Pas Normal Studios Mechanism Jersey Review: Plenty of style with functionality to match

Updated for 2025, the Pas Normal Studios (PNS) Mechanism jersey is part of the brand’s Mechanism line, aimed for fast paced riding at higher intensities. Let's see how it shakes down and warrants consideration as one of the best cycling jerseys.

Construction

The Mechanism jersey is largely made of polyester with the rest being elastane to create micro perforated panels of material for enhanced breathability. An update on this 2025 model is a lower collar to reduce chafing and also enhance breathability. There's also now an externally stitched in zip-up valuables pocket alongside the three main cargo pockets.

Fit wise the jersey has also had an update. Previously the cut of the jersey meant that it was quite short in the body and the pockets sat high up the back. The length has been increased and the pockets are now far more accessible, while still maintaining a tight and aerodynamic fit that is true to size. Elastic sleeve cuffs and waist hem keep the jersey in place while riding even with full pockets.

Style has also been a key focus with this jersey. All colour options save for the black, navy, and white options feature contrast white stitching patterns across the seams and are fully dyed. In total there are eight colour options in the updated design, with seventeen total as some of the colour options have not yet been updated. Sizes range from XXS up to XXL.

The ride

I have to admit that previously some of the PNS Mechanism line of kit has not been best suited to my fit preferences. Often the length of the jersey has been a bit short meaning the pockets end up being situated so high that they are difficult to get items in and out of when riding. In this 2025 update, PNS has improved this greatly, resulting in a Medium jersey that actually fits well on my 190cm frame.

Despite being aimed at fast paced training, it’s actually very comfortable for all day rides. Part of this is due to the silicone grippers on the hem of the jersey as well as the sleeves; everything stays very nicely in place even with heavily loaded pockets. This can get a bit warm on the hem of the jersey, but nothing uncomfortable in the mid to high 20s˚C.

A feature of the 2025 update that I’m very happy to see is an overhaul of the pockets. As mentioned, they were hard to access while riding. Now they are far easier to dig a hand into while riding, and they also have plenty of space. Also changed is the zip-up valuables pockets. Previously this was stitched into the inside meaning that keys for example could dig into your back, it was also not such a secure design. Now it is external to the cargo pocket but stitched fully into it, making it more practical and secure.

The only part of the fit that I am not so keen on is the fairly high neck. The PNS Mechanism Pro jersey and several other more race focussed options tend to have a lower cut neck, which I find is just more comfortable. However, for warm weather performance, the fabric used across the jersey, being more transparent and lightweight, makes for brilliant temperature regulation. Although not as perforated as the likes of the Castelli Aero Race 8S jersey, it’s comparable in hot weather performance in all but the highest intensity of efforts up steep climbs.

I’m a big fan of the array of colours on offer, and expect that list to grow over the season and into SS26. I think the contrast white stitching also looks great and is a little different to block colour jerseys that are generally available.

The logo printing is something that could potentially be a bit sharper, but by being dyed into the fabric it offers greater durability compared to transfers.

Value & conclusion

While £165 could never be described as cheap for a cycling jersey, when compared to jerseys from the likes of MAAP, Rapha and other designer cycling brands, it’s not unreasonable. Brand recognition and a wide selection of color choice all come at a price.

My only issue as such with the PNS Mechanism jersey is that it doesn’t feel like it does anything particularly stand out compared to similarly priced competition. It fits well and is comfortable, but it lacks any really specific breathability or aerodynamic features. Admittedly for training it is now one of my go-to options given it does the job well in warm weather, but the higher neck means for really hot weather I gravitate towards other options.

The Pas Normal Studios Mechanism jersey is an interesting one. It doesn’t have any real standout features in terms of performance that set it apart from the competition. What it does have though is a broad range of colour and size options to suit most people, as well as several highly practical features, which make it an ideal training jersey in the summer. If you want a comfortable jersey for long days in the saddle, and you want something that is more of a designer brand in the cycling world, the PNS Mechanism jersey is a great option.