For 2022, Trek is introducing a small lineup of cycling kits with a focus on sustainable materials and classic construction. The horizontal lines of the new Trek Circuit LTD Jersey conjures up classic European look, but with modern performance.
Trek Circuit LTD Jersey Features:
- 37.5™ active-particle technology keeps your body at an ideal core temperature
- Raw edge sleeve with silicone gripper for a comfortable and stay-put fit
- Three open back pockets plus additional inset card pocket
- Drop-tail design with silicone gripper covers your backside in riding positions for a cycling-specific fit
- Full-length YKK zipper with recycled tape allows ventilation on long climbs or warm days
- Tested by OEKO-TEX® to meet Standard 100 requirements
- UV protection 50+
- Fitted cut provides a streamlined body fit for enhanced performance
- MSRP: $89.99
Classic jersey lines, eco-friendly construction
While Trek-branded apparel isn’t entirely new for the folks in Waterloo, I can’t think of many instances where the Bontrager brand was completely excluded from the item. Now, with this new clothing line, Trek may be dropping hints as to the future of the Bontrager brand. Maybe. Maybe not, but it is interesting and my contacts at Trek have been mum about it so far. Purists may scoff at a Trek kit with a Specialized or Cannondale bike, but a great kit is a great kit as far as I’m concerned.
For example, the Specialized SL Bib shorts and HyprViz SL Air Jersey remain among my favorite kits and frankly, I don’t care that they are from the Big S. Granted, the branding is subtle, so that may have something to do with my indifference to the scoffing cycling fashionistas, but they are great. Along those lines, the handful of items from Trek that I’m testing also have subtle branding that, hopefully makes them kosher for even the most particular among us.
So, let’s get back to the Trek Circuit LTD Jersey. The cut and style of this one is as classic as can be. It is fitted, but not race-tight, features three jersey pockets, a card sleeve, laser-cut cuffs, silicone-printed grippers, a traditional collar and subtle branding. The materials are both eco-friendly (40% recycled) and tested devoid of harmful chemicals and materials.
One of the big selling points is the 37.5™ active-particle technology that’s infused into the fabric. The goal is to maintain proper body temperatures — no matter the outside temps. That’s no small challenge, due to the thickness of the material. My initial testing has been indoors with Zwift and this jersey gets super-saturated after a hard session. I mean, completely saturated. In the real world, I’ve appreciated the Trek Circuit LTD Jersey on cool rides where a little added warmth is desired. On mid-day rides in the 80’s, it does feel warmer than jerseys I would typically wear for those conditions. Part of that is certainly due to the dark color, but I’m still not going to grab this one on hot summer days. Trek does give a nod to added breathability by placing mesh material on the sides and underarm, but it’s still lacking true airflow.
I will add that on warm rides, it doesn’t get nearly as saturated as an indoor session (even with a good fan blowing), so that’s good. The material simply feels thick and the traditional-height collar does trap heat. On top of that, the front zip is difficult to unzip one-handed when airflow is needed. In short, the Circuit LTD is great for rides from about 60-75 degrees. Early morning rides are prime candidates for the Circuit. For temperatures above that, I’m going to opt for something with more mesh and built-in airflow.
As an added bonus, this fabric is awesome for cleaning sunglass lenses. It’s soft and absorbent and cleans lenses better than any jersey I’ve got.
The three jersey pockets are easily-reached and can haul the typical amount of items without worry. The sleeve on the left pocket can also separate items from each other. I can see a couple of credit cards and ID or a multi-tool for that sleeve as it does a great job of separating items. They are pleated at the bottom, so volume is larger than a standard jersey pocket for added hauling.
I really appreciate the extra length and silicone-gripper material that keeps this jersey in place. Both the hem and sleeves stay put quite well but the hem does tend to curl up a little. The diameter of the sleeves is also compatible with normal-sized biceps (e.g. you don’t have to be a super-skinny cyclist). It does do okay for a couple of rides between washing and that hang loop on the collar is a nice touch.
Fit: I’m 5’11” and 175 lbs, and am wearing the size medium.
The Good
- Comfortable fabrics against the skin
- Great-sized pockets and the extra sleeve is nice
- Great coverage and silicone-grippy material keeps things put
- Affordable price point
- Classic styling with muted branding
- Fabric cleans sunglass lenses very well
The Bad
- Hem can tend to curl up
- Fabric is warm, so it’s not recommended for hot days
- You’ll saturate it indoor training
- Hard to unzip one-handed
The Bottom Line: Trek Circuit LTD Jersey
This new jersey comes in with classic lines infused with added performance materials that are also eco-friendly. With a streamlined, athletic fit, you’ll appreciate the comfort of the materials, but it does feel thick and rides a touch too warm for hot days in the saddle. I dig the subtle branding and can definitely see myself grabbing this one for the right outdoor temperatures.
Buy Now: Available from Trekbikes.com
