Giordana

Lungo Short-Sleeve Jersey - Women's

When we heard that Giordana restructured its apparel line for 2016, we were curious about the new distinctions the brand, known for its consistently classic, elegant aesthetics, had introduced. We found out that after deciding to tailor each of its kits around a specific rider type, Giordana reworked construction and fit on nearly its entire line for 2016. The brand now distinguishes the Lungo as its kit for the "refined" rider, which in Giordana's words, means that it's made for a cyclist who isn't looking to wear race kit on every ride, or ever, but who isn't willing to make sacrifices in fabric, construction, and fit to get a more everyday-appropriate kit.

Out of all of its updates, we'd argue the Lungo best fills a void not commonly made apparent in cycling kit: that between race kit and everything else. Rather than bestowing the highest quality fabrics and greatest attention to detail on its race pieces, Giordana gave the same luxurious treatment to the Lungo, relaxing its fit only slightly to accommodate more everyday riding comfort. We won't hesitate to voice our opinion that the Lungo Jersey beautifully exemplifies the Italian brand's goals, and might be the most versatile kit the brand released this year.

Unsatisfied with fabric options when designing the Lungo, Giordana stepped away from its previous choices to chart new territory within the swim and undergarment industry. While it makes no specific information available on fabric composition, we do know that the silky, soft fabric that constitutes the Lungo represents a significant step forward for the brand for its lightness and breathability and perhaps marks an indication of what the future of cycling kit will look like. Giordana succeeded admirably in achieving a truly contoured fit for the Lungo that feels tailored around the arms and waist, complete with a short torso with a wide gripper in back and a slim folded seam along the front. The construction is ideal for following your body movements in the saddle and staying in place without fuss.

Along the arms, Giordana added 4.5cm grippers to hold the sleeves in place. Like the rest of the jersey, they remain impossibly thin and breathable without feeling delicate. Three roomy rear pockets and a smooth zipper that ends at a well-shaped, comfortable collar round out the rest of the design and give it long and short-ride functionality. Most of us have experienced making some compromises in fit when buying cycling apparel, and it's frustrating and unsatisfying. With the Lungo, Giordana adds another option to the growing list of commendably well-tailored women's kit.