Trek’s new kit lineup is coming in with new designs, subtle branding and a high level of function — all wrapped in eco-friendly materials. In years past, recycled materials meant compromises in performance, but those days are gone and the new Trek RSL Jersey is a prime example of that. Fair warning here… this jersey is the raciest jersey I’ve ever tested from Trek or Bontrager, so keep that in mind.
Trek RSL Jersey Features:
- Mesh front and side panels with microfiber polyester back
- Optimized to dry quickly
- Elongated, raw-cut sleeves transition smoothly to your arms
- Three back pockets with added structure for support
- Full-length zipper for added ventilation
- Pro Fit is Trek’s most aggressive fit (refer to size chart)
- 2-year warranty on defects and 30-day satisfaction guarantee
- Made in Italy
- MSRP: $174.99
Sleek and aero jersey built for speed
In all my years reviewing Bontrager kits, none have approached the level of fit that the new Trek RSL Jersey has. This jersey is blatantly for racers and Trek isn’t shying away from that. In fact, you’ll see an updated size chart just for the RSL Jersey. Now that I’ve made that abundantly clear, let’s dive in.
Pulling on the RSL Jersey will instantly make you feel like a pro. Admittedly, I do have to spend a few extra seconds to fine-tune the shoulders and arms before it’s situated properly. But, once set, I’m as sleek and aero as can be. I don’t have large biceps (13″), but they do feel very snug, so if you have larger biceps than I do, they may be too tight.
I’ve paired the RSL Jersey with the new Trek Velocis Bib Shorts and they match up well. But, the great thing about both colors of the RSL Jersey (black and navy) is you can rock it with your preferred black bib shorts.
For ultimate summer performance, the fabrics are lightweight and thin. If you hold it up to the light, there’s not a whole lot of material between you and the sun’s rays. Trek states a 22 UPF Rating, so you may want to consider sunscreen underneath it if you are particularly sensitive or are planning all-day adventures in the summer heat. That being said, you will absolutely love how breathable the RSL Jersey is. Air plows uninhibited through it, providing awesome cooling and comfort.
As you can imagine, not a whole lot of moisture stays around — even for indoor training. After max efforts, the sleeves do stick to your arms, but really only after indoor sessions. After multiple uses, the RSL Jersey remains relatively stink-free. I can comfortably go 2-3 shorter rides between laundering.
Outdoor testing has been with both road and gravel riding. If you shoot for PR’s at every turn, you’ll appreciate just how sleek and fast the RSL Jersey is. What you may not appreciate though are the teeny jersey pockets and how difficult they are to reach into. If you haul stuff in your pockets like a Sherpa, you may be disappointed. For typical 1-3 hr rides, there is ample room. But if you need spare tubes and a day’s worth of food, this is not your jersey. I’ll add that the position and edge of the pockets do make it difficult to reliably find them to access or place anything inside.
To save money, lower-tier jerseys only include silicone grip on the rear of the jersey. The RSL Jersey has it all the way around to ensure it stays put. No matter what kind of effort, I’ve found that to be true as the hem always remains properly situated.
That low-profile collar is outstanding for summer comfort and the zipper can be opened to further aid in cooling. Honestly though, you really shouldn’t need to unzip it because of the extreme airflow the fabric provides. I haven’t felt the need to unzip it at all. But, when needed, it does take two hands to unzip (likely due to the lightweight mesh material not providing much resistance).
Fit: I’m 5’11” and 173 lbs and have been testing the size medium. It’s a very snug fit.
The Good
- Ultimate breathability for hot temperatures
- Pro fit for the fastest riders
- Ultra aero efficiency
- Dries in a jiffy
- Subtle Trek branding
- Low-profile collar
- Great odor control — even after multiple uses
The Bad
- Pockets are small and hard to reach
- Hard to unzip with one hand
- Right pocket top stitching is unraveling (a quick fix if you have needle and thread, but the 2-year warranty should have you covered)
The Bottom Line: Trek RSL Jersey
When it comes to the ultimate in racy summer jerseys, this one is right up there with the best in terms of performance and fit. The small pockets do limit utility, but that’s not your concern if you are shooting for PR’s at every turn. Breathability and comfort in hot temperatures are both superb with the RSL Jersey, but keep in mind that this is a racy, European fit.
Buy Now: Visit TrekBikes.com
