The Sugoi RS Zero long sleeve jersey is a effective outer layer for cool rides thanks to a combination of fabrics to keep the chill at bay – but watch out for the sizing.

While a soft, stretchy and fleece-lined fabric is used for the majority of the jersey – which in its is warm and helps lock heat in – a windproof material is used on the chest and arm panels (i.e. the areas most exposed to the wind).

That fabric is dubbed Firewall 180 by Sugoi. It’s the lightest fabric in the Canadian company’s Firewall series and so it retains a high level of breathability, while providing enough protection to take the edge off the wind. For that reason the RS Zero is a versatile piece at its best on chilly but not freezing winter rides (though is can be easily combined with a gilet or lightweight jacket if you need more protection), as well as cooler conditions in the shoulder months of spring and autumn, when there’s still a nip in the air.

Sugoi describe the RS Zero as having a ‘pro fit’ but our medium sample is quite generous, particularly given the stretchy fabric, and we’d suggest moving down a size if you want to achieve that. The stretchy fabric also means the three rear pockets can sag a little when fully loaded.

Other features include a full-length zip, useful to help regulate body temperature when the road rises of the pace heats up, and a Sugoi-branded elasticated hem to hold the bottom of the jersey in place. The neck is also very high – unnecessarily so, in our opinion, but it does provide a little extra protection from the wind.

Conclusion

The Sugoi RS Zero is a versatile outer layer which will get plenty of use thanks to a smart combination of fabrics, though we’d prefer a slimmer cut to match Sugoi’s ‘pro fit’ description and a less intrusive collar, plus the price seems a little high.

Price: £79.99
Sizes: XS-XXL
Website: Sugoi
UK distributor: Cycling Sports Group