SCOTT Trail Storm Jersey review

SCOTT’s trail storm jersey is designed for the chilliest winter rides. It works well as a warm layer fending off the wind chill and is cut to be comfortable yet well covering. The soft-touch fabric is pleasant, but heat build-up is noticeable once the temperature warms just a little. A lovely jersey but arguably less versatile than just layering up.

The jersey is made from a thick brushed fabric which proves to be warm and very comfortable against the skin. On the downside, this material doesn't breathe very well; however, SCOTT has incorporated mesh panels under the arms and high across the back of the shoulders to help dump the heat. It's worth pointing out there is a fairly large label at the back of the neck which protrudes, but I didn't have any issues with it being uncomfortable.

There is a handy goggle/glasses wipe on the bottom hem at the front. This is a nice feature with plenty of surface area to be exploited. However, if being picky, it would be better if this feature was further inside the jersey, away from the mud.

I’ve tested this jersey in various winter conditions, from frosty and bitter, to warm (10-degrees) and damp. There is no getting away from the lack of breathability from the thicker fabric. This warm jersey excels in cold conditions but can easily lead to overheating, particularly on an acoustic bike. On the coldest rides, I found the jersey to be excellent at stopping the wind chill and proved to be very comfortable against the skin. The cut is a relaxed fit but certainly not baggy; the material stretches well and never feels restrictive. The cut around the neck is excellent, too; I haven’t had any issues with drafts around this area, even hunched in the riding position. The sleeve length is generous, meaning there are no drafts whilst attacking the trail. The mesh vents do little to reduce heat build-up but are certainly better than no vents. This would be less of an issue on an e-bike where the going is slightly easier.

From a durability standpoint, I’ve found washing at the recommended 30-degrees doesn’t shift all the mud stains, although I expect this would be less obvious on a darker colourway. The brushed material has shrugged off the odd crash and graze well however, the back panel has bobbled from a hip-pack rubbing against it.

Retailing at £73, this jersey certainly isn't cheap, and arguably the cold-weather performance it achieves can be replicated with a couple layers. Madison's Zenith Long Sleeve jersey offers a very similar performance for £50 but also suffers from heat build-up. Our Liam captured his thoughts on it here. The jersey comes in the orange on test or a more subtle black/blue combo.

SCOTT's Trail Storm jersey is an excellent choice on the coldest rides when conditions are frosty with wind chill. However, it's not very breathable, and heat can build up quickly. The fabric makes it pleasant to wear against the skin however, its durability when paired with a backpack/hip pack is questionable. A great jersey for cold temperatures but arguably less effective and less versatile than layering up.