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Review: Primal cycle women’s jersey, shirt and bib shorts

Written by Fiona

June 05 2018

I like cycle clothing that is bright, well-fitting and just a bit different. I have written about Primal cycle clothing before and given it good ratings. This year the new collection includes Primal Theta Helix Bibs & short-sleeved jersey and a Neon Pink long-sleeved jersey.

Fit is different for everyone and usually I am a small. I found the Primal Theta Helix short-sleeved jersey and bib shorts to be a nice fit. The colourway is black and pink and matching, which is a nice extra, if you like matching kit.

The Primal Neon long-sleeved journey is not part of the Theta collection but it is still pink. It’s bright pink and excellent for being seen on the roads. It is a heavier weight fabric and perfect for cooler days.

Primal Theta Helix short-sleeved jersey

Features include:

  • AE Elite fabric: 4 way, mechanically-stretched black nylon or white polyester
  • 100% polyester
  • 3 Angled Rear Cargo Pockets
  •  Full Length zip
  •  Mesh Side Panels
  •  Mesh Vortex Panels
  •  Pro Tour Fit
  •  Set-In Sleeve
  •  Silicone Waist Gripper
  •  SLR Ion Fabric
  •  Z92 Compression Sleeves
  • Weight: 118g
  • £80.

I like the design, fit, the slightly long sleeves with a silky feel and the waist gripper. The pockets are useful  and the mesh side panels are great when it’s hot. I found the  jersey to be a bit short in the torso length. The zip isn’t the easiest to do up at first. I didn’t notice anything different about the Z92 compression sleeves but the bright pink is great for visibility.

At £80 it’s a little pricey but I have found my other Primal kit is durable.

Primal Theta Helix bib shorts

Features include:

Vero fabric which offers “compression and abrasion resistance  in a 40-gauge knit” plus “super-opaque qualities”.

80% Polyester, 20% Spandex

HX8 Carbon Chamois:

“Engineered for progressive reduction of foam thickness, using a fusion technology that seamlessly bonds materials without chemical fixates.

“The 4 density, 4 way stretch premium chamois is designed to form to the body, providing superior comfort while the Resistex Anti-Static Carbon fabric prevents abrasion and promotes blood flow. All fabrics used are antibacterial and antimicrobial.”

  • Flatlock Stitching
  • HX8 Carbon Chamois
  • Laser Cut FlexPro Leg Band
  • Pro Tour Fit
  • Promesh Bib Upper
  • Vero Fabric
  • Z92 Fabric at Cuff
  • Weight: 240g
  • SPF 50
  • £130

The first good point about the shorts is the length of the legs. I don’t like cycle shorts to rise too high up the thigh and these do not. The wide hem grips the leg gently but securely. The bibs are long enough not to dig in to shoulders but still keep the shorts nicely in place. The bibs can sit either side of the chest but if you are large chested they might not be so comfortable. I have seen wider and better placed bib straps.

I prefer shorts that have easier access, without removing a top, when needing a loo break. There are all kinds of clever designs to accommodate this but these shorts do not have that.

The shorts have more seams than I like, too. This means there are more areas where thigh fat can bulge. I find that the less seams there are the smoother the look. It’s not a massive complaint because few people look marvellous in cycle shorts but if there could be fewer seams and, therefore less panels, I could be happy.

The colour and design of the shorts is nice. They are mostly black but with one pink leg hem and pink stripes. They look great with the matching top.

The chamois pad is quite thick. Either you like this or you don’t. I prefer a thinner padding but if you are looking for great butt protection these will be the shorts for you.

I have had quite a few compliments about the look of this kit where wearing the jersey and shorts together.


Primal Neon heavy weight jersey

Features include:

  • Sfero, which is constructed for temperatures that range from 45F to 75F for warmth and breathability are a given.
  • Mechanically brushed back fabric inside
  • 2 way mechanical stretch.
  • 100% Polyester
  •  3 Rear Cargo Pockets
  •  3/4 Length YKK Invisible Zipper
  • Elastic at Sleeve and Waist
  • Raglan Sleeve
  • Sport Fit
  • 210g
  • SPF 35+
  • £60

This is a looser fit jersey that you would wear as an outer layer on cool but not wet days. It’s very easy to wear and is striking in bright neon pink so you would be easily seen on the roads. I would prefer to have less elastic bulk at the sleeves and waist (these days many jerseys have a flatter, thinner hem) but as it’s a jersey I would wear only when chillier it’s not a major issue.

The brushed fabric is lovely. It feels great against the skin and the 3 cargo pockets are excellent. The price is also very good for a long-sleeved classic jersey.

See Primal Europe for sales (you can also buy men’s versions).

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