As temperatures rise, summer cycling gear is arriving to keep us cool in our saddles. In this quick roadie roundup check out a heat-beating kit from Endura and see what women’s brand Peppermint has created for this year’s summer collection.
Endura Pro SL Lite road bike clothing
Even in the clothing realm, consumers can benefit from trickle-down tech. Endura won over the Movistar Team with their Pro SL Lite jersey, and they’ve now updated that piece and added new Pro SL Lite bibshorts to the line. The Pro SL Lite line is Endura’s flagship collection for warm weather riding, offering pro-level performance at prices that won’t scare off recreational riders.
Pro SL Lite bibshorts
The Pro SL Lite bibshorts are an all-new model for 2018. If you’re familiar with Endura’s popular Pro SL bibshort, the Lites are (as you might guess) their lighter, cooler sibling. To ensure a comfortable fit, the shorts are ergonomically designed and constructed with pre-shaped panels, made from Italian Power Lycra treated with Coldblack technology and providing UPF50 sun protection. Their lightweight construction features perforated panels on the outsides of the legs and a minimalist bib section with mesh straps and shoulders, plus an open back for maximum ventilation.
The Pro SL Lite’s legs are finished with silicone-printed raw edge hems, and the shorts have one small laser-cut rear pocket for stashing power gels or mobile devices.
The new shorts are built around Endura’s new 700 Series Lite chamois pad. This pad is made from reticulated foam, which boasts a more open cell structure than other foams to provide better airflow and moisture transfer. The pads are made following Endura’s CVP (Continuously Variable Profile) process, meaning they are cut from one piece of foam, and treated with an antibacterial finish.
Furthermore, the 700 Series Lite pads also come in three different width options to ensure the best possible fit. Check out Endura’s website to see their pad fitting tool and determine which width will work for you. The Pro SL Lite bibshorts retail for $190. Black is the only color option, and sizes range from XS-XXL.
Pro SL Lite II Jersey
Endura’s matching jersey has also been updated for 2018, now called the Pro SL Lite II. This super light jersey is made with extra fine moisture-wicking mesh on the front panels, and Translite rear panels which provide UPF25 sun protection. The jersey is also Coldblack treated to minimize heat absorption from sunlight.
The Pro SL Lite II jersey provides an aerodynamic ‘race’ fit. The elasticized waist and the Lycra sleeves’ cuffs include silicone grippers to keep anything from flapping in the wind. The jersey also has a minimalist triple rear pocket and a full length zipper. The Pro SL Lite II comes in Black or Mulberry colors, and sells for $100 in sizes S-XXL.
Endura offers a 90 day comfort guarantee on all of their Pro SL products. If you’re not satisfied with your garment they will provide a ‘no quibble’ refund or replacement within 90 days of purchase.
PEPPERMINT women’s road cycling collection
Founded in 2015, PEPPERMINT Cycling Co. is a relatively new Canadian clothing brand who specialize in women’s cycling gear. PEPPERMINT just launched their 2018 summer collection, now available online. The collection features eye-catching graphics, splashed onto technical fabrics that are cut to provide an optimized fit for women. Here are some of the key pieces for summer ’18…
Long and Short Sleeve Skinsuits
PEPPERMINT’s long sleeve skinsuit features mesh side panels, but its opaque lower fabrics help the suit provide SPF 50+ sun protection. This suit also includes a women’s specific CyTech chamois pad, 2.5” wide double-layered leg hems, two rear pockets, a locking zipper and reflective accents. The short sleeve version is nearly identical in construction but uses lighter single-layer leg hems.
The Long sleeve model comes in a ‘Sea’ colorway only for $226 USD. The short sleeve suit is available in a ‘Spray’ design for $215. Both models come in sizes XS-L.
Signature jerseys
Their Signature Jerseys are made with light and soft fabrics including ultra-light mesh side and underarm panels. The main fabric offers odor resistant properties, and the jerseys provide SPF 50+ protection. They offer a ‘not too tight’ cut with a lengthened back for full coverage.
Other features include three rear pockets (one with a zip closure) and a side pocket, self-locking YKK front zippers, reflective accents, and silicone grippers at the lower hem. PEPPERMINT’s Signature jerseys come in seven different styles, and retail for $107. Sizes XXS-XL are available.
Signature bibshorts
The Signature bibshorts come with the women’s specific CyTech chamois pad, and offer a breathable top section made from light and wide mesh straps. The shorts fabric is woven to eliminate transparency, while remaining soft and providing a compression fit.
Double layer bands keep the legs comfortably in place, and reflective accents help you stay safe on the roads. The Signature bibshorts come in four styles, and sell for $127-131 in sizes range from XS-XL.
PEPPERMINT’s full made-entirely-in-Canada collection includes tank tops, MTB jerseys, non-bib shorts, caps and socks, plus they have a Sports Bra coming soon. If you live in Canada, watch out for PEPPERMINT Showrooms (mini-stores within coffee shops and outdoor retail outlets) popping up across the country this summer.
