Swedish brand POC does a great job of creating simple kit that is anything but basic in terms of its performance on the bike. Low-key styling combined with killer riding comfort is embodied in the Reform Enduro mountain bike jersey, underlined by exceptional durability that justifies the initial outlay.
The POC Reform Enduro has been designed to wear either alone on warm spring or cool summer days, or as a base layer underneath a waterproof or windproof jacket.
Design and specification
The Reform Enduro is made from a recycled polyester engineered to wick effectively and dry fast. The cut is easy but not baggy, and designed to accommodate both back protection and elbow pads. It incorporates a raglan sleeve construction to allow freedom of movement and there is one secure zipped pocket for valuables in the lower left side seam.
Performance
Full disclaimer, this is the third, (maybe fourth…) Reform Enduro jersey that I've owned and, honestly, I’m not bored with them yet. Nor am I tempted to wear the most recent version and leave the others in the cupboard, because such is the durability there’s not much difference in looks between the old and the new.
Much of the wearability is down to the next-to-skin comfort of the recycled material it’s made from. It is exceptionally comfortable at all times. On the bike that means it wicks well, even on the days that start out cool, pushing me into the long-sleeve decision, but turning on a boiling sun not an hour in. The slim cut of the lower arms means pushed-up sleeves will stay up if you feel the need for some cooling air, but they don’t go above the elbow, so like me, you will appreciate the thirsty quality of the fabric. Worn as a base to underpin a waterproof on wet days, an ability to wick sweat away but dry quickly adds bonus points to its versatility rating.
Building on that versatility the material has more of a matte finish than most jerseys, meaning that it looks more like a regular long-sleeve tee and doesn’t scream, ‘technical kit’ off the bike. It’s why it has become a regular go-to on shoot days when I’m likely to be mixing it up between driving, walking and riding, or even just with jeans on do-nothing, down-time days.
My gold standard is jerseys and jackets that you can move your arms around in without the body of the garment being dragged up or twisting at the same time. The cut of the shoulder with the raglan sleeve construction means the Reform Enduro easily ticks that box. (Looking for a raglan sleeve is always a good place to start if you’re looking for unrestricted movement – it's easily identified by a seam that runs diagonally from the armpit to the neckline.)
The freedom of movement is helped by a lot of stretch, so what I would call a regular, rather than oversize, cut never feels binding. It feels like a relatively heavy fabric, but rides light with ease not bagginess. Although it pairs well with jackets, I really rate the Reform Enduro for wearing alone and it has proved to be surprisingly adaptable across temperatures ranging between 14-20°C
This summer is serving up some chilly mornings though, and for those I find a lightweight gilet is just enough to take the edge off without being over-dressed later.
If you love to pack pockets of snacks and spares you might find the Reform Enduro lacking in that it only features one small zipped valuables pocket, but for me that is part of the appeal. It’s handy enough, doesn’t get in the way, and makes it a top that goes beyond the bike.
Verdict
Don’t let the cool good looks and understated style fool you, the Reform Enduro knows its responsibilities on the bike, and has a durability that ensures you will get payback in terms of wearable longevity.
Tech specs: POC Reform Enduro Jersey
- Price: $80 / £75
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Colors: Ammolite Coral, Prehnite Green, Axinite Brown, Turmaline Navy, Alloy Gray, Uranium Black, Calcite Blue
