My first visual impression of the Cervelo Des Alpes Jersey was very positive.  It has all of the factors I look for in a high end cycling jersey - cool flat lock stitching, long ventilation zipper and no collar tags (logo and size are displayed via transfers instead of sewn in tag).   An extra nice touch is the rubber Cervelo logo on the zipper pull making for easy adjustment with sweaty hands.

Normally, I dislike it when companies put their name in huge letters all over clothing I'm paying for.  However, the large "Cervelo" down both sides, the smaller "Cervelo" on the breast and both sleeves and the "e" on the back are not only tastefully done, blending in and enhancing the overall look of the jersey, but are also reflective, thereby increasing one's visibility.  I appreciate the latter more than I mind the bill board effect as I do much of my riding in the early morning hours where visibility is important.  It will take more wearing and washing to see if they last, but after a half dozen cycles, the transfers seem like they'll hold up as long as the jersey.

Technically,  I expected good things after reading the description of the E-Flow fabric used to construct the Des Alpes.  Great moisture control with 40+ UV protection were promised to keep me cool and dry on hot summer rides.

So, did what I expect equal what I experienced?  Yes, and then some.

Cervelo sent me a large Des Alpes based on the measurements I submitted.  Cervelo clothing runs on the large side unlike European clothing which typically runs one to two sizes smaller.  As usual, I would suggest you try the clothing on at your LBS.  Short of that, consult the sizing charts on Cervelo's site and order accordingly.  The large is great for training and it is the size I should have according to the size chart, but I would go with a medium for racing as I like a closer fit for full on suffering. 

As I've mentioned before, I live, train and race in a very hot and humid area, so moisture management is important in my technical clothing.  The Des Alpes did not disappoint.  In fact, it is probably one of the better jerseys I've used at moving moisture and keeping me cool.  Though the E-Flow fabric is the main ingredient in the equation, the cut and fit of the jersey certainly play a role as well.  Many times the mark of good equipment is when it "disappears" from thought.  Such is the case with this jersey.  I'm not sure if ergonomics is the proper term for clothing fit, but it simply fits so well I don't really think about it on a ride.  No bunching or pulling, no pooling of moisture.  Very nice! 

The Des Alpes Jersey is well designed and constructed from top-notch materials resulting in a jersey that is on par with jerseys from biggest names in cycling clothing.  Good looking, comfortable, great performance and a very good value.  You can spend more on a cycling jersey but I doubt you'll get much more performance for your dollar.

Mark