The original Free AR 4.0 Jersey has definitely been appreciated by Castelli sponsored pro cyclists. The fit, design and slippery aerodynamics truly favored race-level performance. And many consumers who bought the Free AR 4.0 agreed; at least the ones that could fit into it. The purely race-cut design spared the wearer no extra muscle or a half-percent of body fat. Unfortunately, even few of the fittest non-pro cyclists could wear it comfortably. It is a credit to Castelli and the response of riders everywhere that the performance values of this jersey were hugely appreciated, but fit and features for the cycling public had to be modified. Enter the Free AR 4.1 Jersey FZ, a new version with a fit and stretch that accommodates more cyclists, but with the addition of the new Velocity Dry dimpled fabric is even more aerodynamic than it's predecessor.

Make no mistake, this is still a form-fit jersey that best suits an aggressive cycling position held in the pursuit of maximizing physical performance. Yet, the new Velocity Dry fabric offers substantially more stretch and a softer feel against on the skin. As mentioned, the aerodynamics have improved, now testing to save approximately 12 watts at 40 km/h compared to a normal race-fit jersey. New panelization combines varying degrees of directionality and stretch that help the fabric maintain skin contact at all times. This is particularly true on the shoulders and upper back, but the entire piece was reworked to function better and fit well. The lower half of the arm sleeves are the stretchy Nervato fine mesh, which not only hold the sleeve in place, but help keep you cool. The major back panel is also a mesh, that allows for active breathability in this zone that has little effect on aerodynamics. The pocket structure is made from the same material.

But while the fabrics and panels are crucial to fit, comfort and practicality for every day use come from the features added to what had been a sparse jersey. The Free AR 4.1 places fabric under the top section of the YKK® Vislon full-length zipper to eliminate chafing. The pro-style 3-section packet has better entry angles on both sides, and a zippered security pocket on the left side. A silicone gripper elastic at waist holds the back of the jersey in place. The neck collar is a little taller, which not only makes it more comfortable, but also improves the off the bike look, a challenging enough situation at the mid-ride nature break and beverage stop. It cannot be overstated how important such small details are the average cyclist. Pro cyclists have team cars, and many ride well over 10,000 hard kilometers in training alone every year, let alone racing. That "suffering builds character" is to these riders cannot be doubted. And they have physiques that reflect this level of commitment. Aerodynamics and breathability are central to their world view. Now you can have many of the great jersey qualities they "enjoy", but in a fit and finish that will keep you comfortably fast on the epic group ride this weekend.