After being very impressed with Velocio’s Trail collection in the summer, we were keen to try their autumnal offering; the long sleeve version of their micromodal jerseys.

You know that piece of cycling kit that you adore so much that you’re forever waiting for it to come out of the laundry basket so you can wear it again? This autumn, the micromodal long sleeve has been my go-to piece of kit.

On test

The long sleeve evolved from Velocio’s micromodal tee, which I reviewed back in the summer as part of their Trail collection. Soft and simple, the tee became a staple of summer riding, for both gravel rides, mountain biking and even a few chilled road rides.

It makes total sense for Velocio to build on the success of their micromodal tees and jerseys to offer a long sleeve suitable for the transition months. Soft as pyjamas against the skin, the fabric is made from Modal, which fascinatingly is derived from beech trees.

The jersey itself is 82% micromodal, 14% elastane to give a stretchy, close figure-hugging fit, and 4% carbon thread, which according to Velocio has both an anti-microbial function and adds strength. As carbon is such a buzz word in cycling (or general engineering for that matter), I’m a little sceptical about that one, but I’ll let the performance of the top do the talking.

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The fit is certainly figure-hugging, like a conventional long sleeve road cycling jersey or jacket. Photo: Tom Farrell of The Woods Cyclery

With a football jersey inspired low collar, long sleeves and a silicone gripper backed elastic hem, there’s no room for chafing. Without a zip, the jersey takes on a casual style and feel, which is something that I’m personally coming to admire more and more from my cycling kit. This jersey would be just as practical for a run or hike as it would on the bike, which is a quality that’s really rated.

Once you get over the feeling of going for a ride in your PJs (yes really, it is that soft), the technical properties of the Micromodal fabric come into play. Held up to the light, you’ll actually see that the jersey’s material is quite thin, and perforated by a grid of tiny holes all over the main navy body piece and also on the grey sleeves. This thin fabric construction keeps off the wind chill while also enabling great moisture wicking. At this time of year that’s especially important, as anyone who’s stopped for a coffee and let the sweat cool will know about rapid chilling!

Handy for both gravel and MTB rides, with lycra shorts, baggies or trousers.

Just like Velocio’s shorter sleeve Micromodal Jersey, there are three pockets on the lower back, reinforced with a stability panel on the inside so that they don’t sag or move when filled. Riding with a bumbag for all my tools, spares and snacks, I’ve rarely used these, but they have come in handy for my phone. I like to keep it easily accessible for on-the-bike snaps whenever inspiration hits!

The combination of silicone gripper and elastic for the hem makes for a stable fit around the hips, which works well with either bibshorts or baggies, with minimal movement. The branding is a subtle as ever for Velocio, with a reflective logo on the chest, small word logo on the rear left hand side next to a small coloured tab. You’ll also find reflective tabs on the backs of the arms.

The jersey is easy to team up with a gilet for nippier days. Photo: Tom Farrell of The Woods Cyclery

I’ve tried the Velocio Micromodal long sleeve both on it’s own and with a windproof gilet for longer or breezier days. Even though it’s got pretty mucky at times, it washes out well every time, which I think is helped by the darker two-tone colourway. On the MTB I really enjoy how light it feels, keeping off the chill and making me feel more confident on descents with my skin covered (yes, that’s a thing!) while still not being too hot on the techy climbs.

Verdict

Autumnal weather can be unpredictable; cold snaps, surprisingly warm afternoons in the sun, breezy days where the wind can chill fast. This highly technical, yet deceptively causal styled jersey is the perfect solution, for your top half at least! Great breathability is combined with skin coverage for windier days, and can easily be paired with a gilet for longer rides.

The fit is certainly figure-hugging, so if you prefer looser fitting long sleeve tees, check out their Delta Long Sleeve tees.

With sizes ranging from XXS to XXXL and brilliant sizing info on the website, there should be fits for most riders.

My only criticism would be that more colourways would be great!