Machines for Freedom Summerweight Long Sleeve Jersey Review

With temperatures steadily rising and snow melting off trails, I’ve got summer mountain biking on the brain again. As I’ve mentioned in other reviews, Machines for Freedom is one of my go-to brands for best-in-class women’s cycling gear. Their summerweight long sleeve jersey is one of their flagship offerings and a staple in my steadily growing bike gear stash. Here are my detailed thoughts on this jersey.

First, can we talk about this print? Over the last couple years, I’ve collected a few Machines for Freedom jerseys, but this jaded rose print has a special place in my heart. I love teal and I love florals, so this could not be more perfect for me. This top was the first ever cycling jersey I bought, and the moment I put it on, I knew it was made for me. It’s still my absolute favorite!

Machines’ site suggests that they make “the most flattering cycling jerseys ever” and I tend to agree. Seriously, this top is one of the most flattering pieces in my entire active closet. It makes me feel like a million bucks–wearing this little number makes me feel like a pro rider and a trail boss even though I’m still very much learning.

I purchased my jersey in size XXS. My short sleeve Machines jerseys are XS, but the fabric on the long sleeve summerweight version has a little more give. The XXS fits skin-tight, but the material is stretchy enough that it doesn’t feel constricting. Zipped all the way up, the neck fits snug, but again, is not constricting. Given how well the short sleeve jerseys fit me in XS, and based on the size chart, I imagine the summerweight in XS would fit me as well. Machines suggests sizing down if you are between sizes or petite–I agree with that recommendation.

As with most jerseys, this one is a little longer in the back than the front. There is a silicone-line, elasticized band at the rear hem to help hold everything in place. As you can see in the photos, the length through the body and the sleeves fits me very well (I am 5’3″). The length through the body hits at high hip, and the sleeves have very little excess material. While I can’t speak for the other sizes, the proportions of the XXS make it best suited for petite folks.

The fabric is slick and silky to the touch. It feels quite luxurious and hugs the skin nicely. Long sleeves are always going to be a little warmer than short sleeves, but the fabric is very lightweight, a bit lighter and thinner than Machines’ short sleeve jerseys. It breathes very well and is comfortable even when conditions are pretty warm. There are mesh panels at either side of the torso and on the inside of the arms, which also helps with cooling.

I usually wear this top on mild to warm summer days, plus spring and fall riding. It looks great layered under a vest or a jacket on cooler days. When temperatures get particularly hot, I often reach for my short sleeve jerseys (review of Machines’ short sleeve jersey coming soon). The summerweight jersey features a UPF 50+ rating, which makes it the perfect option for when I don’t want to hassle with sunscreen or awkward tan lines.

The back of the jersey has a couple of large, open pockets for bottles or other large items. Most sizes have 3 pockets, but the XXS (which I am wearing) just has 2. There is also a zip side pocket on the right side, on top of one of the bottle pockets. The zip pocket is lined with waterproof material and, with a little effort, fits my iPhone 11 Pro.

I’ve logged many, many miles in this jersey and I still don’t have a single complaint. I ride mostly trails and have never had any snags or tears. Even after many washes and wears, it’s held up beautifully. The jersey in the photos is a little more than 2 years old and is my most-worn jersey, but as you can see for yourself, it still looks amazing.

Overall, I absolutely adore this jersey and would highly recommend it. Both the fit and the aesthetic feel like it’s made for me, and it’s performed so well. Machines’ gear is very pricey, but this jersey has been completely worth it! The combo of my jaded rose jersey and a pair of essential shorts is basically all I need in my bike life.

Currently, the summerweight long sleeve jersey is made in quite a few prints, including the jaded rose I’m wearing here. You can find all of Machines’ jerseys on their website as well as Backcountry and Competitive Cyclist.