I’m a fan of wonder fabrics. Some of those fabrics are new twists on old-school fibers, but others are the result of optimized new-school fibers built to deliver new world performance. I’d put Polartec Power Grid into that second category and the Ornot Micro Grid Jersey is a prime example of just how awesome that waffle fabric can be.
Ornot Micro Grid Jersey Features: Rpet Fabrics
Waffles and Polartec Power Grid are both in the same 5-star category for me. Whether it’s 5-stars, two thumbs up or a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, this jersey is hitting on all cylinders and I’m in love with it. For starters, Ornot is based in the San Francisco Bay Area, which is home to the most fickle weather in the world. You can go from frigid, foggy temps to scalding lava hot in just a short drive (or ride) from downtown San Francisco. The secret to wide-range comfort is waffles.
Well, not actual waffles (though it is making me hungry), but the legendary waffle fabric that’s used to make the Micro Grid Jersey. What’s even cooler about this jersey is the fabrics are all deadstock — excess, unsold material from the mills. In short, the Ornot Micro Grid Jersey is a feel good jersey that also feels really good.
That initial try-on felt amazing. Those little micro squares feel great next-to-skin and my body knows exactly what they will do in the saddle. It’s interesting how the air space can be immediately felt across all temperature ranges. That’s one of the wonderful attributes of this fabric is that dead air space where the magic happens.
Suited up, I paired the jersey with the Attaquer All Day, Velocio Foundation and MAAP Team Evo bib shorts. The olive green color is a solid choice and pairs well with both black and navy shorts, but you are welcome to choose your own style.
As usual, I tested this jersey just like I test all jerseys on the road, gravel and singletrack. Primarily on morning rides, some of those rides dipped into the late-morning with warming temps. Regardless of the temperature, the performance remains the same. On a 53-degree gravel ride, a 60-degree mountain bike ride and a 65-degree road bike ride I remained perfectly-comfortable. Even pushing hard, the Power Grid fabric always allows ultra-efficient moisture management. The harder I push, the faster the fabric wicks away moisture.
At the end of every ride, there is very little moisture buildup anywhere and the material remains stink-free for multiple uses. By about the 3rd or 4th ride, it will get a little smelly, but never overwhelming. The full-length zipper is easily zipped/unzipped with a single hand and the YKK zipper will be reliable for years to come.
The fit is streamlined and efficient. It features great sleeve and hem lengths, but you will want to make sure you have bib shorts that provide a little extra coverage since there’s no excess length. That need is minimized, however, because Ornot included full-hem silicone gripper to keep the jersey in place. And, it works awesome for my body shape — keeping the jersey situated on even the most demanding rides.
I appreciate the lower-profile collar that provides just enough, but not too much collar to get in the way (It’s Goldilocks-approved). That “just right” collar works well with jackets and vests without getting clunky. Worn alone or under a vest or jacket, the Micro Grid Jersey adeptly covers a huge temperature range. And, you can choose to go with a snug fit or more generous fit by sizing up or down. Either way, the fabric comfortably stretches with every movement.
Really, I couldn’t think of anything negative to say until I got to the pockets. Let’s be honest here… they are teeny tiny, so don’t expect to carry the kitchen sink on your rides. I honestly don’t know why they are so small, but if you tend to use your pockets like a Sherpa, you will be sorely disappointed. Yes, you can carry the necessities (extra gel/bar or two, multi-tool, mini pump, iPhone, etc.), but don’t expect anything more than that. And, because the pockets are so small, it can be hard to reach inside.
Fit: I’m 5’11” and 173 lbs, wearing the size medium for a perfectly-snug fit.
The Micro Grid Jersey is an absolute winner. Everything about this jersey showcases both great fabrics and great design. Ornot knows how to make just the right cut and Polartec Power Grid does the heavy lifting. It really is a great jersey for shoulder season or cool summer mornings across all cycling disciplines.
A native of the Pacific Northwest, Jason quickly developed a love for the outdoors and a thing for mountains. That infatuation continues as he founded this site in 1999 -- sharing his love of road biking, mountain biking, trail running and skiing. With extreme attention to detail, he has been a technical product manager for top 10 web properties, eCommerce businesses and SaaS companies for 20+ years. The combination of outdoor experience and technical savvy gives him a unique perspective that is channeled into every gear review. Utah's Wasatch Mountains are his playground. (Note: Jason receives sample products in exchange for authentic reviews. He is not paid, nor influenced to share anything other than his honest opinions.)
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