Bontrager Classique Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey

The Bontrager Classique Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey is a fantastic example of a simple design done well. Where many other companies strive for innovative new materials, Bontrager has chosen a merino wool Profila Thermal fabric and created a classic winter jersey that wicks well, has great thermal qualities and looks superb.

The Classique jersey uses merino wool throughout, with no mesh, secondary windproof layer or marketing friendly new technology. This means it does everything that you would expect from a material that has been used for years – it keeps you warm, wicks sweat and is very comfortable.

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Thanks to the Profila Thermal fabric the jersey is very warm. I found I could easily wear this without a baselayer and just a windproof layer over the top down to around 5°C, and on colder days with just a regular baselayer. Underneath a light softshell jacket it got a bit too hot at around 8°C, which shows just how warm this is.

Happily, this warmth is combined with the kind of wicking and breathability you would expect from merino wool, so it manages to not only moderate your temperature, but also stop you from getting too sweaty in the process.

The cut of the jersey is very much racing, but with the stretch of the fabric used throughout it doesn't feel restrictive at all. It is also soft and comfortable against the skin, as you'd expect from merino. It stays in place well thanks to the subtle but effective set of silicone grippers at the bottom of the hem. There is only one non-removable label within it too, which is made of very soft material meaning there is no chafing at all.

It has the traditional three pockets on the back, each of which has ample room, and all are easy to access and secure when on the road. There is also the slightly modern touch on the pockets of a high-vis band running down both sides, so despite the very classic look, this jersey doesn't suffer from a lack of modern practicalities.

In addition to the three regular pockets, there is also one buttoned valuables pocket, ideal for smartphones, keys or wallets, again a nod to the modern elements of jersey design.

> Check out our guide to the best winter jerseys here

There are obviously some slight drawbacks of using merino wool, such as the lack of waterproofing and it isn't totally windproof. When it did get damp during a shower it was relatively quick drying, not a huge problem.

With an rrp of £134.99, the jersey certainly isn't cheap, but for something this well made and good looking I'd say it's a fair price. It uses top quality materials and has been put together brilliantly, incorporating modern twists in a classic design. It's genuinely one of my favourite winter jerseys from the past few years.

Verdict

One of my favourite winter jerseys from the past few years, classic with modern luxuries