Stolen Goat Orkaan Everyday long sleeved jersey review

£120 may seem like a lot of cash for a winter jersey, but the Orkaan has a lot of tricks up its sleeves. For a start, it’s not much lighter than many brands’ winter race jackets, with a fleeced lining which provides plenty of warmth for cooler autumn days. It’s also pretty windproof, which means that the fleece is able to insulate effectively.

>>> 15 reasons why cycling in winter is great

On top of this, the fabric is water resistant, with water beading off all the panels including the cuffs when you do the running tap test. Stolen Goat says that this water resistance is built into the fabric rather than a surface treatment, so it won’t wash off. I’ve found it has lasted through quite a few wash cycles.

Reflectives are also useful as the days shorten. Rather than add reflective accents, the three rear pockets of the Orkaan are made entirely of a pixellated fabric, so there’s a very wide expanse of reflective fabric right across the back of the jersey. There’s masses of room in the pockets and there’s a fourth zipped pocket. But the open pockets don’t have a flap over them, so when it rains your gels (and your phone!) will get wet.

>>> Ten worst kit mistakes and how to avoid them

The Orkaan’s collar is high and close, so that it keeps draughts out effectively. There’s a guard at the throat to the full length zipper to avoid irritation. The zipper isn’t backed or waterproof, so riding in wet conditions some water will find its way in. The long cuffs are effective at keeping the weather and wind out though.

Watch: Winter jacket buyer's guide

The Orkaan’s fit is close enough to prevent windflap, but there’s enough space and stretch to layer up underneath if the outside temperature does drop below your comfort range. I’ve used a baselayer with full length sleeves to increase warmth on cooler rides.

>>> Seven tips to get your bike ready for winter (video)

Stolen Goat suggests a temperature hovering around ten degrees for the Orkaan long sleeved jersey. If you’re particularly hardy though, there’s also a short sleeved version of the jersey available for £95, along with weatherproof arm warmers to match.