Northwave Sonic Short Sleeve Jersey

Northwave's Sonic is a mid-range jersey designed for Spring/Summer rides using lightweight fabrics and a full length zip. Its part of the Sport range which means the cut isn't quite as snug and tailored as the Race kit but is a bit more shaped than the recreational Active range.

The main body is made from Lightech fabric which is a thin, highly elastic Lycra-like material with a smooth finish like that seen on so many performance jerseys these days. Northwave claim it's highly breathable - it's certainly breathable enough and if it does get damp it dries rapidly.

The side panels use more of a mesh knit that covers a large area taking in part of the chest, the underarm and up over the rear of the shoulders letting a lot of air pass through controlling body temperature pretty well.

A thicker knit is used on the shoulders for a bit of added abrasion resistance should you end up decking it - also useful should you find yourself riding with a back pack.

The fit is quite relaxed, especially around the stomach and chest area though I wouldn't go so far as to call it baggy. I also find that Northwave's sizing is larger than the other Italian manufacturers being a bit more like dhb's.

Silicone grippers on the arms and waist keep the jersey in place and you also get a slightly dropped tail. The traditional three rear pockets now seems to becoming four on most jerseys as it is here on the Sonic, the zipped pocket is part of the main middle one and is ideal for valuables like your mobile and bank cards. Both the middle and zipped pocket are made from the heavier knit material used on the shoulders so these are best used for your heavier items as there is very little sag. The other two offer plenty of room for energy kit and tubes.

The build quality looks impressive and the materials are certainly proving to be hardwearing. Northwave have left the branding pretty minimal which makes for a clean looking top.

The short sleeve model here is part of a set which includes a light jacket, gilet, long sleeve jersey, sleeveless and a short sleeved option with a hidden zip and its all good looking kit. This short sleeve comes in white, red or black or there is a bright orange or green versions which are part of Northwave's Be Visible Be Safe range. All of them get a small amount of reflective material though.

Overall the Sonic is a good bit of kit especially for the £55 asking price with plenty of quality and stylish looks. Its comfortable to wear especially on warmer days as the breathability is very effective and its quick drying to should you get caught out in the rain. The fit is much more relaxed than the likes of Castelli's offerings but should suit fine if you ride at a slightly more relaxed pace than weekend racer types.

Verdict

Smart looking cycling jersey with bags of Italian style for those who want to ride but not race on warmer days