Rides & Thoughts: Ale Aero Short Sleeve Jersey – Male, cycling, Earthy Style

Ale’s latest Short Sleeve Jersey is a performance-oriented short-sleeve cycling top designed for warm-weather rides. Here are some thoughts from 8 hours of riding with it, not forgetting the key points of breathability, fit, comfort, functionality, and style.

Key Decision-Making Factors and Performance

For short-sleeve cycling jerseys, key factors include breathability, fit, comfort, functionality (such as pockets and grip), and style. Here’s how the Alé Earthy Style performs:

• Breathability (4.5/5): It’s made from a lightweight, quick-drying, stretchy polyester-based fabric, ideal for temperatures above 12°C. Breathability and wicking are as good as it gets.
• Fit (4.5/5): I’d agree with the brand’s comments that this is an ergonomic, race-oriented fit that hugs the body for aerodynamic performance. The stretchy fabric gives flexibility without flapping.
• Comfort (4/5): The sleeves feature laser-cut edges, designed to reduce drag and chafing, thereby enhancing comfort during long rides. Like me, you will probably be looking closely at this top because of its ribbed, aero shoulder material. This should give a decent performance benefit to those already in a good aero position. Elastic at the waist prevents ride-up, but for even better aero performance, you will want a one-piece design to eliminate the effect of waist seams.
• Functionality (4.5/5): The standard three rear pockets and reflective details offer ample storage for essentials, and the zipper allows for easy ventilation adjustments.
• Style (4/5): The Earthy Style design features natural, muted tones, offering a sophisticated look. However, the subdued palette may not appeal to riders seeking high-visibility colours for safety. The Fabric feels more like a wicking fabric than a sleek fabric.

What Sets It Apart from Competitors?

At the price point, what sets Ale apart is the style, breathability, lightweight and aero fabric.

• Castelli Aero Race 6.0 (€124.95): Slightly lighter and at the same price point. Castelli’s aero effect is said by the brand to kick in at 30 km/h.
• Rapha Core Jersey (€71.00): A great brand and ever-stylish at an attractive price point. No premium features like laser-cut sleeves or aero materials
• Gore Wear C3 Jersey (£69.99 ): Budget-friendly from a solid brand with good breathability but a non-race fit. Suitable for recreational cyclists.
• Assos EQUIPE RS Jersey S11 (£123.00): Comparable

Design Choices and Impact on Use

These choices prioritise performance and aerodynamics, but are perfectly fine for a coffee stop ride.

• Body Mapping Technology: Tailors the jersey to the body’s contours, reducing drag and enhancing performance. This benefits competitive cyclists but may feel too snug for casual riders.
• Laser-Cut Sleeves: Minimise chafing and drag, and are comfortable. The seamless edges feel delicate, and I have concerns about washing with a large pile of laundry.
• Silicone Gripper and J-Stability System: The jersey generally stays in place, especially in the upper arm and shoulder areas.
• Zipper with Cam-Lock Zipper: Easy to vent and easy to lock at the top.

Measurements

• Weight: Approximately 120–150g (estimated, exact weight not specified).
• Temperature Range: Officially, 20°C–35°C (I would say 12-14 degrees temperatures are fine too).
• Fabric Stretch: About 10–20% elastane
• Pocket Dimensions: Three standard rear pockets, each approximately 15cm wide x 20cm deep.
• Breathability: Not quantified in RET Resistance to Evaporative Heat Transfer), 3-hour rides at 23°C with moderate effort were fine.

Conclusion

I would wear this for a fast 100km Sunday ride on a hot day. I would definitely be looking for the aerodynamic benefit, but I take Ale’s ability to deliver that on trust. Perhaps on race day, I would go for a one-piece for those extra few watts.

• Price: €124.00
• More: Ale
• Ale at Amazon.

This item was provided to us free of charge by the brand. The content is not paid for, and the Ale link is not affiliated – I get nothing if you buy it directly from the brand, but I do if you buy it from Amazon.