With a variety of modern materials to choose from, bike jerseys are all over the place when it comes to fit, style, breathability, etc. Luckily, the Pearl Izumi Elite Pursuit LTD jersey that combines a great set of materials for a good price.
Pearl Izumi Elite Pursuit LTD Jersey Features:
- ELITE Transfer fabric provides superior moisture transfer
- Sleeve and side panels are polyester/elastane for form fitting freedom of movement
- Full-length semi-autolock zipper can be flipped up and tugged open with one hand for easy venting
- Three back pockets with bellows construction for optimal storage
- Colors: Delta Blue (tested), Delta White, Habanero, Stealth and USAPro
- MSRP: $120
Cool designs, excellent comfort
I’m liking the sleeve trends going on in bike jerseys and the Elite Pursuit LTD continues all that goodness. While it doesn’t have laser-cut cuffs, it does feature soft and stretchy sleeves, which feel awesome next-to-skin and particularly in riding position. They don’t restrict movement in any way and they stay in place quite well. That same stretchy material continues on the sides of the jersey for added stretch and comfort.
The fit of the Pursuit LTD is labeled as “form fit.” I think that’s a good representation of how it fits. My 5’11” / 170 lb. build fits the size large top quite well. I could go for a medium for a racer fit, but I’m liking the snug, non-restricted fit that the large provides.
I’ve worn this jersey extensively this spring and early summer in cool and hot temperatures. While my particular color is quite dark, I never felt like I was being cooked while wearing it. Moisture management is quite good and the zipper is easy to pull open when massive ventilation is needed. If you’ve ready my jersey reviews in the past, you’ll know that I’m quite particular about my zippers. Kudos to Pearl Izumi for choosing a great zipper pull that’s easily-grabbed and that also sits flat without dangling around. Zippers for the win!
Jersey length is quite good. It features a little extra length for better coverage. Of course, it features a drop hem and silicon grip on the rear of the hem. Something that’s become more normal these days is a bellows-style rear pocket. This allows you to carry more items because the base of the pocket expands slightly. It works great here as I’ve been able to stuff them full of all my essentials for long or cold rides.
Pocket access is quite good from the saddle. I able to reliably reach back there every time to get what I need or put anything back. Collar height is a little tall, but not unnecessarily so. I’ll add that I really dig the Delta Blue color. It looks great, I think.
Of course I used this jersey on the road and for MTB. The fabric is quite durable (even after crashing) and I’ve loved it for the local singletrack. Of course, the Fashion Police will cite you if you don’t match these up with a set of Pearl Izumi bibs. I’ve been wearing this with the P.R.O. Pursuit Bibs for a dashing ensemble.
The Good
- Love the buttery-soft sleeves
- Pleated rear pockets allow greater storage
- Love the Delta Blue color
- Pockets are easily-accessed
- That zipper pull… as good as it gets.
The Bad
- Lacks a zippered stash pocket for essentials
- Flatlock seams would be nice at this price
The Bottom Line: Pearl Izumi ELITE Pursuit LTD Jersey
This is a well-crafted jersey with tons of great features and a fetching design. I particularly love the soft polyester/elastane sleeve fabric as it contours without constricting. And, of course, the zipper pull — gotta mention that. It’s a keeper.
Buy Now: Available at Backcountry.com
