Ride hard and the fleece-lined polyester fabric is able to transport moisture away from the body far more efficiently than a conventional windproof jersey. That’s the real benefit of the Strato – even if you’re working hard, you’re unlikely to soak your base layer and catch a chill when the pace drops or you hit a descent.

“The Strato is designed with autumn/mild winter days in mind, for riders who ride at a higher intensity – a departure from the steady, slow winter miles of old,” adds Whitfield.

The outer fabric is best described as wind resistant rather than windproof – that fact that a little air is able to permeate the layer also helps to keep you dry underneath – but it is effective at keeping out most of a cold wind. If things begin to get a little warm, there are two zipped vents on the front of the jersey and they allow enough air in to provide a noticeable cooling sensation.

But why not just use a regular jersey and gilet? That’s a combination which will continue to provide a useful combination of weather protection, breathability and versatility – I haven’t consigned my gilet stash to the bin – but what the Strato tries to do is overcome the shortcomings of that getup.

Finally, the fit is typical of Sportful kit. It’s a close cut which works well on the bike – there’s no undue bunching at the front, while the sleeves are a good length and the collar sits comfortably around the neck. Unlike some gilets, the integrated nature of the Strato means it doesn’t flap in the wind. The attention to detail is good, too, with a double hem which sits comfortably at the front, and a thick, silicone-lined elastic band at the back to hold everything in place.

Conclusion

Sportful’s R&D Strato jersey is one of those items of clothing which does the job it’s exactly designed to do. If you’re questioning the need for it, then it’s best not thinking of the Strato as a replacement for a gilet and jersey, but a super-breathable yet wind-resistant piece in its own right. This is a really smart piece of kit ideal for the UK’s cool conditions. If you value breathability then the Strato is the kind of jersey which works hard to keep your body at a constant temperature throughout a ride.

Pros

• Superb breathability for riding hard in cool conditions
• Easy access to pockets
• Zipped vents for additional cooling

Cons

• No zipped pocket
• Best suited to dry days