The TechStar is designed to be worn with body armour, but it can also be worn by itself. The back is very long and, with a simple overlocked hem, it’s minimal enough to tuck in without creating uncomfortable bulk.
Practical though it is for downhill jerseys, black isn’t our first choice for warm weather, but the fabric is light and the deep mesh under arm panels increase the airflow. The protective nature is carried through into lightly padded elbows and an abrasion resistant body material.
Although we didn’t throw ourselves off the bike deliberately to check this one out for you, it does have a smoothly durable handle. There's just one beef – the sleeves’ elastic-bound cuffs stay up well but do balloon when worn full-length.
This article was originally published in Mountain Biking UK magazine.