dhb Classic Short Sleeve Jersey
dhb have gone with a stripe design for their 2018 short sleeve jersey. There are two design variations for the men's jersey. A striped chest panel design on the standard jersey, or there is a Breton stripe option. Both look very smart but we favoured the Breton finish to test the dhb Classic Short Sleeve Jersey.
The Technology
The dhb Classic range sits somewhere in between the brands pro Aeron range and the recreational Blok range. The lightweight mesh fabric is made from 100% Polyester. The jersey cut is a performance fit. This means that the jersey is a close fit without being skin tight. The dhb Classic short sleeve jersey has a narrow, full-length YKK zip with a lock down zip-pull. There is an internal flat that works as zip guard, to prevent the zip from rubbing.
The collar length is sensible and not intrusive, while the sleeves are slightly longer. There is no gripper around the arms, but the length and slim design help the sleeves stay in place.
There are 3 open rear pockets on the back. These are a good size for carrying all of your ride essentials. There is also a concealed vertical zip pocket on the right of the rear pockets. This gives you a secure option for carrying items like money or bank cards, or even a mobile phone.
The jersey features a silicon grip around the hem to help prevent the jersey from riding up. The Breton jeresy is available in 3 colour options. white with navy stripes, navy with red stripes or navy with blue and white stripes (the same as out test jersey).
In Use
I have been a fan of the dhb classic range in the past but always found it to be quite a recreational and relaxed fit. I really like the cut and shape of the 2018 jersey. The stripe pattern is simple and the colours are plain, but it all works. Although the choice is somewhat limited. Sometimes jersey collars can irritate or feel constrictive. But the collar on the Classic Jersey is a sensible depth and it didn't irritate or rub whilst riding. The full length zip is a bit on the small side but I like the fact it locks down when the jersey is zipped up. dhb have not added the elasticated grippers around the sleeves, as there are on some jerseys. I found this really comfortable whilst riding as I could move around and change positions without any restriction.
The dhb Classic Short Sleeve Jersey is designed to be close fitting but not figure-hugging. If you are a fan of a looser fitting jersey, I would suggest you look at a size (or two) bigger. When it comes to sizing, I find that dhb clothing comes up a size smaller. This seems to be almost expected for cycling clothing. For reference - I am about 190cm (just over 6'2) and the XXL was a good fit. Being taller, the jersey length comes up good. When hunched over in an aero riding position, it was nice to find the jersey not half way up my back. The men's jersey is available in sizes XS (89.5 - 93cm) to XXL (109.5 - 113cm).
The Polyester mesh fabric is lightweight and comfortable and has a stretch to it. I tested the jersey by riding a couple of short, high paced rides warmer days. The Classic Jersey doesn't feel as breathable as that of the higher-end dhb Aeron Jersey. But the fabric draws moisture well and at no point in any of my test rides did I feel uncomfortable. The pockets are suitably deep enough to carry most of your ride essentials. I managed to fit a Gilet, mobile phone, energy gels/bars, inhaler and a Lezyne Caddy Sack - without the pockets feeling like I might lose something. I like the zip pocket. It is well positioned - allowing access whilst riding. It is also a sensible size - so you can fit items such as a mobile inside.
dhb Classic Short Sleeve Jersey Review Conclusion
The dhb Classic Short Sleeve Jersey combines a simplistic style and design - with a modern, technical fabric that's comfortable and lightweight. The stripe design on the Breton in particular - is neat and eye-catching without being in-your-face. The colour options are a bit disappointingly limited. There is effectively a choice of blue or white as a base colour. We have come to expect a wider range from dhb. Be cautious about the sizing. The performance fit is very comfortable, yet close enough for those wanting to get down and aero. The pockets are a decent size and can hold plenty. While there is a well positioned zip pocket for secure carriage of items. The price is sensible for such a jersey. The list price of £45.00 (discounted Wiggle Gold and Platinum members), which we feel is certainly good value.
dhb Classic Short Sleeve Jersey available from:Wiggle - £45.00Chain Reaction Cycles - £45.00