The first item to be prised out of its rather over the top Assos packaging is the ‘Lady ellisse_S7’ short sleeve jersey that’s only available for the 2013 summer season. On first inspection, it’s hard to miss the graphics, rather marmite – a bold retro 70s inspired print. Assos say the design was inspired by the great operas of Europe. We’ll leave you to figure that one out.

Moving away from aesthetics and onto composition. The jersey, made up of 85 per cent polyester, nine per cent elastane and six per cent polyamide mix, feels incredibly comfortable against the skin. The jersey body is made up of quick drying polyester, which, although quite thick to the touch doesn’t feel too warm while on; we’ll see how it fairs in testing though. The shoulder section of the arms can only be described as shiny spandex and although I was dubious about how this looked, it felt silky smooth and incredibly pleasing once I’d tried it on. Under the arms, there’s a lightweight mesh type material, to help wick sweat and cool you down.

It’s clear that Assos have the technical aspects of their clothing down to a tee. The jersey is teeming with detail. The full length frontal zipper has no snagging points, at the top any additional zip has been sewn into the collar. At the hem, the zipper is encased in a fabric fold-back flap. The lowered hem at the rear is elasticated, held in place by silicone dots on the inside. Add in a horizontal black panel of lycra above the hem, and this jersey is not likely to move anywhere while in the saddle.

The pockets have been slightly re-designed. There’s four in total on the rear of the jersey, with the left and right pockets including an easy-to-access side opening. Whether this is going to be a hindrance on the bike, we’ll wait to see, it could be that belongings may not be as secure with an opening that low down.

Assos are known for their small fitting garments. The medium short sleeve jersey sent through fitted our UK size 10 model snuggly, so you may want to order a size up from your usual.

Sizes available: XS (UK size 6), S (8), M (10), L (12), XL (14)
The sizes bracketed are our estimated guide for readers.
Colour options: Violetta, Adua, Tosca, Norma, and Callas
Price: £121.99
More information: Assos