From the first snowmelt to the return of winter’s chill, cycling remains one of the most popular ways to enjoy the outdoors. Whether navigating winding streets or feeling the rush of air as you push your wattage to the limit, cycling is more than just a workout—it’s a lifestyle. You might already have the bike and helmet, but to truly maximize performance, you need the right apparel. Comfort, breathability, and ease of movement all start with a great jersey. In this guide, we’ll explore the best cycling jerseys of 2025, covering everything from modern aero jerseys for peak summer rides to long-sleeved jerseys for cooler days so that you can stay aerodynamic, comfortable, and ready for the road or trails ahead.
Key Features to Look For in a Cycling Jersey
There are several things to consider before buying your first or next jersey. If you’re unsure what to look for to get the most out of its performance, we’ll break them down here:
Material and Breathability
Most cycling jerseys are made from lightweight, breathable material, typically blends of polyester and nylon. These fabrics are commonly found in performance cycling gear and activewear in general because they make the ideal main body fabric. Nylon and polyester are lightweight, durable, and moisture-wicking to provide the perfect blend of heat management, stretch, comfort, and water-resistance for long rides through varying weather.
Fit and Comfort
When choosing a cycling jersey, fit is just as important as fabric. A close fit helps reduce wind drag in the riding position, but it shouldn’t be so tight that it restricts movement or feels uncomfortable on long rides. The best cycling jerseys strike a balance between aerodynamics and comfort, with sizing and lengths suited to your body type.
Sleeve length is another key factor. Short-sleeve jerseys are perfect for hot weather and peak summer rides, while long-sleeved jerseys can provide extra UV protection, warmth for cooler conditions, and a great base layer when paired with arm warmers or compression sleeves.
Weather Considerations
Many riders keep both options of fit on hand to handle a range of seasons and riding conditions. Inclement weather doesn’t have to waylay your planned day on the bike, as long as it’s not dangerously severe. Still, preparation is important. Modern aero jerseys with full-length zippers and mesh panels are ideal for hot rides, allowing you to regulate heat and airflow as you go. For cooler conditions or long-distance riding in unpredictable weather, a comfortable jersey made from warmer fabrics such as merino wool can offer extra warmth without excess fabric. Water- and wind-resistant main body fabrics are a cyclist’s best bet for tackling rainy days or breezy gravel riding routes.
Pockets and Storage Options
Jerseys with built-in pockets can feel like a godsend during long riding adventures. It’s often the smallest details that make the biggest difference when it comes to comfort and performance. Whether you’re storing gels, snacks, or essentials like your phone and keys, having enough space is crucial. Look for jerseys that feature deep or well-structured rear pockets that minimize pocket sag and keep items secure. Many of the best cycling jerseys also feature a zipped valuables pocket for extra security on rougher terrain. When it comes to pockets, the short answer is: the more options, the better.
The Top Cycling Jerseys
Editor's Choice
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Peppermint Cycling Co. is a band dedicated to creating the best women’s cycling apparel. Their Classic Jersey has everything you could need in a simple design meant for casual riding days. Made with premium Italian materials, both breathable and comfortable in fit, 50+ UPF protection, and a back pocket, it's a must-have jersey to add to your cycling kit.
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Editor's Choice Runner-Up
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As a close second, Copenhagen-based brand Pas Normal Studios knows how to blend technical precision with aesthetic appeal. Their Mechanism Jersey provides all the aerodynamic benefits a jersey should offer, with an exceptional lightweight feel, while maintaining a minimalist look and technical features to make this a true mult-season staple.
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Best for Hot Weather
The nylon fabric is designed for thermoregulation in hot conditions, with a full-length zipper for quick ventilation control. It also offers UPF 30+ sun protection. Three rear pockets and a zipped valuables pocket give you space for gels and essentials. The Prime Short Sleeve Jersey from Specialized packs everything you need into a lightweight, comfortable jersey.
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The nylon fabric is designed for thermoregulation in hot conditions, with a full-length zipper for quick ventilation control. It also offers UPF 30+ sun protection. Three rear pockets and a zipped valuables pocket give you space for gels and essentials. The Prime Short Sleeve Jersey from Specialized packs everything you need into a lightweight, comfortable jersey.
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Best for Cool Weather
Smartwool’s merino wool 3/4 sleeve tee, blended with Tencel, offers breathable, moisture-wicking comfort for mountain bikers. Its regular fit allows unrestricted movement, while reflective detailing boosts visibility in low-light conditions like those often found on the trail.
