Similar to the equation for how many bikes one should own (n+1) the same applies to riding gear. For all seasons, Roka is offering their black collection. It’s stealth black with an aero blueprint. Rapha’s city lineup give riders style with comfort. Lastly, The Athletic has made their mark on Castelli with an updated La Cubiste collection…
Roka is now offering men’s and women’s Pro All Season and Pro Summer kits. Both offer an all black look, and aerodynamic focused sleeves and back panels. The difference between summer and all season is the knit on the front. Summer gets a larger mesh for more airflow, while All Season is tighter for cooler temperature protection. A locking YKK zipper runs up front with another on the 4th rear pocket. Reflective details on the back keep the jersey from being too stealthy (though this is probably not the kit if you want to be seen). The bibs get a similar knit as the summer tops, around most of the body, and the back gets a large breathable mesh up the middle of the shoulder straps. Reflective details highlight the back of the thigh, and the leg cuffs promise to offer just the right amount of compression. The chamois is dual layered with raised sit bone pads for added comfort. Sizing range from S – XXL and include a tall size for S-L. Tops : $125 : Bibs : $190.
Those looking for performance clothes and a casual look might be interested in Rapha’s new City lineup. The men’s lineup ranges from jackets to jeans. To get an idea we’ll look into the Hooded Rain jacket and Essential Polo. The Hooded Rain is thin and light with a stretchable fabric allowing for better maneuverability on the bike. Taped seams and adjustable cuffs further prevent water seepage. Colors include black and purple. The Essential Polo is a simple polo shirt with concealed buttons, and a fast drying fabric. Sizes range from XS – XXL and is available in white, navy, grey, and black. Hooded Rain : $340 : Essential Polo :$120
The Athletic‘s La Cubiste collection has men’s and women’s apparel which include long & short sleeve jerseys, socks, riding caps, and bottles. They describe the pattern as a “feel of fallen leaves dotting the trail, or pavement…”, a modern and simple camouflage design does come to mind. The socks get various color options with contrasting colors in each pair. The long sleeve is Castelli’s Team jersey, and the short is their Training jersey. The Aero Race bib shorts don’t get the collection’s pattern, they’re sport The Athletic’s and Castelli’s logos. Prices: L/S Jersey ($140) : S/S Jersey ($120) : Bib Shorts ($220) : Cap ($35) : Socks ($15) : Bottles ($25).
