UK-based Dromarti made it to NAHBS for the second year running, to showcase its expanded range of cycling products, which is soon to include these classy-looking full Merino wool jerseys.
The company, which originally made its name with a range of traditionally-inspired leather cycling shoes, now makes four types of gloves (check our shoes and gloves expo here). It has also teamed up with an Italian artisan framebuilder based near Treviso to make steel frames.
But launching at NAHBS were the Merino jerseys. Unusually, for cycling outerwear, the jerseys are full New Zealand Merino – unlike the various proprietary Merino-based fabrics, which mix in a certain amount of polyester.
The result is a stunning and delicate-looking product, which, claims Martin Scofield, the company’s founder, has a high amount of stretch and is very resilient, thanks to a special proprietary knit. It has all the benefits of Merino – heat-regulation, comfort and anti-bacterial qualities – while comfortably accommodating different body types and fit preferences (size down for a snug one) – something that this eternal ‘Smedium’ would appreciate. It is also organically sourced.
Flatlock stitching gives strength and comfort, and the pocket configuration looks sensibly thought out – with extended side pockets for easy access and two waterproof compartments within the traditional three-pocket design, to keep your valuables and phone safe. Scofield also claims they are some of the deepest pockets on the market, for security and neatness.
Available in both black and cream, and with 1/4- or full-length zips, the production models will have more eye-catching red on the zip liner, as well as a small epaulette.
They jerseys are set to retail at around $150. Stay tuned for more news as and when – and, meanwhile, check a photo of a Dromarti bike on their very impressive stand after the jump.
