My last memory of wearing PRIMAL Wear was a custom jersey from an invitational ride, and until now, I’ve never had the opportunity to review their gear formally. When their rep offered me a selection of jerseys and bibs for testing, I jumped at the chance.
Browsing their website reveals a comprehensive range of kits catering to every budget and need, from recreational riders to pro-level. The product lines are creatively named, and the guide below proves invaluable for selecting the appropriate kit.
I tested a variety of bibs and jerseys, with my overall impression being extremely positive. The fabrics are soft and breathable but also exceptionally constructed for comfort. The jerseys tested ranged in price from $80 to $150, while the bibs were $200 plus and are all available in men’s and women’s versions.
Alitios SR Etheros Cargo bib shorts – Women’s | Men’s
Alitios Vertos Thermal Knickers – Women’s | Men’s
Alitios Vertos Long Sleeve Jersey – Women’s | Men’s
Alitios Etheros Short Sleeve Jersey – Women’s | Men’s
Neon Flicker Omni Short Sleeve Jersey – Women’s | Men’s
Prisma Short Sleeve Jersey – Women’s | Men’s
Alitios SR Etheros Cargo Bib Shorts
Price: $200
Sizes: XS – 2XL (men’s version available in 3XL)
Fit: Elite – PRIMAL’s most aerodynamic fit
Colors: Black, Forest, Navy
Pockets: 2
SPF rating: 50
Chamois: E6 Carbon
The Alitios women’s and men’s SR Etheros cargo bib shorts blend style, functionality, and comfort. The bib shorts are $250, come in sizes XS to 2XL (up to 3XL in men’s), and are available in black, forest, and navy. They feature PRIMAL’s Elite fit, optimized for aerodynamics and high-performance cycling.
Other key features to highlight include two cargo pockets that securely hold essentials like a phone and nutrition. The higher waistline adds to the bib’s comfort and ensures a clean, roll-free transition under your jersey. The single-layer seamless bib straps have perforations allowing for breathability. The fabric offers an SPF 50 rating for added protection, allowing for more time in the saddle on sunny summer days.
PRIMAL’s E6 Carbon Chamois provides comfort thanks to its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. According to the company, the Resistex anti-static carbon fabric promotes blood flow and the reduction of lactic acid. The 4-layer, 4-way stretch chamois uses an Airmesh insert for shock absorption and moisture management. The shock absorption is helpful for gravel and road riding.
However, there are areas for improvement. The fabric, while soft, did not provide me with much compression. I prefer a more compressive fabric for better muscle support. Also, the silicon leg grippers could be more effective and did not prevent the leg band from riding up. Lastly, white bib straps are prone to discoloration from sweat and dirt — I always prefer black straps.
Alitios Vertos Thermal Knickers
Price: $260
Sizes: XS-2XL (men’s version available in 3XL)
Fit: Elite – PRIMAL’s most aerodynamic fit
Colors: Black
SPF rating: 50
Chamois: E6 Carbon
ATLANTA Plus by Carvico fabric provides better muscle compression than the fabric used for the bib shorts reviewed above. The higher compression reduces vibration and prevents muscle strain. The thermal fabric PRIMAL uses retains heat and continues extensively up the lower back, protecting the kidneys by keeping them warm.
Alitios Vertos Long Sleeve Jersey
Price: $140
Sizes: XS-2XL (men’s version available in 3XL)
Fit: Slim
Colors: Blue, Maroon, Black (women’s); Black/Green, Blue/Grey (men’s)
When the temperatures drop, reach for PRIMAL’s Alitios Vertos long-sleeve jersey made of ultra-soft Tactel® fabric. It’s incredibly cozy, like getting a warm hug when you slip it on. The breathable, lightweight fabric keeps you comfortable while the 4-way stretch moves with you.
A drop rear hem provides added coverage to keep the cold out, and a wide MARC® waist power gripper keeps the jersey from riding up. Unzip the full front zipper to vent the heat when the group ride gets a little rowdy.
There’s plenty of storage with three rear pockets, and the reflective logos and piping keep you visible to drivers in low-light conditions.
At $140, this jersey is available in men’s and women’s versions, plus extended sizes.
Alitios Etheros Short Sleeve Jersey
Price: $150
Sizes: XS-2XL (men’s version available in 3XL)
Fit: Elite
Colors: Black, Moto Maroon, Gold Medal, Navy, Purple, Teal, Gray, Coral (women’s); Teal, Navy, Coral, Espresso, Pink (men’s)
PRIMAL’s Alitios Etheros is their pro-tour level, and they claim it is their fastest jersey. With an elite fit, the COOLEVER® fabric hugs your body as its 3D patterned fit is designed for when a rider is racing in the drops. The Multi-Mesh Spandex® back and under-the-arms panels create a cooling effect as heat escapes. A full-length front zipper provides another option for venting.
The three angled rear pockets let you quickly grab a gel mid-ride without fumbling around. A wide waistband with grippers keeps the jersey in place even in the drops. The longer sleeve length stays put thanks to the FlexPro grippers at the hem; however, I’d prefer a raw edge instead of a band.
I tested the jersey on a hot and humid 92-degree day and found it very breathable and dries fast.
Neon Flicker Omni Short Sleeve Jersey
Price: $100
Sizes: XS-2XL (men’s version available in 3XL)
Fit: Slim
Colors: Multi-colored
SPF rating: 20~25
For those hot, humid days, the Neon Flicker Omni short-sleeve jersey’s slim fit hugs your body to help keep you cool. The Valo lightweight, perforated fabric is breathable and moisture-wicking.
Three rear pockets provide ample storage to carry nutrition and a phone. The cut of the outer pockets is at an angle for easier item retrieval. The rear MARC gripper prevents the hem from creeping up, even in the drops.
Prisma Short Sleeve Jersey
Price: $80
Sizes: XS-2XL (men’s version available in 3XL)
Fit: Standard
Colors: Various
Are you looking for a jersey with a roomier fit and easier on the wallet? The standard fit Prisma collection is only $80 and provides plenty of room to move around on or off the bike. The raglan sleeves are less restrictive, and the SpeedPro fabric’s 2-way stretch is breathable.
The elastic-free bottom hem fits curvier hips better, eliminating the constant tugging to pull it down.
The Prisma collection comes in numerous colors and designs. I tested the Red Briars and liked the vibrant color and pattern.
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.
Overpriced products, trying to take advantage of the supposedly perceived idea that the 99% of the cyclists are wealthy, and that the cycling industry thinks we all have piles of money to burn.
So what companies do you suggest?