As part of the variety of jerseys in your closet, a go-to thermal jersey is an essential. With the Pearl Izumi Attack Thermal Jersey, you get a comfortable and versatile jersey for cold weather riding. Updated for fall 2021, this cozy jersey has been a workhorse for road, gravel and MTB use.
Pearl Izumi Attack Thermal Jersey Features:
- Lightweight Transfer Thermal fleece fabric
- Full-length zipper
- Three rear pockets
- Zippered side-access pocket for your phone
- BioViz® reflective touches
- Utilizes recycled materials (47% recycled polyester)
- Form fit with stretch for layering
- MSRP: $100
Affordable thermal jersey
Pearl Izumi has long offered a variety of cycling clothing across just about every budget. With that, they pack a lot of great, modern features into every garment and the updated Attack Thermal Jersey is no exception. For starters, the Transfer Thermal fleece fabric is extremely comfortable next-to-skin, thanks to the brushed and patterned backing. For years, we’ve become accustomed to the grid pattern on the backside of fleece, but this one utilizes channels instead. The goal is the same — allow pockets of air to trap warmth while providing increased surface area for moisture transmission.
With that goal in mind, the Attack Thermal Jersey does offer a good amount of warmth when paired with an outer shell. As it is, the thermal fabric doesn’t have much in the way of wind protection. The smooth outer fabric does resist snagging and wear, but does little to block the wind. As a mid-layer, this one can definitely be used in very low temperatures. As an outer layer, the 50’s are where it works best (without a vest on the higher end and with one at the lower end). As mentioned, the channeled pattern in the lining does its job well by creating warmth and allowing moisture to escape.
The fit is on par with what I expect from Pearl Izumi. It’s a streamlined fit without being sausage-tight. Thankfully, the sleeve length is generous so you won’t experience any wrist gap between the sleeves and your gloves. But, the cuff diameter is a little large and tends to interfere with more snug-fitting outer layers. Many of my outer shells have more streamlined cuffs and the jersey feels bulky underneath them. I have typically gone with the Pearl Izumi PRO AmFIB Shell on the coldest rides (low-40’s) and they work well together (after some finagling).
The collar is a good diameter, but does also tend to be a touch bulky under most shells. With the stretchy character of the Transfer Thermal fleece, I think both the cuffs and collar could be a little tighter. The zipper is easily pulled up/down with gloves on.
I have appreciated the three rear pockets and found them sufficient for all the ride essentials. They carry items securely and don’t allow them to bounce around. Because the fabric is so stretchy, it can be difficult to retrieve or insert items when the fabric is damp from sweat. Maybe a small tab or texture at the top of the pockets would aid in access. The single zippered pocket is a nice touch for added security (phone, wallet, etc.).
While silicone grippy material isn’t required all the way around the hem, it’s nice to have. With the Pearl Izumi Attack Thermal Jersey, you just get it on the rear of the hem. For the most part, the jersey stays put, but a touch of the material could further maintain the desired position on the frontside.
Fit: I’m 5’11” and 175 lbs. and the size medium is just right.
The Good
- Affordable warmth
- Brushed interior is ultra comfortable
- Breathes well
- Pockets keep items secure (zippered pocket is nice)
- Extra sleeve length and good hem length for coverage
The Bad
- Cuffs and collar could be more streamlined
- Pockets become difficult to access when damp
The Bottom Line: Pearl Izumi Attack Thermal Jersey
Again, a thermal jersey is a must-have in your gear closet. The Pearl Izumi Attack Thermal is an affordable option that does a good job overall. The fit could be improved (tighter sleeve cuffs and collar), but it’s not a horrible experience and on par with that I’d expect at this price point.
Buy Now: Available at Nashbar.com
