[ColonelJLloyd]

I have several Sugoi Wallaroo 290 jerseys in short and long sleeve. 100% merino. I've had them a few years and don't know if they're still available anywhere. The long sleeve version is the most comfortable article of clothing I've ever owned.

http://www.bongbongcycles.com.au/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/700x700/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/7/3/73498-sugoi-maillot-wallaroo-290-jersey-manches-longues-gris-3.jpg

[jlwdm]

I am glad I have two Rapha long sleeve jerseys as I have not seen one jersey in the other brands listed that I would wear based on looks. Who knew it was so difficult to place a stripe on the chest or arm.

Jeff

[Netdewt]

I am glad I have two Rapha long sleeve jerseys as I have not seen one jersey in the other brands listed that I would wear based on looks. Who knew it was so difficult to place a stripe on the chest or arm.

Jeff

The Torm T5 looks quite good, as well. $100, shipping maybe $20?
http://www.Torm.cc/image/cache/t5x3-1F872C01-A816-4B6A-9D3F-DF9C72D2A7FF-200x200-q80.jpg

[druptight]

The Torm T5 looks quite good, as well. $100, shipping maybe $20?
http://www.Torm.cc/image/cache/t5x3-1F872C01-A816-4B6A-9D3F-DF9C72D2A7FF-200x200-q80.jpg

Last time I purchased a torm Long Sleeve jersey it was a few months back, the T8, and I paid 58 pounds shipped so you can do the math based on the current rates. Cost goes down when you back out VAT because it's going to the USA.

[Netdewt]

Last time I purchased a torm Long Sleeve jersey it was a few months back, the T8, and I paid 58 pounds shipped so you can do the math based on the current rates. Cost goes down when you back out VAT because it's going to the USA.

Wow, that's not bad then. It's about $100 even shipped.

[teleguy57]

I think I'm the #1 hater of that garment, in several threads here and across the hall. But I have to admit, I might be changing my mind on it a little bit.
.....But in turn, it means that you can dress much more lightly on top than you otherwise would have......

If you over-insulate, it's still a freakin' trash bag.

Ah, yes, Christian now I recall you were one of the culprits, er, contributors to the dicussion:)

Temp regulation is key with barrier layers so I'm sure I'll need to experiment if I go that route.

[teleguy57]

Or a 100% Merino wool Vecchio's jersey, from a local Boulder company, Alchemist.

Jim@vecchios.com

Will have to check that out. Never tried on one of the woolies when I picked up these.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-4vNQVZ5hShI/UgquNa0DBGI/AAAAAAAABiQ/lMYYDbK0vIg/w840-h808-no/DSC_0005.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-S-GCYtoQt1g/UgquSAOLJPI/AAAAAAAABik/bRhvmQ9rsWg/w779-h808-no/DSC_0008.JPG

I wonder if Jim will have a trade-in policy since I've lost weight and the LS is getting a bit too loose... :)

[metalheart]

Here's my experience. I have two Torm jersey's (very reasonably priced with the shipping included), one Road Holland, an all Merino Earth Wind and Rider and a Wabi. The Torm and Road Holland blends are short sleeve and I use those three seasons. The Road Holland material seems a bit softer than the Torm, but the pockets on the Torm are extraordinarily nice.

The Earth Wind and Rider is nice for cooler days, but the pockets do tend to sag. When it is cold, I put on the Wabi. It is very soft, the pockets do not sag at all, and I consider it the best overall quality of all the merino/blend jersey's I have. It would be my first choice budget no object choice. Otherwise, the blend jersey's are fine and Torm represents an excellent value.

If there is any wind, then I use a Weather Warrior wind bib under the jersey and on top of a merino base layer. It works pretty well to keep wind out.

http://www.pezcyclingnews.com/photos/tech/weather/weathwhole.jpg

I have three brands of all merino base layers: Smart wool, Rapha, and Ibex. Of those three the Ibex is the most soft and fits tight to the body, for better or worse.

[rustychisel]

Or a 100% Merino wool Vecchio's jersey, from a local Boulder company, Alchemist.

Jim@vecchios.com

and for those with access to their gear and like the wooly bully experience, check out NZs Ground Effects range

[choke]

Since we're throwing other options out....

http://www.vintagevelos.com/en/26-wool-jerseys

http://www.soigneur.co.nz/

[elevenvelo]

Hi All,

Gerard here from ELEVEN vélo. This discussion came up on our spooky analytics system and a big thanks to Sandyrs for the nice words :)

I felt the need to comment on Birdbog's comment re. Merino:

The advantage of Sport Wool vs 100% Merino is that they won't sag as much when you load up the pockets. I tried the 100% wool but gave up for that reason...

This is really not true, well not where the jersey has been designed to allow for the textile's properties. The other issue is that due to the limited nature of the types of Merino fabrics available, many use a Merino that is not right for the use and then don't allow for the stretch. A good friend of mine in over in San Francisco wore a jersey from another company and had this very issue, half way through the ride he had to tuck the jersey in!

