It’s long-sleeve jersey weather and the Santini Classe LS Jersey is a great one to have as either a stand-alone piece or as a mid-layer under a light jacket.
Santini 365 Classe LS Jersey Features:
- Hotwind fleece fabric throughout
- Locking full-zip
- Taller collar for extra warmth
- Silicon grip around entire hem
- Three jersey pockets
- Made in Italy
- Colors: black, military green, blue navy (tested), orange
- MSRP: $114.95
Santini quality in an affordable long-sleeve jersey
Since 1965, Santini has been delivering quality cycling clothing and they remain among the top brands in the sport. Each item is still carefully crafted in Italy with the skill and passion that cyclists have come to expect from the brand.
This year, Santini has released their new Vega line for riding on the coldest of days. But, heading into the shoulder season, they also have several great options to allow you to ride in comfort on cold spring days or chilly summer mornings. I’m a fan of long-sleeve jerseys for the right conditions as an outer layer or as a mid-layer under a light jacket (Santini Scudo Windbreaker or Gore Bike Wear C7 Shakedry Stretch). The Santini Classe LS Jersey features fleece-backed Hotwind fabric, which does a fantastic job of adding warmth to go with plenty of next-to-skin comfort.
By itself, it takes the edge off, but in concert with either a vest or a light jacket, the Classe LS adds enough warmth by itself to comfortably ride in the low-40’s. Santini calls the fit on the Classe LS “slim” but I’d call it “just right.” It’s by no means a race fit, but the size Large fits perfectly without turning me into a sausage (5’11” 173 lbs). The sleeve length is perfect and the collar height/diameter is too. Everything just fits snug with the proper lengths throughout — well done.
The blue navy color features subtle horizontal stripes on the front and back to add some depth to the look. With three good-sized rear pockets, it’s easy to carry the essentials and even a little more. There is no zippered rear pocket, but I’m okay with that because I rarely use them on any of the jerseys I have that include them. Speaking of the zipper, it features a long, rubber zipper pull for easy pulling up/down with or without gloves. It also locks in place to prevent accidental opening once set in position.
While the Hotwind fabric remains warm and cozy, it doesn’t breathe extremely well and does become saturated after a long ride. I’d love to see some mixed mesh panels just to aid breathability, like the Colle LS.
The Good
- Excellent overall fit
- Sleeve length is spot-on for cuff coverage with/without gloves
- Comfortable next-to-skin
- Silicon around entire hem keeps it in place
- Large rear pockets that are easily-accessed
- Large zipper pull is easy to use
- Italian quality without breaking the bank
The Bad
- A couple of strategically-placed mesh panels would aid breathability
- I’d love some reflective or hi-viz elements
The Bottom Line: Santini 365 Classe LS Jersey
The Santini Classe LS Jersey is a great option for cold or cool-weather riding — depending on how you layer it up. Overall quality is top-notch and the fit is superb. I can tell this one is going to get lots of continued use. My only gripe would be for a little better breathability, but you do sacrifice warmth to achieve that.
Buy Now: Available at CompetitiveCyclist.com
