Riding on a sunny, crisp fall day surrounded by fading green hillsides and orange and red trees is the stuff of poetry. The air has just enough of a hint of crispness to stop you from ever really sweating, and the smell of fall in the air somehow gives everything an overtone of nostalgia. Those days, staying inside is more difficult than being out in the fresh air. Of course, we often forget about the flip side of perfect fall weather. The dark, moody days that follow, kicking leaves onto the ground and making the air more damp and cold than pleasantly crisp, are the ones that make sticking to your ride plan difficult. We can't promise the 7mesh Men's Corsa Long-Sleeve Softshell Jersey will be cozier than the sweatsuit you'd prefer to stay in on the couch, but on the days you need to ride through wet weather, it'll keep you far more comfortable on the bike than that cotton hoodie would. 7mesh has made a name for itself for its minimalist style and sleek, but sumptuous fabrics. The brand doesn't skimp on valuable extra features, but it doesn't overload you with them either. On the Corsa, this means you'll have Gore's well-respected Windstopper fabric protecting you from pelting rain and sudden gusts, with a tailored, form-fitting silhouette that leaves just enough room for a thin baselayer. You'll also have two roomy rear pockets, complete with drainage holes and pocket guards, for stowing a smartphone and maybe a wind vest as well. A drop-tail hem loyally stands guard against wheel spray, and 7mesh makes sure the seaming doesn't drop the ball on the Windstopper fabric's water resistance by fully taping it to block water just as efficiently. We like the choice of a soft brushed collar and chin guard, luxurious extras that add just a bit of extra comfort in conditions that challenge us.
