In the only recently passed season of jolliness and goodwill to all, I received an extra present from the good people at Cafe Du Cycliste - a cheeky little number from their performance range. The Pierrette Windbreaker Merino Jersey is one of several long sleeve jerseys and jackets they offer, which include the Yolande, Heidi, Colette, Regine, Madeleine and Pierrette.
Some quick interweb research has revealed that all the jerseys are names of female heroines throughout history, including a 15th Century Queen of Naples, three celebrated female novelists, a reigning queen and the female version of that classic Italian pantomime clown 'Il Pierrot' - the sad-faced, tear strewn clown that adorned many a hideous 1980s duvet cover and/or bedroom wall!
Cafe du Cycliste, based in Nice on the French Riviera, have followed in the same vein as Rapha in their approach to cycling clothing both on and off the bike. They have two ranges: Sur le Bitume, their performance range for road racing and Sur le Zinc, their urban collection for looking good whilst drinking coffee and shopping. All clothing offers 'tailored-tech, imaginative and modern, but not too far removed from the great tradition of French Cycling'. Sounds tres chic!
And so to the jersey. Firstly the jersey arrived in perfect condition in a specially designed plastic ziplock bag. Adorning the translucent pochette are all manner of stylistic images including bikes, cranks, mountains, bidons and fish. It looked tremendous and only further whetted the appetite and desire to open to see the jersey.
As with the packaging, the Pierrette jersey is all about the detail. The jersey is a blend of merino and polyester panels expertly sewn together with the clever addition of a windbreaker panel attached to the front. It boasts a full zip, integrated sleeve loops, a zipped key pocket, iPod cable hole in the collar, three back pockets, reflective patches on the back, and several embroidered logos.
The three pockets are adequately sized to fit in all the essentials; waterproof, gel, bar, iphone etc. without distorting the shape or spoiling the overall aesthetics. I was initially sceptical about the integrated sleeve loops and thought of them as a bit of a fashionista fad, but having worn the jersey several times now I am convinced that they are a great addition and help to maintain the fit with or without gloves.
The standout detail is on the front of the jersey, where the clever randonneurs at CdC have incorporated a windproof layer to prevent the cold and wind cutting through the jersey and onto the chest. This small addition improves warmth without adversely affecting weight, fit or breathability, and ensures that the rider remains comfortable even during high intensity rides.
The jersey looks good and easily stands up against high-end rivals from the likes of Rapha or Vulpine. Yes it is coloured in greys and blacks, which for some people may be a bit drab; but the unique front panels ensure this jersey stands out, while the understated colour scheme make it a fantastic addition to your cycling wardrobe as it will go with most other kit. Besides you can always accessorise; detail, remember.
Upon first inspection I was slightly worried with the fit. I had ordered a large to review, and holding it up revealed that it seemed quite narrow and also short in the body. These fears were soon allayed once I had put the Pierrette on and realised that it offered generous give both across the shoulders and chest. I was however disappointed with the length fit on the body, as the jersey came up quite short. It must be remembered though that as CdC state, this is part of their performance range and definitely has a race cut.
I have now worn the jersey several times over the Christmas period in a range of temperatures from -3 to +7 and through rain, wind, ice and sun; it performed superbly in all conditions. The dilemma is what to wear under the jersey, or indeed over it. In lower temperatures I was comfortable with a decent vest, the Pierrette and my Bioracer Anato Storm jacket. For milder rides I found a long sleeve merino base layer, Pierrette and optional gilet perfect. The jersey performs well on the bike and the windbreaker definitely makes a difference in keeping your core warm. The fit in riding position is excellent and not restrictive, which I have found to be an issue with similar race-cut performance products. I can see the Pierrette being perfect for those early dry spring rides with only a vest base layer for accompaniment.
In summary I was very impressed with the quality and finish of the Pierrette, and would happily choose further Cafe du Cycliste kit if it is as well made and looks as good. As with all continental cycling kit, attention and care is needed to the sizing as I think in reality an XL would have fit me better than a L; however, once I hit race weight It will be made to measure!
If you are in the market for some high end, technically adept kit and are a bit sick of always wearing Rapha, I would genuinely advise you to have a look at the Cafe du Cycliste website and see what they have to offer. You won't be disappointed.
Pierrette Windbreaker Merino Jersey, €136.00 from www.cafeducycliste.com.
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