Let me tell you… I’m really digging all the Merino Wool options in the market these days. With the transition from Fall to Winter becoming more and more of a reality, I’ve been longing for a solid long-sleeve jersey option. My current long-sleeve jerseys all lack rear pockets, so I’ll start there. The three pocket design on the Swobo Merino 753 long-sleeve jersey is excellent with the ability to securely carry a water bottle, mobile phone, extra tube and other small bits without worry. One-handed access to the pockets is easy and things just stay put very well… kudos there.
Overall comfort of the jersey is excellent… I just love the feel of Merino in cool weather. I found the jersey to work really well alone in temperatures in the 50’s. When it dipped into the 40’s, the jersey kept me warm when I was in the sun, but the shade was a tad too chilly. An ultralight windproof vest (like the Marmot DriClime Vest) on top would be ideal with this jersey as temps decline.
On the other side of the thermometer, the 753 is comfortable enough for temperatures in the 60’s and above with the full-zip ventilation and its excellent moisture management skills.
Just a couple of things to note. While the overall fit is just right, the midsection isn’t too good at hiding my non-6-pack abs. Not that I’m fat, but lets just say I’m a ways off from being in an Abercrombie ad. So it’s a snug-fitting jersey in the middle, but the arms and chest aren’t so snug, but just right. I suppose the reason why the midsection is tight is to keep the load-carrying pockets from swaying back and forth. So, I’ll take the unflattering look for a more stable sherpa, I suppose.
As far as odor control goes, the construction of the material is made to reduce stankyness. I purposely ran in it one day, then rode in it the next two days without washing. While it didn’t stay “Spring Fresh,” it wasn’t as stinky as most day-old jerseys can be, so that’s good news for commuters.
The subtle Swobo styling is always welcomed, but this top-notch jersey does come at a price. It’s highly-functional and versatile–no question about that. But $110 is still steep for many.
A note on fit: I’m 5′11 and 175 lbs. The Large was my size of choice and fit me just right for a comfortable fit.
The Good
- Fabric blend is comfortable to the touch
- Trim fit keeps things streamlined
- Full zip for ventilation
- Rear pockets are well supported and can actually be used
- Not racy, but not baggy… a good fit for everyday riding
- Subdued styling
- Waffle fabric pattern dries quickly
The Bad
- Price of entry is steep
- Form-fitting midsection isn’t hiding my non-6pack-edness
- Full front zipper = zippered chest hair (yeowch)
Final Thoughts: Swobo Merino 753 Long-sleeve Jersey
The sheep would be proud… no question this is an excellent jersey for cool-weather riding. I really dig the functional back pockets and the comfy, functional fabric, but it does come at a price.
Buy Now: Visit Swobo.com
