Maloja might not have followed the conventions of traditional cycling kit when they created this Chica Bodysuit – but in this case they’ve made a success of breaking the rules.

The bodysuit is an all in one – no jerseys riding up, no tucked in base layers or fussy bib straps to contend with – this suit simply slides on and fits like a glove.

All the hourglass shaped women out there who are blessed/tortured (pick depending upon your mood) with breasts and hips should be cheering at the creation of this hip skimming, waist hugging garment.

Maloja have used highly elastic fabric to ensure the suit hugs where you want it to, whilst providing a comforting amount of stability for pedal pounding muscles.

Definitely designed for summer riding, the suit is highly soft and breathable – the fabric feels dreamy against the skin and Maloja have used a low-odour Ploygiene treatment  to ensure the kit remains whiff-free, too.

The zip is carefully tucked away and hidden, whilst a trendy polo collar and elastic hip belt add a touch of style.

The belt and collar create an internal bone of contention for me – I’d consider this suit for time trialling, but firstly, I’d rather race in club colours, and secondly, these two style features mean the kit breaks a few aero rules. Admittedly, Maloja didn’t design this for racing the clock, but it could make a quirky cyclocross racing skinsuit.

The leg grippers are slightly sliconized, with no sign of the any muffin leg creating tight silicone strips. However, when I took the kit for a sunny cyclocross spin I did find the legs rode up quite a bit – great if you want your tan lines as high as possible, not ideal if you’re prone to feeling a little self-conscious in short shorts.

The chamois pad is a quality, body-mapped, seamless, moisture wicking affair that has a Coolmax surface. It would serve well on long rides, but the eagle eyed among you will notice that a lack of pockets means you’ll need a big saddlebag if you intend to be out for hours.

Overall, I loved the fit of this garment – but I struggled to place its exact purpose. It’s not got the pockets for long rides, nor has it the aero design of a race suit.

This kit is more likely to be your best friend when you’re making quick summer excursions, when everything you need can be packed into a saddlebag (or stuffed discreetly down a sports bra in a plastic bag if we’re talking keys and cash…)

The camel pattern design is cool and quirky, but if it isn’t up your street, Maloja have some plain black and blue options, as well as a floral print design. The plain blue is on my shopping list already!

Pros: Shape, great fit, anti-bacterial treatment

Cons: No pockets for long rides, collar/belt not designed to race, upward-sliding legs

Available from: Cicla for £113.50, and other Maloja stockists

Size reviewed: Small