If the fashion industry got smart enough to include cycling apparel, the Velocio Delta Jersey ($99) would grace the catwalks of Milan Fashion week—because not only is it a tailored jersey with a relaxed fit and drop-tail hem, it is made in Italy (as opposed to China).

What I Love

Made in Italy, not China. I have grown weary of the prolific “Made in China” tag on 99% of every product on the market. Italy may not be the United States but in terms of being sick to death of Made China products, it’s close enough.  

Outstanding temperature regulation. The Velocio Delta jersey is made from Polartec Delta mesh fabric that holds moisture off the skin, thus “actively” cools the cyclist when riding. But on a long mountain bike ride in western Wisconsin at the end of July, I discovered (unintentionally) that it works similar to merino wool. The ride started out warm and humid, which happened to be ideal conditions to wear the Velocio Delta. However, five or so miles into a fifteen-or-so mile ride, a deluge of rain passed through. Because the Delta jersey is 100 percent (recycled) polyester, I had expected to be cold. I wasn’t. The key to this merino wool-like experience is that the Polartec fabric reduces the clingy feeling of a wet jersey because, as I said earlier, the mesh holds moisture off the skin. No matter the conditions of that ride—hot, humid, wet, cool—I was as comfortable as if I had been wearing merino wool.

Fit. I identify as more of mountain biker and urban commuter than a roadie so I prefer the semi-relaxed and longer jerseys to the second-skin style with the short front hem. The Velocio Delta jersey is definitely in the semi-relaxed/slim-fit category that I love.

Versatility. It’s also great for trail running or just about any high-activity pursuit because it’s design doesn’t scream, “Look at me! I’m a cycling jersey!”

Price point. For only $99, and Italian-made at that, it’s nearly half the price of the higher-end jerseys made by many American brands.

What I didn’t Like

Color availability.  It comes in a light dismal gray, and Tweety Bird yellow, neither of which are colors to which I’m drawn. I’m not looking for pinks and pastels, just something colorfully subtle like black or teal. To be clear, this is entirely a personal preference and not a ding on design or performance.

Final Thoughts

This was my first time experiencing the Velocio brand and wow. Impressive. Even if two colors in which it is available are lackluster. I love that it’s a lot of jersey for the money. I love that it isn’t made in China.  I love that it’s a long-sleeve jersey that I can comfortably wear in the height of summer thanks to its cooling fabric. I love that it’s a jersey I can wear for just about any high-activity pursuit, like running or perhaps as a baselayer for cross country skiing this winter.

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