Maybe Sandyrs can share his experiences with our Jersey but most people that ride our jersey's, including ourselves, load up the jersey pockets and there is generally no more stretch than a 'plastic' jersey.

The added plus is that you don't have any odour holding polyester laminate messing up what the Merino does best! :beer:

if you have any questions about what we do, please do not hesitate to ask. Always happy to try and help out.

Cheers,

Gerard

[Netdewt]

Hi All,

Gerard here from ELEVEN vélo. This discussion came up on our spooky analytics system and a big thanks to Sandyrs for the nice words :)


Do you guys have pictures of your LS jerseys?

[Birddog]

Hi All,


I felt the need to comment on Birdbog's comment re. Merino:



This is really not true, well not where the jersey has been designed to allow for the textile's properties. The other issue is that due to the limited nature of the types of Merino fabrics available, many use a Merino that is not right for the use and then don't allow for the stretch. A good friend of mine in over in San Francisco wore a jersey from another company and had this very issue, half way through the ride he had to tuck the jersey in!

Maybe Sandyrs can share his experiences with our Jersey but most people that ride our jersey's, including ourselves, load up the jersey pockets and there is generally no more stretch than a 'plastic' jersey.


if you have any questions about what we do, please do not hesitate to ask. Always happy to try and help out.

Cheers,

Gerard
I'd appreciate it if you would take this opportunity to explain how you address the stretch/sag issue. What specifically does your co do that others don't? My complaint wasn't about the pockets stretching, it was the whole backside of the jersey when the pockets were filled. You couldn't put a filled water bottle in the back without the jersey falling way below your butt. This first became an issue when I used the unnamed jersey in a 125 mile event in the high country where you needed to be prepared for all types of conditions (arm and leg warmers, light jacket, energy bar etc).

[oldpotatoe]

I'd appreciate it if you would take this opportunity to explain how you address the stretch/sag issue. What specifically does your co do that others don't? My complaint wasn't about the pockets stretching, it was the whole backside of the jersey when the pockets were filled. You couldn't put a filled water bottle in the back without the jersey falling way below your butt. This first became an issue when I used the unnamed jersey in a 125 mile event in the high country where you needed to be prepared for all types of conditions (arm and leg warmers, light jacket, energy bar etc).

I've had the same issue with Woolistic jerseys, when they were made in Italy and when they were made in China..I don't have this issue with my Alchemist wool jersey tho..not sure why.

[rain dogs]

and cut the jersey as we do.... That's 3 bottles of Belgian Ale being held up by our 100% wool jersey for a club in Belgium. Same European Merino being used for the Paceline Wool products, made by Cima Coppi (us in Vancouver).

http://cimacoppirides.files.wordpress.com/2014/01/marsinhell.jpg

[ColonelJLloyd]

I don't dispute your point, but that looks to be more like one liter in total.

[rain dogs]

I don't dispute your point, but that looks to be more like one liter in total.

I was told by the guys in Belgium they were the quote "large bottles"... but you're right I shouldn't have written the volume of them without knowing... I changed that.

One thing to be sure, 3 large glass bottles of beer are going to weigh a heck of a lot more than arm and leg warmers. That's definitely significant weight in those pockets.

[ColonelJLloyd]

Definitely a good amount of weight, yes. They look like Orval bottles to me (330ml). Now I'm thirsty.

[Fixed]

I've had the same issue with Woolistic jerseys, when they were made in Italy and when they were made in China..I don't have this issue with my Alchemist wool jersey tho..not sure why.

One solution I have been thinking about
one of these on my main gravel grinder
To put food ,jacket ,etc in
Cheers:)

[Birddog]

and cut the jersey as we do.... That's 3 bottles of Belgian Ale being held up by our 100% wool jersey for a club in Belgium. Same European Merino being used for the Paceline Wool products, made by Cima Coppi (us in Vancouver).

http://cimacoppirides.files.wordpress.com/2014/01/marsinhell.jpg
A picture is worth 1,000 words. That's a great visual., and it got my attention.

[metalheart]

That looks as if it is a substantial pocket! Wonder how a bottle of wine would do in there?

[elevenvelo]

I'd appreciate it if you would take this opportunity to explain how you address the stretch/sag issue. What specifically does your co do that others don't? My complaint wasn't about the pockets stretching, it was the whole backside of the jersey when the pockets were filled. You couldn't put a filled water bottle in the back without the jersey falling way below your butt. This first became an issue when I used the unnamed jersey in a 125 mile event in the high country where you needed to be prepared for all types of conditions (arm and leg warmers, light jacket, energy bar etc).

Well not really.. that would be giving away our process, no? What I can say is that we started out a few years back with a pocket that sagged rather rudely when loaded up, which was largely due to the fabric (we use a 170gsm Merino, which is quite light so the material weave matters) but also as well as the construction itself. When we changed fabric we also redesigned the area, not only for the fabric itself but also in terms of making the pocket something more than a panel stuck on the back. Seems to have worked a treat.

