When I first hopped on a mountain bike, it was certainly what you’d call humble beginnings. I borrowed the bike (and an ugly old helmet), but after one ride I was hooked. My collection of all things MTB thus began, and it didn’t take long to realize the value of high-quality riding gear. In this roundup, we’ll check out some of the latest clothing and accessory offerings from Donkey Label, Strider and Rudy Project.
CX riders can now subtly salute cyclocross riding and show a little flash of style, while keeping it ‘on the down low’ with Donkey Label’s new DL Cross jersey. Rudy Project has added a new model to next year’s lineup of sunglasses, and for the young ones Strider has some functional jerseys and a super fun superhero cape to spark two-wheeled journeys through imaginary worlds. Jump past the break for details…
Donkey Label DL Cross Jersey
The 2016 men’s DL Cross jersey sneaks Donkey Label’s cross logo into a splash of color on the front, yet keeps the styling subtle otherwise. This made in the USA jersey provides a snug ‘race’ fit with elongated bicep hugging sleeves, three back pockets, and a full length front zipper with a branded zipper pull.
The jersey is made from a mix of technical fabrics- The base material is a dimple-textured knit, three Italian-made mesh panels offer excellent ventilation and a little stretch for a cozy fit, and the inner collar and lower sleeves are made of spandex, which requires no seam or hem stitching.
The jersey also features small tab logos on the back of the arms so you can assemble a style-matched kit with Donkey Label’s shorts and socks. The DL Cross jersey sells for $165 USD online, and comes in sizes XS to XXL.
Strider Superhero Cape and Kid’s Jerseys
San-Diego’s run-bike manufacturer Strider is adding a little performance and a little straight up fun for young riders with their kids’ jerseys and Superhero Capes. Either would make a great accessory for any future ripper, especially if they found a Strider bike under the Christmas tree this year.
I still remember the feeling of cruising around on my first bike, and the newfound mobility definitely made me feel like a superhero! Every hero needs a cape, so Strider has designed one for imaginative kids over the age of three. The Superhero Cape comes in bright yellow, and is made from durable and machine washable polyester. The cape measures 18” wide and 19” long, and has an easily adjustable Velcro neck closure. Here’s the best part for parents- the cape is very affordable at just $7.99 USD.
Since we ‘big kids’ know how great a proper technical jersey feels for riding, it seems only right to pass on the comfort and style to your junior ripper(s). Accordingly so, Strider offers a line of colorful, moto-inspired long sleeve Racing Jerseys for the young ones.
The jerseys are made of 100% polyester, which helps shield the sun with UV 30 protection. The machine washable jerseys use non-fade graphics to maintain their looks for the long run, and feature a V-neck collar and hammed sleeves. The kid’s Racing Jerseys come in eight colors and are available in four toddler sizes (2T, 3T, 4T and 5T). MSRP is just $20.00. Strider’s Superhero Cape and Racing Jerseys are available online now, and at local Strider dealers soon.
New Rudy Project Sunglasses- Tralyx model range
Rudy Project has recently added to their 2016 collection with the new Tralyx sunglasses. The Tralyx is designed to fit medium or large faces, and their skeletal frames keep the weight down to just one ounce.
In addition to their RP-D Centered Optics (which minimizes visual distortion in their curved lenses) the Tralyx has a few other cool new features. Rudy Project’s Powerflow ventilation system keeps air flowing efficiently through the frames to prevent condensation, and an Ergonose IX nosepiece with anti-slip pads keeps them sitting securely. They also have Adaptive Tips, meaning the arms can be gently hand-bent to custom fit your face.
The Tralyx is available in a wide range of frame colours and interchangeable lens combos, including the option of Rudy Project’s highly durable Impact X-2 photochromic lenses. Prices range between $224.99-274.99 USD, and they are now available online.