Kit review: Fortan Activewear Woman's Defend Jersey
Reviewed by Elaine
FEATURES
This is a micromesh fabric which means it is breathable, moisture wicking and quick drying and it kept me fresh and comfortable for a full day on the trails. It has a nice stretch. I wore it under a waterproof jacket on one occasion and on its own when the weather was warmer. This is very lightweight and the colour is beautiful - I tried the crimson pink fade and I got lovely comments when I was out on the trails but there are more muted colours on offer as well.
SIZE AND FIT
I can tell the team at Fortan have put a lot of research into the fit of mountain bike tops for a plus sized body. It fitted on the hips and over the bust perfectly. I have the 4XL and I am a size 20 on top and my hips are more into the size 22 region and it fitted well. Their chart suggests that a 4XL is a size 22, chest 51.2 inches, hip 53.4 inches and back length 29.5 inches, and I would say this was accurate. It is of a long length which I feel is important for a cycle top as no one needs to see my back/bum when they are cycling behind me. The arms were slightly too long for me however I do tend to find that in a lot of tops. The 4XL is their largest size but they will make custom sizes.
Performance:
This is a lightweight micromesh top and is 145gsm (basically means super lightweight) and I found it exceptionally comfortable. The material is so soft and of an excellent quality. I feel the quality you get for the price is like no other technical jersey I have tried and for that reason I will wear this on the trails but I will also wear it when walking- it really is that good. It wicked away the sweat when I was putting in the effort going up the hills to start to the downhill sections and by the time I did a 25 minute descend it was dry again. I will feel happy wearing this on spring, summer and autumn days on its own and on winter trips I'd be tempted to put a merino wool base layer under it as no one wants to cover this beauty up.
RRP £39.95