We are also constantly refining our designs as well (bonus of not carrying stock) and I have a few new ideas I am thinking of adding in.

@Netdewt, you know we don't.... as it's the same as our short sleeve... but with long sleeves and no one's ever asked! I think it's time to add to the gallery with some long sleeve pics...

[Netdewt]

and cut the jersey as we do.... That's 3 bottles of Belgian Ale being held up by our 100% wool jersey for a club in Belgium. Same European Merino being used for the Paceline Wool products, made by Cima Coppi (us in Vancouver).

http://cimacoppirides.files.wordpress.com/2014/01/marsinhell.jpg

These look pretty awesome.

Anyone have an opinion on whether LS jerseys make any sense? Or is it better to stick with SS + warmers?

[sandyrs]

My eleven jersey has no pocket sag whatsoever. They specified that on their site and that was a big reason I bit the bullet and made the purchase. The jersey hasn't disappointed- it holds a normal pocket's worth of stuff (tools, wallet, tube, pump, whatever) as well as any jersey I have. I have a woolistic jersey that, ahem, does not. One thing I will note is that the merino in the jersey is quite thin. I did manage to get a small tear in a sleeve being careless while pulling off the jersey (I was finishing up a long ride, was a little out of it, and pulled WAY too hard on the wrist area). Nothing a needle and thread didn't fix and it was completely my fault. Just don't try to rip the thing off like they're tearaway pants and you'll be fine. The jersey has been washed and worn a few times since the repair with no indication of any further issues. I really recommend Eleven. Again, the rip was totally my own fault and should not be taken as an indicator of anything other than my own clumsiness/idiocy.

Here is a shot of my jersey (and bibs, which are black with light blue stitching and absolutely wonderful).

http://distilleryimage11.ak.instagram.com/c9d36d6e5d5d11e38e630e8f3fbee28a_8.jpg

[metalheart]

Regarding the eleven jersey, is the Merino of such a weight that a short sleeve version could be used as a 3 1/2 season jersey? I stop wearing the wool blend jersey's I have at about 85 degrees and my all wool long sleeves are late fall/winter only.

[sandyrs]

Regarding the eleven jersey, is the Merino of such a weight that a short sleeve version could be used as a 3 1/2 season jersey? I stop wearing the wool blend jersey's I have at about 85 degrees and my all wool long sleeves are late fall/winter only.

I think so. It's definitely not thick enough to wear in the winter without a jacket or vest over it, so I expect it will be comfortable in the warmer temps, but I've only worn it in temps of 50 or below.

[Netdewt]

Does a long sleeve even make sense? Should I stick with SS + warmers?

Any experience with Solo? I just heard of this brand. This one looks a bit more like a jacket, though.
http://www.solocycleclothing.com/cycling-jerseys/equipe-cycling-jersey-black.html

[FlashUNC]

A long sleeve makes sense for me. If my ride isn't going to be above 65 before I'm home, and starts in the 40's or 50's, a long sleeve can make a ton of sense over arm warmers and a SS jersey.

But I ride with plenty of guys who go with SS jersey, arm warmers and a vest. Whatever floats your boat.

[pdmtong]

Long sleeve provides better shoulder coverage versus arm warmers
You may or may not care

[Netdewt]

I went with a like new Torm T5 from d14vd_h on the forum. Looks great!

[gmonster]

So, I'm really not into the super high prices... maybe $80 max

You can get the same sort of wool-blend material, with a made in America product for $80 right now - as Road Holland put their long sleeves on clearance. http://roadholland.com/collections/outlet

http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0226/2761/files/autodrop_large.png?424

[technicolor]

I was disappointed in the Road Holland jerseys. The side pockets are too shallow/loose and the center pocket is so narrow you can't hardly fit a banana in there. I'd spend the extra $$$ on Rapha.

[gmonster]

I was disappointed in the Road Holland jerseys. The side pockets are too shallow/loose and the center pocket is so narrow you can't hardly fit a banana in there. I'd spend the extra $$$ on Rapha.

The new long sleeves have a two large pocket design with a 5inch zipper pocket to hold your cell... so no more middle pocket banana holder! (or what is really wide enough for an iPhone.)

http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0226/2761/products/4_5046415e-f08e-491d-8841-e6e70d4f8df5_1024x1024.jpg?v=1390273156

[dhalbrook]

I've found that Icebreaker, Ibex, and Smartwool all work well for my needs.

I'd second Icebreaker and Ibex. The former is currently 30% off.

[gdw]

"I'd second Icebreaker and Ibex."

and GoLite. If you don't need pockets these are a real bargain at $49.
http://www.golite.com/Mens-Embarker-14-Zip-Wool-Sweater-P47019.aspx
The weave isn't as dense as an Ibex Shak but they're all I need under a windproof top down to around 20 degrees. They had quite a few available for $20 and $30 during their samples and seconds sale earlier this week at the store on Pearl Street in Boulder.