The Maap Alt_Road range is the Australian brand’s gravel-focussed collection, which, it says, is made for adventure. Within that range is the Maap Alt_Road jersey, priced at the high end at £170.
I wore this jersey on my ride from London to Tunisia, when riding in 30-plus degrees, sweating out of every pore for eight hours a day (at least) for 18 days straight. I was that dedicated to testing this jersey.
I took two Alt_Road jerseys with me on the trip, and each was washed properly about three times. The rest of the time the jerseys were rinsed with water in rotation and chucked on the back of my bike for drying.
My conclusion is that, if you can afford it, the Maap Alt_Road jersey is worth every penny.
Maap Alt_Road jersey features
Made from a combination of extra-fine merino wool and synthetic yarns, Maap says the Alt_Road jersey benefits from thermal regulation, antimicrobial and anti-odour properties as well as being durable and quick drying. Thanks to these attributes, the brand says the jersey is made for riding in hot conditions, from 20 to 35 degrees.
The jersey has stretch ripstop side panels and three back pockets, as well as a zipped stash pocket on the side for easy but secure access to certain items, and a full-length YKK zipper on the front. The ripstop fabric should help prevent brambles, bushes, twigs and whatnot from damaging the jersey.
It comes in five different colours, including the mars (orange) and deep cobalt shown here, and sizes XXS to XL.
Maap Alt_Road jersey performance
I wore this jersey on consecutive all-day rides in 25 to 35-degree heat and it was excellent. The wool and synthetic fabric combination makes it very breathable and quick drying.
On most days I combined the jersey with Maap thermal base layer vest, and I am now a huge proponent of wearing a base layer in summer. The combination was fantastic – my body temperature was kept cool, I experienced zero chafing and I could ride for hours in the heat.
I don’t really use the back pockets on jerseys, because I usually have a top tube/bar/frame bag or I’m wearing cargo shorts, so I didn’t find the features like the zipped stash pocket super-useful, but it was still nice to have and will be of value to other users.
One thing to note is that the material will show sweat, and this was more noticeable when wearing the orange colour than the blue option. To be honest though, I think given the amount I was sweating this was justified and I personally don’t mind sweat showing when it is truly hot.
Maap Alt_Road jersey comfort
For me, the Alt_Road jersey has the ideal fit for all day use when you are riding road and gravel.
The cut is relaxed as the lightweight fabric stretches nicely for a close fit without feeling super-compressed. It is also a good length on my torso – being around 6ft in height, I often find that jerseys can often come up short, particularly since there seems to be a trend for female cycling jerseys to be more cropped.
The Alt_Road jersey bucks this trend, it has enough length in the body that my movement wasn’t restricted even when out of a normal riding position.
The merino wool and synthetic material combination feels lovely against the skin too. I was a bit dubious of this at first as I have a slight sensitivity to wool, but the fabric blend meant that the wool content was low enough not to irritate me.
I also like the side panels, which are flattering and add a bit of zhuzh.
Maap Alt_Road jersey verdict
At £170 the Maap Alt_Road jersey is very much at the top end of the price spectrum, which in some respects is a shame because it will exclude many cyclists that it would otherwise serve well.
Based on my experience testing the jersey, it is robust and comfortable enough to suit any summer adventure. Were it not for the pricetag, I would give it full marks.
If you are in a position where £170 for a jersey is feasible, then the Maap Alt_Road jersey is a brilliant option as it is up for whatever adventure you throw at it.
- Buy the Maap Alt_Road jersey from Sigma Sports (£170)
Looking for reviews of other gravel and bikepacking related kit? Head over to our gravel hub for all things off-road.
