Castelli Aero Race 8S Review 2026: The Eighth-Generation Speed Jersey Tested
What to Look For
The Castelli Aero Race 8S is the eighth generation of Castelli’s dedicated speed jersey platform, described by the brand as a radical departure from the 6.0 and 7.0 versions. It’s part of a broader shift across Castelli’s 2026 range, driven partly by new environmental regulations phasing out “forever chemical” (PFAS) treatments and pushing the whole industry toward new fabric approaches.
Key Features to Consider
- Race-cut aero fit — designed as a race-day jersey, cut tight to the body to minimise fabric flutter at speed.
- Eighth-generation fabric platform — Castelli’s own description positions this as a significant step change from the previous two generations, not an incremental update.
- PFAS-free construction — reflects new environmental regulation across the cycling apparel industry, not just a Castelli-specific choice.
Our Top Picks
Best for Race Day: Castelli Aero Race 8S — £158
The race-cut fit and aero-focused platform make this the pick for time trials, sprint and Olympic-distance bike legs, or any ride where a few minutes matter. It’s not designed for all-day comfort on long training rides — the fit is deliberately tight.
Best for Long Training Rides: Castelli Espresso 2 Long Sleeve Jersey — £124.95
Built from Castelli’s Espresso Doppio fabric with a “modular stretch” fit, the Espresso 2 trades some aero benefit for a noticeably more relaxed, all-day comfortable cut — a better choice for long endurance rides and base training blocks than the race-focused Aero Race 8S.
Buying Tips
- The Aero Race 8S is cut tight by design — size up if you’re between sizes or plan to wear a base layer underneath.
- Hand wash or use a gentle cycle with technical-fabric detergent — fabric softener and high heat will damage the aero fabric’s structure over time.
- If you only own one jersey, the Espresso 2’s more forgiving fit will suit a wider range of ride types than the race-specific Aero Race 8S.
Care and Maintenance
Turn the jersey inside out before washing to protect any printed graphics, and always air dry rather than tumble dry to preserve the technical fabric’s stretch and wicking properties. Avoid ironing directly on any printed panels.
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