Cafe Du Cycliste Lucienne Jersey

The Lucienne lightweight merino jersey from Cafe du Cycliste offers great materials & features but it isn't cheap.

The mix of materials combine well to provide a jersey that feels light and soft to the touch; ideal for summer rides when you can forgo a base layer and just get away with a jersey. Using 73% polyester, 20% merino wool and 7% polyamide allows the jersey to feel good next to the skin but retain merino's moisture wicking properties.

This is essential if you don't have another layer to assist. If the temperature climbs you want to ensure that if you're working hard then the jersey will regulate your temperature.

The Lucienne is billed as Cafe du Cycliste's summer jersey and you can see why. With these properties it does a good job of allowing the body to breathe and expel sweat without feeling as if the jersey is soaked in water. The other advantage with this is the lack of odour retention.

The back of the jersey is split into three panels with the middle one having a thinner construction to allow you to breathe better. This lightweight paneling is also used under the arms. The sleeves are finished with a stretchy cuff that gives enough grip to keep it in place.

On the rear you have your standard three pockets although it has to be said they are a little narrower than on others. You also get a zipped security pocket which is big enough for a phone, money or card. On the extreme edge of the band of pockets you get a a reflective strip on each side. On the left hand pocket as you look at the Lucienne there is a small eyelet on the inside of the jersey which allows you to run a headphone lead to the shoulder on the same side where there is a second exit point. Another little feature that is included with no fuss. A small embroidered Trois Cols badge on the rear is a nice touch.

On the front you get a full length zip with a decent size collar to keep out early morning chill should you need it.

The final thing to mention is the colour. Described as Dusty Green it is offset by the black bands on the sleeve cuffs and the zip. There is another colour variant on offer, last year's version which is available in grey. To be honest the dusty green is much more in keeping with today's cafe culture look.

When you put the jersey on it does feel soft and is a good snug fit. The medium was fine for me and I normally take a large when it comes to Italian brands so the Lucienne is more in keeping with everyday sizes.

Even on particularly warm days the jersey has been a rewarding wear. Keeping its shape and style it did a good job of letting the heat and moisture out so I didn't over heat. After several washes it still retains the same feel. Having reviewed last year's version of this jersey it is good to see the good work continue although very little has changed.

The only point of contention is the cost, you're paying £117 for this jersey and while it is very good some will baulk at the price.

Verdict

Good-looking jersey that performs well in hot weather but the price may cause you to overheat