If you're looking for a loose fitting long-sleeved jersey for downhill riding, or just riding the trails, we reckon you can't really go wrong with the Roost from Flare.
We were impressed with how breathable this jersey, made from a lightweight polyester, is. It's ideal for intense sessions, but also great for longer rides where you might want a bit more coverage.
The Flare Roost Downhill jersey is made in the UK
Flare always makes a visual statement with its gear, and the Roost Downhill range is no different. The joyfully bright turquoise option with vivid red stripe is certainly eye catching; there's also a navy option with purple stripe, and Roost Downhill Shorts to match.
Related: Flare Roost Downhill Shorts
The fit is, to my mind, just right. Loose with a female-specific cut, there's plenty of room for body protection underneath but it also hangs nicely without. Raglan sleeves mean no on-shoulder seams, which might chafe when you're wearing a rucksack. A slightly longer cut at the back gives a little more coverage when leaning forward, but as we've found with the majority of Flare kit, the length of the jersey is generous – great news for taller women.
The jersey is cut slightly longer at the back
There is a small size label at the back of the collar, which I found a little annoying when riding so cut it out. There's another at the inside at hip level but as that hung in an area covered by my shorts, I didn't find it a bother. The internal seams aren't flatlock stitched, but the thread used is soft and I didn't notice any irritation.
I tried a large, which comes in at a UK 12-14 (US 8-10) depending on how you plan to use it. As it has a loose cut, if you do want a close fit it's worth going down a size. If you are towards the upper end of a UK14 and plan to wear body armour then you'll want to go up a size. The Flare Roost Jersey comes in sizes XS to XL, which the brand equates to a UK 16 / US 12.
Overall, it may be a simple jersey, but it's designed exceptionally well, looks great, and makes a versatile addition to any mountain biker's wardrobe.
Flare ships internationally – check flareclothingco.com for pricing.
