Test: At first glance, Vermarc's Zero Aqua Jersey looks like a fairly obvious copy of Castelli's Gabba 2. In detail we find some clear differences. These don't make the Zero Aqua a bad all-weather jersey, for heaven's sake - but a bit simpler in detail - last but not least, it also costs 30 euros less than the Gabba 2.
The outer appearance is extremely minimalist; two small, reflective logo prints on the chest and back, a reflective stripe along the back pockets and that's it; a leotard black as the night. The front is cut quite high, the back a little longer. As with the Gabba, the splash guard can be folded in on the back and fixed with the help of the silicone band in the waistband. It doesn't work quite as well as with Castelli, but it works. The processed fabric appears softer and more flexible and although it does not bear the expensive name of a well-known membrane like Gore, the water protection works very effectively. The wearing comfort of the Zero Aqua is very pleasant. When the weather is dry and temperatures rise, the Vermarc jersey feels significantly warmer. Unfortunately, inserts made of lighter material under the arms, which could increase the wearing comfort, are missing.
A continuous, wide fabric strap has been placed over the jersey pockets, which is intended to ensure that the contents of the pockets remain dry. This works well, but makes it a bit awkward to reach into the bag quickly; the two outer pockets in particular are very small – there isn’t room for more than a gel or a smartphone.
The collar of the Zero Aqua is only cut slightly higher than a "normal" jersey. The inside is lined with a comfortable mesh material. The zipper is much more difficult to pull than the Gabba 2 and also has no protective storm flap. Especially the handle of the zipper is extremely small. Since you like to wear long gloves in cool rain, or your fingers are a bit numb, opening and closing becomes a fiddly process.
The arms are long and reach almost to the crook of the arm. But the cuff is very comfortable; it is classically sewn inwards and does not constrict.
At a glance: Vermarc Zero Aqua
- Available in black only
- Weight: 278 grams (size L, short sleeve)
- Sizes available: XXS to XXXXL
- Optionally also as a long-sleeved version; arm warmers made of the same Zero Aqua material are also available.
- Washable only up to 30 degrees - which, as with many other jerseys of this type, unfortunately leads the intended use ad absurdum, but must be the price for the functionality.
- Price: 119,95 euros (short sleeves), 149,95 euros (long sleeves), 29,95 euros (arm warmers)
- Manufacturer's website