Altura NightVision 4 Long Sleeve Jersey
The Altura Nightvision range is now on its 4th series. The British brand has redesigned its flagship technology and produced a new range of NightVision clothing and accessories. With commuting by bike still heavily on our minds through the colder months - we gave the Altura NightVision 4 long sleeve jersey as test.
The Technology
The Altura Nightvision 4 long sleeve jersey made from 100% Polyester. Its designed to be worn as an outer layer - or a mid-layer on colder rides. The Altura Thermo fabric is brushed on the inside. This is to maximise insulation, whilst wicking sweat away from the body. There is an adequate silicon gripper around the inside hem.
The outside of the jersey features Altura's new NightVision technology - which the company describes as having "superior retroreflectivity and bounceback luminosity - for increased visibility"! The NightVision reflective print sits across the chest, shoulders and lower back of the jersey. There are also reflective logos which are strategically positioned on the for-arms and collarbone.
The rear of the jersey has 3 good sized pockets. There is the addition of a small zipped pocket for valuables. There is a full length zip with a that sits nicely under a small flap at neck level.
The Altura NightVision 4 long sleeve jersey comes in 3 different colours options. Yellow/Blue, Red/Blue and Teal/Blue in the men's. The women's jersey is available in Pink/Blue, Blue/Yellow and Purple/Blue. All colours come with the same reflective print pattern. Sizes are available from S - XXL (UK) in the men's jersey and from UK 8 - UK 18 in the women's jersey. The Altura NightVision 4 jersey has a list price of £59.99 in both gender options.
In Use
Being a cycling commuter - I was excited to test the Altura NightVision 4 jersey. Its unique styling offered something a nice balance between the traditional 'reflective detail' and the bolder full-reflective clothing. The brushed fabric on the inside of the jersey is soft and very comfortable. The outside of the jersey resembles a retro tracksuit top. Being 100% Polyester, it has that same kind of finish that you might find on a 1980's Ellesse or Fila tracksuit.
As you might expect - the Altura NightVision 4 jersey offers excellent visibility. This is thanks to the 360 degree reflective print design.
I tested the jersey on a number of commutes where the temperature sat in the single figures. The jersey works as a suitable outer layer in cooler conditions. The 'Thermo' fabric is warm but also very breathable. I wore a long sleeve, winter base layer on colder rides and jersey did a good job of staying insulated. Although it is not particularly windproof.
The cut of the jersey is a relaxed. This makes movement a lot easier for commuting - especially if you a carrying a rucksack. Although the NightVision 4 ticked just about everything I could want from a commuter jersey, it came up short in the fit. Literally! I initially tried an XL (111cm chest) but this was very small. I changed to the XXL (116cm) which was much better fit. However, the jersey still comes up slightly short in the body and more-so in the sleeve length.
This became a little frustrating when riding in a more aggressive riding position.
Altura NightVision 4 Long Sleeve Jersey Review Conclusion
The Altura NightVision 4 long sleeve jersey has plenty to offer. The standout feature of a 360 degree reflective print will attract the night riders or cycling commuter world. Despite these being the target market - the casual styling and relaxed cut make the jersey a great option for general cycling. Sadly, I can't get passed the unusual fit of the jersey I tested. I'm 6'3 and often find sleeve length an issue, but this seems to be made for riders approximately 6 foot and under. The overall performance is very good. Its comfortable and the brushed fabric provides decent insulation. The colour options may not suit everyone. Considering the large amount of reflectivity - I'm a little surprised there isn't a plain black option. If you are looking for a suitably warm and comfortable jersey with excellent visibility for riding after dark - the Altura NightVision 4 LS jersey is a good option.