Test: Finisseur Core MTB Enduro XCross Jersey
The Finisseur Core MTB Enduro XCross long sleeve jersey is a highly specialised garment, in this case, designed specifically for Enduro tours. Long sleeves, reinforcements, lightweight breathable fabric and a loose fit are its hallmarks. Combined with a thermal vest or dressed alone, it is a versatile garment in terms of temperature range of use.
Lightness and protection
This Finisseur Core MTB Enduro XCross jersey is made from 100% polyester textile fibres, making it extremely lightweight. It weighs 156 grams, which means it weighs only 12% more than a jersey from the Core short sleeve range, despite its much larger surface area. Long sleeves are necessary, both to block UV rays and to protect the arms from branches and leaves. It should be borne in mind that the speeds reached in Enduro are significantly higher than in MTB Cross Country, hence the need for greater protection.
During Enduro riding it is also possible to wear elbow protectors, although in this case the sleeves are not wide enough for bulky protection. In any case, the jersey includes silicone inserts to protect the areas of greatest friction, such as the elbows and shoulders.
The temperature range of use is very wide, from 15°C to 35°C. The fabric and the looseness of the garment help to keep it warm, and when temperatures are cooler it can be perfectly combined with a thermal vest.
A fresh garment coming down… and going up
With its characteristic loose fit, it’s no surprise that this jersey is extremely comfortable. And it is also surprisingly fresh, not only when descending, which is when the highest speeds are reached, but also in the uphill sections, even when carrying the essential backpacks or fanny packs used in Enduro.
The fabric used, without being micro-perforated, does have a grid structure that helps to reduce the weight and, above all, to make it very breathable and quick-drying. It also includes several reflective details, two on the front and one on the rear, which will improve the rider’s visibility on the link sections.
One detail we particularly appreciated is the shape of the collar. Some Enduro jerseys use very open collars which can contribute to the garment moving too much during such a frenetic and violent activity. The collar of this jersey has a medium opening, which does not crowd or allow the shoulder area to shift in movement. The collar itself has an insert inside it designed to reduce the risk of allergies.
Enduro with elegance
Technical Enduro jerseys tend to have somewhat extreme designs and we were pleasantly surprised by the restrained but attractive styling of this long sleeve Finisseur Core MTB Enduro XCross jersey. We have tested the orange version, but the geometric pattern and a fortunate combination of tones is also maintained in the other two versions, the green and the red and black.
The Finisseur logo on the chest and the brand name on one of the sleeves complete the design of this Enduro jersey that does not compromise on style and elegance. But apart from this, it also works very well as an Enduro garment, although the wide sleeves somewhat restrict the volume of the elbow protectors that we can wear. One thing you have to demand from this type of garment is that it is light and can be worn in high temperatures, and in this sense, this jersey fulfils perfectly, it is a loose and cool jersey, with good evacuation of heat thanks to its perforated fabric.
Pros
Perforated fabric that stays cool.
Very light weight.
Elegant and elegant aesthetics.
Cons
Slightly narrow sleeves for carrying bulky elbow pads.
Technical information
Brand
Finisseur
Model
Finisseur Core MTB Enduro XCross Long Sleeve Jersey
Description
Specific jersey for Enduro, long sleeved, very light and cool, with protective silicone inserts on shoulders and elbows.
Sleeves
Long, with non-elasticated cuffs and silicone inserts on the elbow pads.
Colours available
Orange, Green, Red and Black
Sizes
XS to 3XL
Price
59.95 €
More information here