How can this be a look at modern British cycling style without the phenomenon called Rapha.
It's hard to add anything to what you may already know about them, here is their introduction:
You may have guessed that I don't own any Assos kit, ok so one pair of yellow arm warmers, therefore no Rapha either. Out of my price range. But having experienced a Rapha jersey I have cause to re-evaluate that statement. It would be worth the money, there is a reason it costs so much.
I tried the British 'Country' jersey. What a great fit, it feels tailored even though I am not the ideal cyclists physique. Again the quality of the stitching and the seams is superb. The rear pockets include the reinforced valuables pocket and another gem sized perfectly to stop that mini pump rattling around on your back.
It's lighter weight than the Colomba, utilizing Sportwool of 40% merino and 60% polyester mix, and the full length zip, a personal preference, helps regulate temperature. It worked great in the Chicago heat. If anything it made me aware of how hot the back panel of my bib shorts got.
The British jersey is one of 4 country jerseys each referencing a nation of cycling die hards, the Belgians, the French, the British and the Italians. The British jersey having a nice sleeve and pocket detail featuring the British colours and the Union Jack. As a Welshman I have further reason to point out the lack of any reference to the Welsh but that isn't Rapha's fault, though maybe a green pinstripe somewhere eh.
Uncle Dave in Law also tried their iconic black 'Classic' jersey which meets all the same criteria as above. We also discovered their secret stories. Many Rapha items have hidden stories to tell, inside the rear pockets of the jerseys are their tales. Well worth searching for.
They are both beautiful jerseys to wear. Very stylish stuff.
Thanks to Slate at Rapha - go check out their ever expanding range here:
http://www.rapha.cc/shop
Giveaway details coming soon..
It's hard to add anything to what you may already know about them, here is their introduction:
Rapha creates the finest cycling clothing and accessories in the world. Designed without compromise for the most discerning rider, Rapha products blend style with optimum performance. A passion for road racing means Rapha is more than just a product company. It is an online emporium of performance roadwear, accessories, publications and events, all celebrating the glory and suffering of road riding.from www.rapha.cc
You may have guessed that I don't own any Assos kit, ok so one pair of yellow arm warmers, therefore no Rapha either. Out of my price range. But having experienced a Rapha jersey I have cause to re-evaluate that statement. It would be worth the money, there is a reason it costs so much.
I tried the British 'Country' jersey. What a great fit, it feels tailored even though I am not the ideal cyclists physique. Again the quality of the stitching and the seams is superb. The rear pockets include the reinforced valuables pocket and another gem sized perfectly to stop that mini pump rattling around on your back.
It's lighter weight than the Colomba, utilizing Sportwool of 40% merino and 60% polyester mix, and the full length zip, a personal preference, helps regulate temperature. It worked great in the Chicago heat. If anything it made me aware of how hot the back panel of my bib shorts got.
The British jersey is one of 4 country jerseys each referencing a nation of cycling die hards, the Belgians, the French, the British and the Italians. The British jersey having a nice sleeve and pocket detail featuring the British colours and the Union Jack. As a Welshman I have further reason to point out the lack of any reference to the Welsh but that isn't Rapha's fault, though maybe a green pinstripe somewhere eh.
Uncle Dave in Law also tried their iconic black 'Classic' jersey which meets all the same criteria as above. We also discovered their secret stories. Many Rapha items have hidden stories to tell, inside the rear pockets of the jerseys are their tales. Well worth searching for.
They are both beautiful jerseys to wear. Very stylish stuff.
Thanks to Slate at Rapha - go check out their ever expanding range here:
http://www.rapha.cc/shop
Giveaway details coming soon..
I've read a few articles (popped over from Shutt VR after seeing Pete's comments).
ReplyDeleteThought I'd let you know there is another new 'Sportwool hero' in the form of Torm C C.
You may not have heard of them before, I have just purchased some goods - a T2 shirt and arm warmers. They are providing, in my opinion, a very good alternative to the 3 companies you have tested at an extremely reasonable price. (just to say I have no direct affiliation with this company- I was just impressed enough with the goods I received)