Race Face Women's DIY (2014) Jersey

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Review by Jessee Maule // Photos by Colt Maule

In a biking world that used to be more densely populated with XY chromosomes, finding legitimate women-specific clothing could be a task. And I'm not referring to the gear that companies would shrink in size, slap some pink on and call good. Thankfully for us ladies, more and more lines of apparel designed specifically for us has become available. Race Face is one of the respected companies that has been on the forefront of providing goods for the girls. Created by a woman with attention to detail focused on the feminine figure, the Race Face women's line has been known to provide riding kits that are functional, fashionable, and fit well. Now it's time to see how the latest DIY jersey holds up to the test.

Race Face Women's DIY Jersey Highlights

• 100% Polyester
• Cool Touch Yarn
• Soft-Hand
• UPF50
• Quick Dry
• Wash and Wear
• Mesh Side Panels
• Silicone Gripper at Inner Hem
• Back Pocket System Offers Two Top Entries and Third Narrow Pocket Designed to Accommodate a Bike Pump
• 3/4 Zip Sublimated Style
• Raised Collar
• Slight Drop Back Patterning
• Gravel or Black colors
• Sizes XS - XL
• MSRP: $75.00 USD

Initial Impressions

When I first unleashed the Race Face DIY jersey from its packaging and gave it a once over with sight and touch, my initial impressions were that it had a quality look and feel to it. The craftsmanship appeared top-notch and the jersey had a nice, streamlined look to it. It appeared as if it would be a fairly form-fitting top, which had me curious as to how the jersey would perform in warmer versus colder conditions. It was time to put these threads to the test to find out!

The collared cut of the jersey coupled with a zippered neckline lends the Race Face DIY jersey a clean look. I generally chose to wear the top unzipped, which, along with the mesh sides, allowed for adequate air circulation and ventilation. It was convenient as well to be able to zip the neckline up if it got chilly. When I first donned the Race Face DIY jersey, I was concerned that the piping around my armpits would be uncomfortable and rub my skin raw, especially if I wore a pack. Thus far, that has not been the case and my fears have gone unfounded. The pockets on the back of the top are tastefully executed and well placed and they hold water bottles and other implements snugly and securely. The elastic band circling the bottom of the top holds it in place quite well without being too tight or constricting.

The body of the jersey flares out nicely, providing the top with a more adaptable and flattering female shape. I didn't come across anywhere specific on the jersey with a lens wipe for sunglasses, so if need be I would just use somewhere on the bottom of my jersey and that seemed to work fine in a pinch.

On The Trail

When I got down to business and put the jersey through its paces on the trail, I found it breathable, comfortable, and competent. I tested the top in Colorado and it's safe to say summer weather there can be quite unpredictable. From glistening with self-produced beads of moisture under the high alpine sun to getting soaked in afternoon rain showers, the jersey proved to be durable and offered a high level of performance. The elastic waistband served its purpose well and held the top in place, preventing that annoying upward hike some shirts and jerseys seem fond of making, especially with a pack on. And if you want to go sans pack and utilize the pockets, the jersey still has your back covered, literally.

Things That Could Be Improved

If I had any nitpicks, it would pertain to the material developing pinprick snags somewhat easily. When that happens, they can be visible on the bulk of the material. A sunglass wipe would be a nice addition to the feature list as well. Finally, if you prefer less constricting/loose necklines, the jersey is more comfortably worn with the top unzipped, but what this boils down to is personal preference.

Long Term Durability

Pertaining to long term use, fortunately for me, I have yet to take a digger in this particular jersey so I cannot attest firsthand to how it will hold up. But I don't see any indication that it wouldn't. Throughout many ride-wash-repeat cycles, the Race Face DIY jersey has proven so far to offer the same high performance and durability as other Race Face apparel I have worn consistently for multiple seasons, and my clothing has survived crashes (more so than me) no worse for the wear. Simply put, the DIY jersey is another quality product from Race Face.

For more information head on over to www.raceface.com.

About The Reviewer

Jessee Maule’s mountain biking adventures and exploits began roughly four years ago when she and her husband immersed themselves completely into the world of mountain biking and travel. With a lifestyle that constantly takes her to different mountain biking locations, Jessee enjoys prime opportunities to put her long travel and squishy suspension to good use. Lots of saddle time in ever-changing topography provides her with the opportunity to hone her skills in all kinds of terrain while experiencing how products perform in diverse environments. While she is willing to earn her turns, her smile is grandest on flowing descents, especially if there are jumps, berms and rollers to play on, or maybe a fast, techy section with multiple line choices. To sum it up, mountain biking and traveling for a living gives Jessee the unique opportunity to put her products through the paces in a variety of locations and her gender allows for a fresh, alternative perspective.