dhb Blok Diamond Jersey Review
Wiggle's in-house clothing brand - dhb have launched a range of vibrant coloured clothing for their 2016 Autumn/Winter collection. The new Blok range features the Diamond, Prism and Grid designs. We got our hands on the new short sleeve dhb Blok Diamond Jersey.
The Technology
dhb launched their Blok clothing 3 years ago. The range broke away from the conventional colour-schemes of cycling clothing - introducing bold patterns and adding splashes of neon pinks, blues and oranges to their clothing. 3 years on, the colours are just as vivid and loud. The dhb Blok Diamond jersey is a mid-weight jersey with a performance fit. This means it is designed to fit somewhere between a relaxed fit and a race or form fit. The jersey is made from 100% polyester (pretty common practice now) and features a full-length YKK zip. The dhb Blok Diamond jersey is available in 3 colour options - blue/turquoise, purple or black/pink/blue and sizing ranges from XS - XXL.
The fabric has a anti-bacterial properties which are designed to help the jersey stay fresher for much longer. The dhb Blok Diamond jersey also provides protection from the sun with a UVP30+ rating. Other features include a silicone gripper strip around the bottom of the jersey to help prevent it riding up. There are also 3 good-sized pockets on the back of the jersey and one small vertical zip pocket which sits nicely on the side of the right pocket. The base of the pockets feature just enough reflective detail to be significant.
In Use
There are so many different jerseys available for cyclists now. It means that we have more choice than ever to find something that meets our own personal preferences and needs. Its great to see companies like dhb continuing to expand their styles and designs to cater for even the fussiest of riders like myself. Testing an XXL size, the dhb Blok Diamond jersey was close fit but not tight. Starting at the top, the collar of the jersey is a sensible length and unlike some jerseys it's not too restrictive. I found it very comfortable - even when fully zipped up. The full-length YKK zip pull is small enough to sit nicely tucked away. But its not too fiddle to open mid-ride if you need to cool down.
Historically I found dhb tops came up a bit short in the body. I'd be pulling the back of the jersey down most of the ride. At 190cm tall, a jersey/top that is too short can be incredibly annoying. However, the company now seem to have their sizing about right. The sleeves on the dhb Blok Diamond jersey are slightly longer cut - similar to an aero-style jersey - although not as fitted. I found this gave a good freedom of movement without them riding up, in just about any position on the handlebars.
During rides it didn't take long in the saddle to be impressed by its overall performance. There is no getting away from the fact that the dhb Blok Diamond jersey is very comfortable. I was perfectly happy both commuting and on longer 'Sunday rides' in it and the fabric is comfortable in most temperatures. As I mentioned earlier, the jersey is a mid-weight, so it can be worn comfortably on its own on hotter days or with a base layer on cooler rides. I did test the jersey on a couple of high tempo 'training rides'. Whilst the fabric is very breathable, jersey did struggle to wick away sweat. By the end of the ride, the it was a bit clingy and I could wring it out. To be fair, it was a very hot day and I think a lot of jersey's would have struggled.
One of the nice things about dhb's clothing more recently, is the fact the fabric has an anti-bacterial treatment. This really helps the life-span of the jersey and after repeated uses and washes, the jersey is still nice and fresh. The triple pockets on the back are suitably large enough to provide ample storage room. The zip pocket is ideal for carrying cash or valuables - or even used energy gel/bar wrappers.
dhb Blok Diamond Jersey Review Conclusion
dhb have got themselves a real all-rounder in this jersey. The Blok Diamond jersey is as comfortable to wear commuting with a rucksack as it is on a long weekend 'club ride'. The inclusion of bright colours and bold designs are a refreshing break away from a more traditional style - although the 3 colour options and bright patterns may not meet everyone's taste. The cut of the jersey sits nicely when riding and the longer sleeve length is surprisingly comfortable. I didn't find myself adjusting them or pull them down all the time. In fact - it is hard to fault the overall comfort and performance of this jersey. From a price point the dhb Blok Diamond jersey retails at £45.00 from Wiggle. We think this is reasonable for a jersey that ticks the boxes for performance, comfort and style.