Alé Defence 2.0 in the TOUR test: A weather-resistant jersey for changeable conditions

Weather-proof jersey for training in the transitional season

Alé positions the Defence 2.0 as a close-fitting solution for the transitional season. According to the manufacturer, the front, sleeves and shoulders are made from Polartec Power Shield with a water-repellent surface and a breathable membrane. The back features a stretchy material that is slightly brushed on the inside. The design is therefore aimed at rides where wind, spray and brief showers may occur, but where a full-fledged rain jacket would be too warm or too bulky.

Weight and pack size put to the test

In our test, the Defence 2.0 in size L weighed 255 grams. This places it in the middle of the pack among the weather jerseys tested: lighter than, for example, the Gonso Stivio Jersey Therm M at 290 grams, but significantly heavier than the Pas Normal Studios Rain Shell Aero Jersey at 205 grams. Nevertheless, for a long-sleeved, weatherproof top, the weight is perfectly practical.

The key factor here is the intended use: the Alé is not a minimalist emergency item for your jersey pocket, but a top designed to be worn for extended periods in changeable weather conditions.

Fit and comfort on a road bike

In terms of fit, the Alé scores well with a rating of 1.6. The regular cut and the wide range of sizes, from 2XS to 4XL, make it easy to choose the right one. The stand-up collar, flat-finished cuffs and silicone hem are designed to prevent wind from getting under the jersey.

In the road cycling position, the model fits comfortably close to the body without unnecessarily restricting freedom of movement in the shoulder area.

How well does the Alé Defence 2.0 protect against the rain?

When it comes to weather protection, the Defence 2.0 lags behind the top contenders in the comparison, scoring 2.0. Several models achieve the top score of 1.0 in this category. However, the Alé offers sufficient protection against wet roads, wind and light rain.

In the event of persistent or heavy rain, a waterproof jacket would be the more sensible choice. This is also in line with the manufacturer’s positioning of the jacket as water-repellent, rather than fully waterproof.

Features: focused on the essentials

Features include a concealed zip with a zip garage, reflective piping and flat-edge cuffs. The absence of more extensive pocket or collar designs explains the solid, but not outstanding, functionality rating of 2.0.

On the plus side: the details are designed with everyday sport in mind and enhance protection and comfort without making the jersey unnecessarily bulky.

Price and ranking amongst the test group

At 195 euros, the Defence 2.0 sits at the upper end of the test field. Its overall score of 1.9 classifies it as a well-balanced all-weather jersey, whose main strength lies in its excellent fit. Those looking for a particularly lightweight option or maximum rain protection will find alternatives that scored higher in the comparison. For training rides in autumn and spring, however, the Alé offers a well-rounded package.

Alé Defence 2.0: Product information and TOUR review

Editor’s conclusion

The Alé Defence 2.0 It impresses above all with its excellent, road-bike-specific fit and a wide range of sizes. Weighing 255 grams, it is not exactly a lightweight, but it remains easy to handle for a long-sleeved weather jersey. The weather protection and features are of a solid standard, sufficient for wind, spray and brief showers. However, in persistent rain, it lacks the extra protection offered by a waterproof jacket. Recommended for ambitious road cyclists looking for a close-fitting top for changeable training conditions in autumn and spring. Alé Defence 2.0 in the TOUR test: weather jersey for changeable conditions