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UYN offers a number of solutions for regulating perspiration in hot weather. With the complete outfit consisting of the Wave jersey, Ridemiles bib shorts, and suitable accessories, the brand aims to help cyclists maintain their effort even when a heatwave hits during a ride. While the summer conditions initially put the kit to the test, with the Indian summer that occurs every year, the temperature range the outfit allows for is much wider than initially envisioned.
Text: Olivier Dulaurent – Photos: 3bikes.fr, UYN
Due to the climate change we are experiencing, extreme weather phenomena regularly break records. Among these, high temperatures once again held a special place this summer 2022, and no region was spared. It was under these conditions that the UYN outfit was pushed to its limits.
An innovative construction
What is most striking when unboxing the kit is the Wave jersey. While the material resembles a fabric generally found in thermal base layers, UYN assures that it is a special structure, made of three-dimensional waves allowing for better perspiration regulation. In the space between the tops of the waves, the fabric has a more open structure to allow for exchange between cooler outside air and the heat produced by the body during activity. On the back, here again the material used is not classic: it is a very fine micro-perforated fabric that allows for rapid dissipation of excessive heat. At first glance, we might be apprehensive about its resistance to sunburn as the perforations seem to let light through. But the protection is guaranteed UV 30+. Continuing the examination of the product, the low number of seams is noteworthy, a guarantee of increased comfort on the skin because this jersey is rather intended to be worn without a thermal base layer.
Furthermore, UYN uses a unique material called Argenthon which absorbs and reflects heat. Thanks to its interwoven silver ions, it has a bacteriostatic effect while managing moisture on the skin, which evaporates faster with a pleasant cooling effect.
Finally, particular attention has been paid to the shape of the neckline, again with the aim of achieving the best comfort by promoting adjustment without restriction.
On the road at different temperatures
When simply putting on the outfit, it is clear that the overall cut is not classic. Indeed, while the sleeves are long, even very long, but perfectly in line with current trends, the total height of the garment is also significant. While this may appeal to some cyclists who prefer to have their lower back completely covered by the jersey, others, on the contrary, will probably find this aspect excessive, especially if they are short and at the same time, the pockets are heavily loaded. Added to this is the fact that the material is relatively elastic – which can tend to accentuate the sagging phenomenon of the pockets.
In any case, if the cut fits (which is the case here in size S, for 1m90 but 94 cm chest circumference), the comfort is remarkable with a desired and appreciated second-skin effect. For this reason, it is not necessary to place a base layer under the jersey itself, although some may not wish to deviate from their habits.
As for the bib shorts, size M was the most suitable, particularly due to the slightly compressive nature of the “legs”. Here again, the effect on the skin suggests good riding comfort – regardless of the chamois pad’s behavior – but the thinness of the straps is surprisingly unconvincing at first glance.
In use, and especially in hot weather as mentioned above, the UYN set completely convinces the user. The comfort is very present, perspiration is well regulated, and the jersey does not feel hot, even though its above-average thickness compared to today’s products might have suggested the opposite. The close-fitting collar stands out for its pleasant and well-cut design. On the back, the large “mesh” section is effective because it allows heat to escape. The bib shorts prove just as effective in managing high temperatures, and overall comfort is very good, both in terms of fabric and chamois pad. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the straps would probably have benefited from being slightly wider.
While UYN primarily designs this outfit for summer heat, the set continued to perform well when the mercury dropped to temperatures between 10 and 20°C. Sometimes aided by arm warmers and/or a vest, as well as a thermal base layer, the user then benefits from the relative thickness of the jersey for added protection.
The accessories
In addition to the bib shorts and jersey set, some accessories accompanied the rides. The gloves first of all. It should be noted that it is necessary to choose one size smaller than your usual size, otherwise you will see creases on your hand; in this case, it is a size S for a size M according to usual benchmarks. Once the correct size is chosen, these gloves only elicit positive comments: while the palm is lightly padded but allows for better sensations on the handlebars, it is the fabric chosen for the back of the hand that proved extremely comfortable. In hot weather and even during slow ascents, these gloves are forgotten, which is actually the best compliment one can give them. The excellent durability of the product, put to the test all summer and in early autumn, should be noted.
The cap also proved to be an excellent surprise. Made partly from the same material as the gloves and featuring a central band that blocks the wind, this accessory is at once comfortable, wicks away perspiration, and provides interesting reinforcement as soon as the temperature drops or a shower disrupts the ride.
Finally, the socks are also an interesting accessory, although two elements that may not appeal to everyone must be taken into account. First, their thickness is rather significant, and as such, they are recommended for temperatures around 10/15°C. Second, they are genuinely high, and this aesthetic aspect can either appeal or deter. Repeated washings over several months have not altered their qualities.
In conclusion, the UYN set perfectly met its specifications aimed at managing periods of high heat with a very high level of comfort. Moreover, once temperatures are less extreme, i.e., in the interseason, the effectiveness of the products is maintained. However, interested cyclists will need to consider the cut, particularly of the jersey.
The UYN kit in brief… Rating: ***** Pros: remarkable overall comfort, management of high heat and versatility with more moderate temperatures, standout aesthetics, excellent quality accessories (gloves, cap, and socks) Bib shorts: Straps elastic, perforated, seamless and without extra thickness – Increased ventilation zones – Chamois pad HC85 with anatomical foam structure with breathable and antibacterial surface – Leg cuffs in two-layer stretch fabric – Gluteal and hip region made of a single piece of fabric, seamless – Reflective and iridescent UYN logo on the back to increase visibility and ensure greater cyclist safety – Sizes: S to XXL – Price: €169 Jersey: Aerofit cut adapts perfectly to the body without being restrictive – Minimal use of seams – Anatomical collar – Seamless shoulder construction – Airpunch panel on the back with micro-ventilation holes. The fabric has UPF 30+ protection – Three spacious pockets on the back – Reflective and iridescent UYN logo – Extended back with a silicone insert – Sizes: S to XXL – Price: €129 Contact: UYN |
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