When something is new at Assos, you know to expect something that shatters molds -- even those set by Assos itself. Such is the case with the iJ.intermediate_s7. Is it a jacket, or is it a jersey? Well, it kind of both, but Assos simply calls it 'intermediate.'

The list of work that went into the iJ.intermediate_s7 reads more like the demands of a lunatic fashionista than a jersey -- 17 patterns, 14 components, and 6 different textiles. Now, we're not saying that quantities alone make the intermediate exceptional. After all, anyone can pour slop into a bucket and call it gumbo. It's Assos' technical design prowess and proprietary fabrics that bring the iJ.intermediate_s7 to fruition. Starting with the materials themselves, Assos spared no expense in placing the perfect fabric at the ideal location.

The front panel is comprised of the windproof stratgonUltra airBlock fabric. This material protects the torso from icy winds while providing ample stretch for movement. Additionally, its low volume makes it highly breathable for thermo-regulation. For the side and rear panels, Assos used its new ASSOS Type.v X121 summer textile. Why a summer-weight material on a cold weather jersey? Easy -- speed. Your sides and back are the focal points of ventilation; meaning that heat escapes at these regions. And according to Assos, this material dries 34% faster than prior iterations. So your internal temperature will remain consistent, and your skin will stay dry. The top of the arms use a lightweight, low-volume insulation fleece that conforms to your contours. Working as a cohesive unit, the materials keep you dry, protected, insulated, and unrestricted. However, this would all mean nothing without Assos' signature, precision fit.

Combining what Assos calls its Advanced Ergonomic Pattern Design (AEPD) racing cut with its cycling-specific body-mapping pattern design, the iJ.intermediate_s7 benefits from the most thought out design process in the business. Assos is the first to tell you that high-end materials mean nothing if the cut is bad. That's why it's spent a maddening amount of time on two points of study -- how the body is shaped, and how it changes throughout the movements of cycling. Accordingly, the AEPD cut is made for the shape of cycling, not standing (just a little something to remember when you try it on). With the iJ.intermediate_s7, the cut greets the contours of your body and adds a slight compression to aid in muscle recovery and stabilization. It's worth noting that AEPD achieves this without adding a sensation of pressure. Further along these lines, the cuffs use a no-pressure closure system that Assos calls WristWrap. To achieve this gentle grip, Assos integrated them with the fabric of the sleeves instead of placing them inside the hem. Altogether, the characteristics of AEPD literally make the jersey 'click' into place for the ultimate in cycling fit.

For storage, Assos provided three ample rear pockets with a zippered center pocket. The zip pocket has also been given a membrane casing for added water-resistance. Other features of the iJ.intermediate_s7 include a windproof collar and a full-length zipper with upper-flap protection.

The Assos iJ.intermediate_s7 Long Sleeve Jersey is available in six sizes from Small to TIR and in the colors Black Volkanga, Red Swiss, and White Panther.