Chapeau! Etape jersey

Chapeau! might have an exclamation mark in its name, but the Etape jersey metaphorically removes it by virtue of its understated, minimal design. Some might want more interesting looks for their £100, but if you appreciate subtlety then the Etape is a very comfortable race-fit jersey for more serious (and even non-serious) riders.

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As a ghostly pale and profusely sweaty reviewer, I'm always on the lookout for dark yet breathable materials in my bike jerseys... and this one ticks both boxes. In temperatures of up to 27°C on a three-hour ride I didn't burn and I was kept pretty cool thanks to the mesh underarm panels and moisture-wicking properties in the fabric.

If you've taken a liking to the Etape jersey then it's worth mentioning that it sizes up a little small – not Castelli small, but I'd advise going up a size if you're in between. Chapeau's size guide says the medium is for a 38-41in chest, but I'd beg to differ being dead on a 38-inch chest usually, and feeling like the Etape fitted me very snugly (it's not me in the pics). Sizes go from small to double XL so most of us are covered.

As well as the three usual rear pockets, there's a fourth zipped one with a waterproof liner which did its job and kept my phone dry. The main three are a little on the small side because they’re tight to the back of the jersey, but otherwise perfectly functional.

At £99.99 the Etape is £30 more than the previous version Ash reviewed last year, and for that you get slimmer pocket seams and a lighter jersey overall, plus smaller details like a housing over the zipper for extra comfort. It's less than premium offerings from the likes of Rapha and Assos, but in my opinion it's more comfortable than dhb's Aeron Speed jersey at £55, as an example of a lower-priced race jersey I've tested recently.

Chapeau! does operate a free crash replacement policy – which could make the £100 price tag a little more palatable...

> Buyer's Guide: 15 of the best summer cycling jerseys

Overall, the Etape didn't absolutely wow me but I'd happily wear it all year round either on its own or with a jacket on top in cooler climes. The pockets are a decent size and those who appreciate a clean, simple design and a form fit will like it. Apart from some slight snagging to the logo after a few washes, it seems to be pretty durable too.

Verdict

A nicely understated race-fit jersey that will keep you cool, but it is on the pricey side