Le Col ARC Merino Jersey Review

I think I could comfortably live in a world with Merino wool everything. This time, it’s the awesome Le Col ARC Merino Jersey — and I want more of it. Made from Italian Merino blend, this gravel-centric jersey is stylish and modern, but still has all the goodness that comes from nature’s wonder fibers. 

Le Col ARC Merino Jersey Features:

• Built for road, gravel and beyond
• Crafted from premium Italian Merino blend
• Subtle reflective logos
• Rear jersey pockets with waterproof zippered sleeve
• Naturally odor-resistant, moisture-wicking and hydrophilic 
• Relaxed performance fit
• 67% Merino wool/18% elastane/15% polyamide
• MSRP: $210

Natural Merino on display

Back in the day, Merino bike jerseys were all they had. Since that time, synthetic wonder-fabrics have entered the scene and taken over most of the jerseys we all wear. But, occasionally, someone blends the world’s best natural wonder-fiber with synthetic fibers to create something special. The Le Col ARC Merino Jersey is one of those classic jerseys that blends modern with traditional and delivers a slam dunk on the bike. 

For starters, let me talk a little more about this “relaxed performance fit.” At 5’11” and 175 lbs., the size medium fits me perfectly without turning me into a sausage. Merino blends can stretch quite a bit, but you really want to avoid excessive stretching, so I’ll call it a “Goldilocks” fit for me. The sleeve length is a little longer for a modern look and the mid-rise collar gives it a little more traditional feel. Hem length is just right to maintain a solid jersey/bib connection and the silicone-lined grippy hem stays put in the saddle. 

I’m picky when it comes to my zipper pulls and Le Col has nailed those. It’s not a dangly pull, nor is it a super-short one. It’s the perfect length to grab with or without full-finger gloves. While riding, I can easily move the zipper up/down without a fuss. Le Col, please change a thing with your perfect zipper pull. 

In the saddle, the jersey stays put well and rides quietly at all speeds. I love how well it contours my body and provides excellent moisture management. Even on 60+ minute indoor training sessions, it manages moisture well. Yes, it gets saturated, but it doesn’t get saggy and loose. Dry times are great and the fabric keeps body odor away until it’s been ridden several times. Since you want to take care to follow proper washing instructions, it’s nice to know that you can wear it 3-4 times between cycles in the Whirlpool. 

The grey color is timeless and looks great with the Le Col ARC Cargo Bib Shorts, but could be paired up with other color bib shorts just the same. The simple, reflective logos are great and don’t turn me into a riding billboard. 

While the collar height isn’t traditional height, it does offer added coverage for warmth and comfort for cool and cold-weather riding. Under a long-sleeve jacket, like the Pearl Izumi Attack Hybrid Jacket, I’m comfortable and cozy. And, worn alone, it’s great down into the 50’s. Either way, the jersey pockets are easily-reached and can haul enough for a solid outing. The waterproof lining of the zippered sleeve easily keeps valuables dry as well. The pull tab isn’t as great on that pocket, but you don’t need to access it on the bike, so it’s all good. 

Speaking of on the bike, I haven’t ridden gravel yet due to winter riding conditions, but I don’t feel like this is necessarily a “gravel only” jersey. Le Col does admit it’s great for road riding as well, and why not? For the right conditions, this jersey is simply fantastic and I can honestly say it’s one of my favorites for shoulder season. Between the Ornot Micro Grid and the Le Col ARC Merino, I’ve got the perfect options for either cold weather layering or cool weather riding conditions. 

Fabric durability has been great so far, with no real signs of wear or pilling at all. Merino does tend to fray at the collar and cuffs, but only after many years of use. I’m not seeing any indication of that happening anytime soon.

Fit: I’m 5’11” and 175 lbs., wearing the size medium.

Buy Now: Available at REI