Reviews

Chapeau Tempo jersey – review

Simple and stylish summer jersey - excellent value for money

The Chapeau Tempo is a simple but stylish short sleeve jersey which brings together a good level of breathability and smart design at a reasonable price.

The rise in the popularity of cycling in the UK has served as a catalyst for British apparel manufacturers and Chapeau have become one of the most well known in recent years.

The jersey is made from a polyester fabric described as “lightweight and moisture wicking” by Chapeau and breathability is of a high standard for a £49.99 jersey. I used this up to around 28 degrees and never felt like I was overheating due to the fabric.

The Chapeau Tempo is a simple but stylish summer jersey

Specification
Price: £49.99
Sizes: S-XL
Size tested: M
Website: Chapeau
UK distributor: Velobrands

This is helped by the full length zip which runs down the front of the jersey. It’s easy to use, with a smooth action in either direction, so regulating airflow and ventilation is a cinch.

The jersey is available in two main designs (and three colour options for each), either with Chapeau across the chest, or this striped version with the Chapeau logo. It’s smart, subtle, with a hint of French styling – it’s certainly a good-looking jersey.

The cut of the Tempo is more relaxed than that of the more expensive Chapeau Etape jersey already reviewed. I’d describe it more of a ‘club fit’ compared to the Etape’s race fit and strikes a sensible balance for general riding by neither being too close or loose enough that’s flapping wildly in the wind.

At the back, the jersey has three standard pockets. They’re a good size and big enough to fit in the usual array of discarded arm warmers, inner tubes and pumps.

The rear hem has a grippy line of silicone dots which keep the jersey in place securely. However, the arms would benefit from an elasticated hem as they’re prone to riding up, as was the case on the Etape jersey.

The jersey has three open pockets at the rear

Conclusion

The Chapeau Tempo is an very good jersey for the money. If you want an affordable jersey which is still reasonably lightweight and breathable, with a range of stylish designs, then it should be on your shortlist.