How to buy a jersey that fits!
The Difference Between a Men's and Women's Jersey

As little as eight years ago, many manufactures took a men's jersey, sized it down one size, produced it in a pastel pink, and called it a "women's jersey". Women's apparel has come a long way since then. Women's jerseys are now cut to fit a women's body. Women have a much shorter torso than men requiring a shorter jersey length. In order for the jersey to fit without billowing, women's jerseys need to be cut to accommodate a women's breasts, taper in at the waist and then fit the hips. To achieve this curvaceous effect, you usually see that the women's jersey has more pieces than the typical mens cut which is just a front and back.

Fabric

Most jerseys, even the one's that look and feel like cotton, are made of polyester or a polyester blend so that they have the ability to wick moisture and breath. Although cotton breathes well, it retains moisture. Wearing a cotton T-shirt under a bicycle jersey totally negates the function of jersey. If you need an under garment, wear a polyester T-shirt or other technical layering piece.

Zipper Length

Zipper lengths can vary from 5" to "full length" The purpose of the front zipper is to allow the rider to adjust ventilation by raising and lowering the zipper. Women can now wear a coordinating sport bra under their jerseys and ventilate just like the guys.

Elastic Hems

The technical reason for elastic hems is to keep the jersey from billowing in the wind. If you are not concerned with wind resistance try the more "relaxed fit" jerseys in cotton blended polyesters that most manufacturers sell as "Mountain Bike", or "Off-Road Apparel". Many do not have elastic in the sleeves or body of the jersey.

Pocket Style

Traditional cut European racing jerseys have three pockets across the back. With the advent of off road riding, many jerseys now have zipper pockets to secure wallets and keys.

Sizing

Mens jersey fit and sizing is the most difficult issue to consider in selecting jerseys. There are two styles of jerseys on the market these days... the traditional european cut racing jersey, and the more relaxed fit american jersey. As the number of recreational riders has increased, manufacturers have developed jersey cuts that fit the average american male. This means a larger chest, bigger arms, and looser more comfortable fit. Sizing varies from company to company. In addition, a medium in a european cut may fit like and x-small in a "relaxed fit". The best way to determine how the jersey fits is to ask for the chest and neck measurements on the garment just as you would if you were buying a dress shirt in a department store. Most companies now supply detailed "size and fit charts" on their web site. Take the time to check the fit of a company's jersey before making a purchase via mail order or over the internet. It will save you time and extra shipping charges.