Bike Perfect Verdict
If you go for this jersey you’ll not only be rewarded by top-level performance but also style points out on the trail, but it is costly.
Pros
- +
Super lightweight
- +
Slim fit and long length
- +
Lots of color options
- +
High wicking properties
Cons
- -
No pockets or glass wipe
- -
Snags easily
- -
Designs too bold for some
- -
Hefty price
Why trust BikePerfect Our cycling experts have decades of testing experience. We\'ll always share our unbiased opinions on bikes and gear. Find out more about how we test.
By now you may well be familiar with the Australian brand DHaRCHO, as it seems you can’t plant your eyeball anywhere without seeing a pro athlete plastered in it. The UK’s Tom Isted loves to rock the brightest gear out there and the Commencal/Muc-Off DH team isn't shy of a podium or two.
Although its name suggests that this jersey is for downhill and enduro racing, I rarely race but it certainly cuts it out on the trails and adds a much needed injection of color and fun in a sea of black-clad riders.
It’s a slim-fitting MTB jersey cut a bit longer so you can tuck it in – if that's your look. No pockets or features just a simple clean cut with killer styling. Made from four-way stretch quick dry lightweight 100% recyled polyester.
Design and specifications
Let's dive into the graphics as they are pretty out there. The race jersey is available in short and long-sleeve versions. I chose the Chili Peppers colorway as it matches some other kit - yes really! But if you feel brave enough you can opt for the Ice-T signature edition from Tom Isted if Slopestyle is your thing, or emulate downhill Meatro Amaury Pierron with his signature model which I’ll just rename Snow Leopard. Supernova is pretty awesome too if you're brave enough, and if you’re not Fade to Black is a more sedate color fade.
Made from 100% recycled fabric in a blend of polyester and spandex, what you get is a gossamer thin lightweight and super stretchy jersey with high moisture-wicking properties. Although DHaRCHO states that this jersey isn’t as durable as its standard jersey as it’s built for speed and lightness.
Performance
The jersey is slinky for want of a better word with the material feeling so nice next to my skin. The slim fit is quite a flattering cut and I like the longer length with a slightly dropped rear which looks good not tucked in. The styling feels really casual and that appeals to me and all the graphics use sublimation printing.
There are no bells or whistles with this jersey. All focus is centred on its lightweight high-wicking performance, and it does it well. Admittedly it didn't take long for me to snag it on brambles to my utter annoyance. It does certainly wick sweat quickly. On uplift days after a few runs when I’d worked up a sweat, the quick drying properties dried the jersey out quickly saving me from a bit of wind chill. One thing is for a given, I certainly stood out from the crowd, so if you favor a bit of individuality or just like it loud go lairy with this jersey. Of course, if you do race enduro or downhill, this jersey will perform really well, especially in hot weather.
Verdict
You’ll certainly stand out in a crowd wearing this jersey. It’s super comfy to wear and is perfect for a bit of extra sun protection in warm weather without overheating. It's unlikely to survive your next big crash though, which is something to keep in mind considering the price tag
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | The slim fit is excellent and long length good for tucking in for race day | ★★★★★ |
| Durability | Snags easily, but look after it and it should last | ★★★ |
| Performance | Wicks super quickly and a joy to wear in hot weather | ★★★★★ |
| Value for money | A little pricey for a lightweight jersey compared to the current crop on the market | ★★★ |
Tech specs: DHaRCO Mens Race jersey
- Price: $82 / £77 / €84
- Colors: Chili Pepper / Ice T / Fade to Black / Cookies and Cream / Supernova / Odyssey / Amaury Pieeron Signature Edition
- Sizes: S to XXL
