Autumn is coming. Sure, the prospect of gently falling leaves and bonfires may not carry the same menacing portent as the Game of Thrones catchphrase - but for cyclists, it does mean a reluctant return to cold-weather kit.
For once though, I'm looking forward to autumn: because it means I get to wear Rapha's Brevet Windblock Jersey again.
Designed for long-distance rides in cooler temperatures, the Brevet is a garment that really delivers on every front. It's essentially a medium weight jersey, that stands out from the crowd thanks to the addition of windproof panels on the front and arms to keep the chill off your core.
The panels are made of a shellsuit-like polyester, but while shellsuits were infamous for their boil-in-the-bag qualities while undertaking typical 80s exercises like breakdancing and er, whatever Rod Stewart is doing here, the Brevet neatly sidesteps the sweats by using a breathable merino fabric for the back and side panels.
The result is a nigh-on perfect jersey for off-season rides. It's good for all but the coldest days, with a relatively relaxed cut that allows for a base layer underneath - whether that's one of Rapha's own excellent mesh base layers, or the DIY layer of 'winter padding' that I tend to acquire around Christmas.
A full-length zip lets you aerate yourself after brisk efforts, while the standup collar protects your neck from icy chill on descents. At the back there's the standard configuration of three pockets, with a useful zipped compartment for cash, cards, keys or cognac.
Throw in the reflective detailing and two highly appealing colour options, and you're onto a winner.
Perhaps best of all, the jersey is currently available with a £35 discount in the Rapha sale. It's still not cheap, but the Brevet Windblock Jersey will repay you over many seasons of riding.
Autumn is coming. Bring it on.
Rapha Brevet Long Sleeve Windblock Jersey, £110 from rapha.cc.
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