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Reviews & Tips
1. POLARTEC POWER DRY bi-component fabric provides advanced moisture management that outperforms standard polyester constructions
2. Stretch bonded collar and bonded cuffs maximise comfort and freedom of movement at both ends of the jersey
3. Premium recycled ultra-stretch arm fabric combines environmental credentials with high mobility for technical riding
1. Very similar performance spec to the Maker Elite at the same price — the Switch adds bonded cuffs and recycled arms but the core fabric performance is comparable
2. POLARTEC technology is optimised for high-effort riding and delivers less visible advantage on easier terrain
3. No weather-resistant or windproof properties limit usefulness in colder or wetter trail conditions
The Alpinestars A-Aria Polartec Switch Long Sleeve Jersey shares its core fabric technology with the Maker Elite, but brings additional finish quality that riders who spend long days on technical terrain will appreciate. Both jerseys are built around POLARTEC POWER DRY, and the performance of that fabric is central to what makes them worth considering above the standard A-Aria range.
POLARTEC POWER DRY’s bi-component knit construction is engineered to work at a fibre level rather than relying on surface treatments or conventional weave patterns. The bi-component system actively moves moisture from the skin to the outer surface of the fabric, where it can evaporate during the ride. The jersey stays lighter and drier at the skin-contact layer for longer during sustained efforts, which directly affects comfort and temperature management on long trail days. The lightweight construction has a premium soft feel against the skin that’s noticeable from the first ride.
Where the Switch distinguishes itself is in the construction details around the collar and cuffs. Stretch bonded collar construction is more comfortable and technically sound than a conventional stitched collar, removing irritation at the neck during head movement. Stretch bonded cuffs at the wrist provide the same benefit while maintaining close, clean contact for riding gloves. The arm fabric is a premium recycled ultra-stretch construction that supports full shoulder and arm movement without any restriction on technical sections. Laser perforations on the upper arms add targeted ventilation in the area where heat accumulates during pedalling.
The A-Aria Polartec Switch is for performance mountain bike riders who want the best moisture management Alpinestars make in a long-sleeve MTB jersey, with premium construction details at the collar and cuffs to match. Enduro riders, XC racers, and trail riders who push hard across variable conditions will get the most from POLARTEC POWER DRY, and the stretch bonded construction throughout adds comfort on longer rides where simpler jerseys start to create friction points.
– POLARTEC POWER DRY fabric: advanced bi-component knit for elite moisture management and temperature regulation
– Laser perforations on the upper arms for optimal airflow and ventilation
– Premium recycled ultra-stretch arm fabric for maximum mobility on the trail
– Stretch bonded collar for comfort and freedom of movement
– Stretch bonded cuffs for comfort and glove interface
– Longer drop tail for coverage in the riding position
– Performance fit
The A-Aria Polartec Switch combines the performance of POLARTEC POWER DRY with a more polished construction package than the Maker Elite. Stretch bonded collar and cuffs, recycled ultra-stretch arms, and laser ventilation make this a complete long-sleeve jersey for riders who push their kit hard across the trails.
The A-Aria Polartec Switch is a step up from the Maker Elite in its finish details, with stretch bonded collar and cuffs adding comfort where the Maker Elite uses simpler construction. The POLARTEC POWER DRY fabric delivers at the core, and the recycled ultra-stretch arms are a welcome addition for technical riders. A well-rounded premium MTB jersey at £89.99.
1. POLARTEC POWER DRY bi-component fabric provides advanced moisture management that outperforms standard polyester constructions
2. Stretch bonded collar and bonded cuffs maximise comfort and freedom of movement at both ends of the jersey
3. Premium recycled ultra-stretch arm fabric combines environmental credentials with high mobility for technical riding
1. Very similar performance spec to the Maker Elite at the same price — the Switch adds bonded cuffs and recycled arms but the core fabric performance is comparable
2. POLARTEC technology is optimised for high-effort riding and delivers less visible advantage on easier terrain
3. No weather-resistant or windproof properties limit usefulness in colder or wetter trail conditions