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Smartwool’s merino wool 3/4 sleeve tee, blended with Tencel, offers breathable, moisture-wicking comfort for mountain bikers. Its regular fit allows unrestricted movement, while reflective detailing boosts visibility in low-light conditions like those often found on the trail.
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Best for All-Season Riding
The Castelli Espresso Jersey delivers a close-to-body fit without feeling tight, using breathable, moisture-managing fabric tested in the wind tunnel. It features a secure waist, three rear pockets plus a fourth zipped pocket for valuables, and a full-length YKK® Vislon® zipper, making it a go-to choice for any ride.
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The Castelli Espresso Jersey delivers a close-to-body fit without feeling tight, using breathable, moisture-managing fabric tested in the wind tunnel. It features a secure waist, three rear pockets plus a fourth zipped pocket for valuables, and a full-length YKK® Vislon® zipper, making it a go-to choice for any ride.
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Best Affordable Option
The Core Offroad XT SS Jersey offers a loose, stretchy fit for enduro, E-MTB, and all-terrain riding. Made from lightweight, breathable fabric with a rear mesh panel for added ventilation.
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The Core Offroad XT SS Jersey offers a loose, stretchy fit for enduro, E-MTB, and all-terrain riding. Made from lightweight, breathable fabric with a rear mesh panel for added ventilation.
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Best for Mountain Biking
This long-sleeve jersey combines casual style with technical performance for the thrill-seeking rider. Made from soft, temperature-regulating Tencel™ for comfort in varied climates, it features a stretch fit for use with or without body armour, plus a neck brace–ready design and added coverage for a relaxed bike park feel.
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This long-sleeve jersey combines casual style with technical performance for the thrill-seeking rider. Made from soft, temperature-regulating Tencel™ for comfort in varied climates, it features a stretch fit for use with or without body armour, plus a neck brace–ready design and added coverage for a relaxed bike park feel.
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Best for Trail Riding
Made from responsibly sourced, Fair Trade Certified™ materials, the Long-Sleeved Dirt Craft Jersey features durable Airshed panels on the shoulders, outer arms, and drop-tail hem for protection, combined with stretchy, quick-wicking Capilene® Cool Daily fabric on the main body, inner arms, and cuffs for breathability where you need it most.
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Brand Name | Product Type
Brand Name | Product Type
Made from responsibly sourced, Fair Trade Certified™ materials, the Long-Sleeved Dirt Craft Jersey features durable Airshed panels on the shoulders, outer arms, and drop-tail hem for protection, combined with stretchy, quick-wicking Capilene® Cool Daily fabric on the main body, inner arms, and cuffs for breathability where you need it most.
Price: 0.00$
FAQ
What should I look for in a cycling jersey?
Look for a jersey made from lightweight, breathable fabric. A jersey with excellent moisture-wicking and heat management properties will be the most rewarding for performance. Look for a close fit, enough to reduce wind drag, but not too restrictive as to hurt your movement. Features like rear pockets (plus a zipped valuables pocket), full-length zippers for ventilation, silicone grippers to prevent riding up, and UV protection are also bonuses that can make a jersey multifunctional for varying conditions.
Are expensive cycling jerseys worth it?
Yes. Brands that specialize in cycling, like Castelli and Specialized, are known for using high-quality fabrics and advanced construction techniques. Their jerseys often offer better fit, durability, and performance features compared to budget options. Investing in quality cycling apparel can enhance comfort and efficiency, especially on longer or more intense rides.
Best cycling jerseys for long-distance rides?
For long-distance riding, it'll depend on the season and weather. Choose jerseys made with breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics like technical blends that manage heat and sweat efficiently. Jerseys with multiple rear pockets and zipped valuables pockets help carry essentials securely. Look for a comfortable, close fit that minimizes excess fabric and pocket sag, along with features like full-length zippers for ventilation and UV protection for extended sun exposure.
How do I size a cycling jersey?
Cycling jerseys should fit snugly to minimize wind resistance but not so tightly that they restrict breathing or movement. Measure your chest, waist, and torso length, and consult the brand’s sizing chart. Note that some jerseys have shorter torsos for an aero position or have asymmetric hems. Consider your body type and intended use; some jerseys are tighter and more form-fitting, while regular-cut jerseys offer a bit more room for more intensive movements like mountain biking. If between sizes, opt for the size that balances comfort and performance.
Cycling season is eagerly awaited by many, and when it arrives, riders are ready to slip into their gear and hit the road or trails. We hope this guide has given you valuable insight for preparing your next ride or refreshed your knowledge on choosing the right jersey. For more cycling apparel and gear, explore our full collection here.
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