When your clothing is like an extra layer of skin, you have to be choosy about it. Riding in ill-fitting or uncomfortable gear quickly takes the enjoyment out of our sport, so most of us have come to realize that it makes sense to set yourself up with the best cycling gear you can.
In this article we’ll check out some of Capo Cycling’s newest road riding jerseys, bib shorts and kits. Designed in the USA and manufactured in Italy, Capo’s clothing is clearly aimed at the premium market. While these items don’t come cheap, the company is currently offering 15% discounts if you buy a matching jersey/short combo…
Capo’s Nova jersey is sewn from 16 panels of soft, lightweight Warp Knit micro-fiber and high-gauge Lycra. Carbon ES micro-fiber is also employed to assist thermal regulation, provide UV protection and help vertically support the rear panel. Where ventilation is needed most, Eyelet mesh inserts keep things open and airy.
This model provides an anatomical race fit, with Lycra sleeve cuffs and an elastic waistband to keep the jersey snugly positioned. Other features include a full-length lockable zipper, three rear pockets, and reflective details.
The Nova bib shorts feature 13 panel construction, with high-gauge Lycra providing a circulation enhancing compression fit. The upper bib material stretches in every direction and the Nova’s 7.5cm compression leg bands keep your shorts from riding up while you’re riding along. The shorts are also Coldblack treated, and include Capo’s multi-density EIT chamois for all-day comfort in the saddle.
The Nova kit comes in two color options- navy blue or black. The jersey and shorts are made in sizes S-XXL. The Nova jersey sells for $180 USD, and the bib shorts go for $220. Buyers who snag both pieces at once can take advantage of a 15% bundle discount.
If you prefer a more relaxed fit up top, the Corsa might be more up your alley. This 13-panel jersey is made from 100% polyester micro-knit fabric with mesh inserts to expel perspiration. This jersey shares the same three rear pockets, lockable full zipper and elastic waist as the Nova.
The Corsa bib shorts are a new addition for 2017. These 12 panel shorts are flat-lock stitched and made from medium gauge Lycra and breathable 360 degree stretch mesh. Capo’s 7.5cm leg bands keep them snug, and the company’s multi-density EIT chamois coddles your cheeks. The Corsas also use the Shoeller Coldblack treatment to prevent the solar-heating effect inherent with dark colors.
The Capo Corsa Jersey costs $130, and comes in teal or green. The matching bib shorts retail for $150, and both are offered in sizes S-XXL. Like the Nova outfit, a 15% bundle discount is offered with the Corsa kit.
The Corsa SL is quite similar to the Corsa jersey, but adds 4.5cm luminescent sleeve cuffs to keep you highly visible to motorists. This model retails at $150, in sizes S-XXL. Navy blue is the only color choice.
The Padrone Aero bib short is also new for 2017, and Capo seems quite proud of it, calling it “the perfect combination of technical performance, refined design and pure luxury”. Constructed with a 12-panel design, the Padrone Aero shorts are made from premium 50-gauge Lycra to provide a compression fit. The bonded harness upper bib and compression leg bands help ensure comfort and support, and the Coldblack treatment should keep you cool under the sun. The Padrone Aero short uses the brand’s anatomic CS EIT chamois.
These new shorts are not cheap at $300 but can be bundled with the Padrone Aero jersey to save you a few bucks. Sizes S-XXL are available.