Giro, probably best known for its well-regarded helmets and shoes, has a comfortable and well-made jersey in the Chrono Expert.
The Chrono range has two tiers: Pro and Expert. This Expert version is the more relaxed of the two, designed for longer days in the saddle, and is constructed of a 100% polyester fabric. As a result, to behold, it's nothing particularly special – certainly, for £74.99, at first glance it would appear you're paying for the brand name, as there are countless polyester jerseys on the market that are much cheaper. But to limit my review to that would do Giro a disservice, because the fit and cut of the Chrono Expert is very good indeed.
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Featuring raglan cut sleeves, it fits my wide swimmer's frame very comfortably, and the slim cut through the waist is just that: slim, without being restricting.
You won't find any grippers on the sleeve, which for those who chafe easily in this area will be a bonus, but you do have a lightweight silicone gripper band around the waist. It's a slimline band, so it's not actually noticeable when you wear the jersey, yet performs the job it's designed for and keeps the jersey in place.
There are three standard rear pockets, all of which are easy to reach into. They're not the biggest, but the polyester fabric on the outside is rather stretchy, allowing them to expand a little when needed. Additionally, there's a horizontally-zipped pocket for valuables, though it's not waterproof.
Build quality is good, with well-stitched seams on the inside, and the zip functions easily on the move if you want a little extra ventilation. On top of that, the cut at the neckline is comfortable too – you can ride this jersey zipped all the way to the chin with no issues.
The great thing about polyester is it'll wash easily too – no need to worry too much about sticking it on a 40 degree cycle, as it'll come back nicely regardless.
> Check out our guide to the best summer jerseys
There are four colourways available, matching up with the bib shorts of the same name, so offering a good quality all-day matching kit set if that's your thing.
Overall, then, this is a perfectly decent jersey. There's nothing to make it stand out from the crowd, but at the same time there's nothing holding it back.
Verdict
Comfortable and well made, if a little basic for the price
Make and model: Giro Chrono Expert Jersey
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
Giro says: "When you want to make a colorful statement and proudly display Giro as your brand of choice, reach for the Men's Chrono Expert Jersey. Made with a stretch polyester, this jersey will keep you feeling comfortable on any ride you choose. The lightweight fabric is up to the challenge of long days in the saddle in warmer temperatures, and raglan sleeves provide freedom to move. The classic three rear pockets are enhanced by a fourth secure zip storage pocket for your valuables."
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
- Center front zipper
- 3 pockets
- Secure zip pocket
- Stretch wicking polyester
- Race fit
- 100% polyester, 160 g/m2
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
Solidly built. No worries here.
Rate the product for performance:
7/10
A cool jersey for warm conditions. The fabric is basic, but works.
Rate the product for durability:
8/10
Simple polyester construction, should last well.
Rate the product for fit:
8/10
Comfortable, especially across the shoulders, with enough stretch to expand when needed.
Rate the product for sizing:
6/10
A medium was perfect for me, which is unusual as I normally go with a large.
Rate the product for weight:
8/10
Lightweight construction from the polyester, at 169g on our scales.
Rate the product for comfort:
8/10
No complaints, especially with the excellent raglan sleeves.
Rate the product for value:
6/10
It's quite a high price, and I can't help thinking you're paying for the brand name. However, there's noting fundamentally wrong, so you're getting decent quality for your money.
How easy is the product to care for? How did it respond to being washed?
Fine. Recommended cold wash, but you can get away with 40 degrees.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
It performed perfectly well.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
The sleeves, and the cut is very comfortable.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
Nothing. Perhaps that the zipped pocket isn't at least water resistant.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? No – too expensive for what it is, for me.
Would you recommend the product to a friend? It's a solid option overall.
Use this box to explain your score
A fairly premium price doesn't quite match up to what's on offer, features-wise, but it's a hard jersey to fault in performance terms.
Age: 26 Height: 188cm Weight: 83kg
I usually ride: Specialized Allez Sport My best bike is:
I've been riding for: Under 5 years I ride: Most days I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: time trialling, club rides, sportives, general fitness riding
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