Review: CycleDiva Blue Lagoon Tee

Pros: comfortable fit, sweat-wicking. Cons: limited colour options
Cycling UK’s digital communications and media officer Lauren Brooks reviews the casual-style sports top for various activities, including cycling. No pockets, though

CycleDiva Blue Lagoon Tee £45

Cycling gear often comes up a bit small in the sizing compared to high street fashions. This top is no exception. I’m a UK size 16 but the XL fitted more comfortably than the L suggested by the online size guide. So it’s worth sizing up if you prefer a true-to-size, slightly looser fit.

The T-shirt arrived in recyclable packaging, which is a big thumbs up from me. My first thoughts are on the colour: there are only two choices for this shirt, ‘Pink Corals’ and ‘Blue Lagoon’, which I’d call baby blue. Both are a bit too gender-reveal to me. I’m not a fan of pink cycling kit but the blue is inoffensive and nice and bright. More varied colour options would be nice.

The shirt is very comfortable, doesn’t rub on the seams, ride up anywhere or cling to your body. It fits well. Being a lighter colour, you’d think it would be a little transparent, but you couldn’t make out what colour sports bra I was wearing underneath, even a dark red one. That’s a relief because I rarely wear matchy-matchy gear.

I initially wore the shirt on my 5-mile commute over the top of some bib shorts. On sunny days, when the temperature was 14+ degrees, it kept me cool and comfortable. It was also fine for off-road rides when paired with leggings, keeping sweat at bay. And it works for layering under a jacket or windproof for summer evenings, or for wearing while using an indoor trainer.

There are no pockets so you’ll have to make sure you can carry any kit or your mobile phone in saddlebags or something similar. I had my panniers for my commute and I use a bum-bag when I’m off-roading so that wasn’t an issue for me.

There are cheaper alternatives on the market, of course, but at £45 it sits in the middle price-wise for a sports top. It’s made from 100% recycled plastic bottles, is fully recyclable, and isn’t too Lycra-looking. If those are your main concerns when choosing gear, it ticks all the boxes.

Verdict

For something that’s ethically made and doesn’t leave you clammy like a cotton T-shirt (my usual go-to), it’s decent cycling kit for someone who wants a more casual look.

First published in Cycle magazine, August/September 2022 issue. All information correct at time of publishing.

Other options

Rockrider Women’s Short-sleeved Mountain Bike Jersey ST 100 £12.99 at the time of writing

Made from recycled fabric that is soft and breathable yet resistant to snags from vegetation. Features a zip-up phone pocket.

Findra Maisie Merino-Lite Tee £50 at the time of writing

Made from an ethically sourced Australian Merino wool blend (87% wool, 13% nylon), this wicking T-shirt has a longer back and odour resistance.

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