Pearl Izumi Symphony Thermal Jersey Review

by Sheri Rosenbaum

Hot!

• Full-zip for easy on/off and ventilation
• Higher neckline for added warmth
• Drop-tail for increased coverage even in drops
• Semi-form fit, and 4-way knit leaves room for layering
• Breathable fabric
• Lots of storage with 3 zipper pockets and one kangaroo pocket
• Rear pocket easily accessible with full fingered gloves
• Reflective trim on sleeves and rear pockets
• Versatile design for use on or off the bike

Not!

• Items shift in large kangaroo back pocket

Pearl Izumi

Price: $140 MSRP

Sizes: XS-2

Colors: Dark Denim/Navy, Black or Glacier

Fit: Semi-form fit

Material: Thermal; 92% polyester, 8% elastane

One Jersey – Warmth and Versatile Style

When Pearl Izumi sent me a few pieces from their new fall line, I really didn’t want to think about cold weather. I LOVE summer and not ready to bundle up for cooler Chicago temps. But the last few weekends the temps have dropped, and that cool north wind is starting to blow. To stay warm, I reached for the new Pearl Izumi Symphony Thermal jersey they sent and went for a few test rides.

I really like the semi-form fit, not only because it’s a flattering cut, but with the 4-way stretch fabric, there’s room for a base layer. The thermal jersey alone worked well for temps mid-50s to low 60s. Colder temps in the 40s, I added a short sleeve base layer. And for temps in the 30s, a long-sleeved base should be fine. The full zip front worked well one-handed, making it was easy to ventilate and not overheat.

The jersey material is soft to the touch both inside and out. Plus, Pearl Izumi has added some nice touches, like quilted-look details on the collar and shoulders, which give it a feminine and more expensive look. The higher collar keeps the draft out and a drop tail provides added coverage even in the drops.

This jersey boasts plenty of storage. To keep valuables safe, there are two front zipper pockets and one rear center pocket. There’s also a rear kangaroo pocket that goes across the lower back of the jersey. The pocket openings are easily accessible with long-fingered gloves, however there is no divider inside the pouch. Items would shift, and I was not sure which side to reach in and grab my phone or nutrition. In future versions, I would like to see a divider added to keep items from shifting.  

For added safety in low light, Pearl Izumi has added reflective elements to the trim rear pockets and sleeves.

I tested the Glacier color jersey, but it also comes in black or dark denim with navy. One of my rides was after a rainstorm and I forgot to use my fender. As you can guess the back of the jersey was covered with splatters of mud. Post ride I sprayed it with Shout and laundered in cold water. It came out perfectly clean.

Bottom Line

Looking to add to your Fall cycling wardrobe? Check out the new Pearl Izumi Symphony Thermal Jersey. It’s soft, breathable, warm and ideal for layering. It’s also very stylish, lending itself to be worn on or off the bike.