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Nema Classic and Fuze Jerseys
By James Sharp
Jerseys can be some of the simplest of cycling clothes. Usually all that is required is a decent fit and a good wicking fabric. Nema understands this and, in addition to jerseys with many pockets and panels, excels at making well thought out functional jerseys without unnecessary flash. We’ve recently spent some time on the Classic short sleeve jersey and the long sleeve Fuze and we like what we see. The Fuze is an updated version of the Creeper LS that we reviewed last year. While it is essentially the same, Nema has made some nice updates.
The Classic is really a sort of cross-trainer. It is cut like a standard t-shirt; it doesn’t have any zippers or pockets. This means that it is equally at home on bike rides, hikes and even backpacking. It is made of Nema’s TransLinc fabric, meaning that it wicks moisture, breathes and all that jazz. New for 2003 is Stealth Venting. This is a mesh where you would normally find the piping on standard jerseys. Together, the TransLinc fabric and the Stealth Venting create a lightweight shirt that moves moisture away from the user's skin.
 The Fuze is made of the same fabric and the same Stealth Venting as the Classic and throws a 12-inch front zipper and zippered side pockets into the mix. The cut is loose, allowing for freedom of movement, without being big to the point of snagging branches. When we reviewed the Creeper last year, we said that it was a gap-filler in the cycling wardrobe. The same is true with the Fuze. Wear it alone when the temperature starts to cool, or layer it over a lighter jersey. Then when the weather is cold, use the Fuze as a base layer under a heavier jersey or jacket.
Both garments are well made, though the fabric is prone to snagging on the hook part of hook-and-loop straps, if care is not taken. I haven’t had any seams come undone, even after repeated washings. Interestingly, even though the fabric snags relatively easy on some things, it has withstood branches, twigs, and the occasional crash with aplomb.
Summary: I heartily recommend both the Classic ($35) and the Fuze ($55) to anyone and everyone, but for different reasons. The classic is affordable and useful for almost any outdoor activity. If you are into running, hiking, cycling and more this shirt/jersey would be a welcome addition to your wardrobe. The Fuze, on the other hand, doesn’t cross activities quite as well, but crosses temperature ranges. From mildly cool, to cold, this jersey has its place, whether alone or layered with another garment.
James Sharp is a contributing editor for GearReview.com specializing in mountain biking.
For more information, contact:
NEMA International
16651 Gothard St, Suite E
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Phone: 714.841.8384
info@nema-usa.com
www.nema-usa.com
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