Castelli has pushed the limits of clothing for the pro peloton since as long as I can remember. Modern fabrics are continuing to push the aerodynamic limits and the Castelli Aero Race 6.0 Jersey is leading that charge. It looks and feels sleek for the ultimate in aero for a short-sleeve jersey.
Castelli Aero Race 6.0 Jersey Features:
- CFD-based fabric placement and seam construction
- Engineered for aero efficiency at 30 to 55 km/h
- Airflow shoulder construction
- Velocity Rev2 fabric on front and sleeve
- 3D mesh back for breathability
- Elbow-length stretch sleeves with raw-cut edge
- YKK® Vislon® zipper
- Drop tail allows perfect pocket placement while keeping jersey fitting well at waist
- Reflective piping
- MSRP: $179.99
Aerodynamics and superhero looks
Marginal gains can sometimes turn into more than marginal gains. With Castelli’s professional partnerships, top riders have provided hours of real-world validation that the Aero Race 6.0 Jersey is their fastest short-sleeve jersey yet. This one takes a nod from speed suits and adds the best features into a summer-weight short-sleeve jersey.
Among the most notable features of the Aero Race 6.0 are the sleeve length and shoulder fit. To achieve the most efficient airflow, the shoulders are seamless on all front-facing panels. Additionally, the dimpled mesh material aids in both breathability and aerodynamics (think dimpled golf balls).
As mentioned, the fit is definitely “superhero” as it just feels pro. at 5’11” and 170 lbs., I’m a solid large top/bottom with Castelli and that’s true here. It’s a nice, snug fit without being restrictive.
I’m loving the recent trend of large-toothed zippers on most high-end jerseys. Zipping up/down is a breeze — even one-handed. I also appreciate the zipper pull here as it makes for easy grabbing.
Sometimes, aero jerseys mean skimpy, hard-to-reach pockets, but not here. Castelli makes the pockets both aero and spacious using a drop hem that extends below the elastic gripper band across the back of the jersey. This allows the pockets to be stuffed to the hilt or to lay as flat as possible. Other jerseys use pleats, but it’s all about aero here and the execution here is superb. To keep the jersey in place is a thin silicon strip in the center of the aforementioned elastic band, which does the job. Rounding things out is reflective piping along that rear hem for a touch of added visibility at night.
The collar height is minimal, but certainly not absent. Some summer-weight jerseys are removing the collar altogether, but this little one feels just right and aids in airflow as it passes from your neck to shoulders.
I dig the black/red color as far as style goes, but a little added visibility would be nice in the real-world. Also, I’ve yet to take it out on the hottest of days, but have found it to breathe quite well and it maintains a nice level of anti-microbial properties should you wish to wear it a few days between washing. I’ve had this jersey paired with the Castelli Free Aero Race 4 Bib Shorts for a killer kit.
The Good
- Instant superhero status
- Comfortable and aerodynamic shoulders
- Zipper is easy-to-use
- Nice-sized pockets
- Breathes well
- Stays stink-free after multiple uses
The Bad
- Brighter colors or accents are always welcome
The Bottom Line: Castelli Aero Race 6.0 Jersey
With a closet-full of jerseys to choose from over many years, this one instantly ranks at the top for comfort, performance and fit. Over the course of a long day in the saddle, this jersey just feels comfortable and will provide a touch of aero advantage to boot.
Buy Now: Available at CompetitiveCyclist.com
