SKINS was started by an Australian skier in 2002, who spent the previous five years chasing his goal of developing performance and recovery enhancing athletic garments. Their company mission is simple, and perhaps a little cheeky: to radically improve the world of sport, one pair of tights at a time.
While there is some debate over the functionality of compression wear, SKINS is clearly on the ‘Pro’ side of the argument. They’re quite happy to cite scientific studies and point out that their garments must be effective since they’re banned from all professional cycling tours! SKINS has a bunch of new compression gear for men and women in their cycling specific line, so click past the break for photos and details…
The men’s bib longs feature SKINS’ engineered gradient compression and SKINmuscle+ construction to support your muscles during activity. They also feature a premium men’s chamois, SKINdry moisture wicking technology, ceramic treated anti-friction inside leg panels, silicone grippers at the hem, plus mesh inserts and breathable straps to keep you cool. The men’s bibshorts are much the same in materials and features as the bib longs, just with shorter legs. The bib longs sell for $234.99 USD, the shorts cost $194.99, and they come in S-XXL sizes. Black is the only color option.
The Gottardo jersey comes in either a short or long sleeve cut. It uses the SKINdry moisture wicking technology, and partial gradient compression and SKINmuscle+ support in the arms. Overall the jersey provides a looser fit with stretchy areas for comfort and mobility. Bacteriostatic fibres sewn into the armpits reduce odor accumulation and friction, and side mesh panels help you vent. The Gottardo jersey has an elastic bottom hem, full front zipper and three rear pockets with reflective detailing. The long sleeve jersey costs $129.99, and comes in black/white only. The short sleeve version is $104.99, with the option of black/white or emerald green/white. Both come in S-XXL sizes.
SKINS Tremola Jersey also comes with short or long sleeves, and employs the same construction features and fabrics as the Gottardo jersey but with a different cut that provides a closer fit. It also has the bacteriostatic underarms and three rear pockets, but the Tremola adds a mesh panel on the back for highly efficient cooling. The Tremola long sleeve is $144.99, and comes in black/white or red/black/white. The short sleeve costs $119.99, and has the same color options. Both are available in sizes S-XXL.
The women’s bibshorts are built with SKINS gradient compression, supportive SKINmuscle+ design, SKINdry fabric and the premium women’s chamois. The company designs the SKINfit women’s garments using BMI (body mass index) based calculations to achieve an ergonomic, comfortable fit. Ceramic treated panels are located on the inside of the thighs to reduce friction, and other details include reflective accents, a breathable bib and an elastic hem with silicone grippers.
The women’s shorts feature a high waistband for a comfortable fit that also shapes your waistline, but are otherwise identical to the women’s bibs described above. The bibshorts cost $189.99, and the shorts sell for $169.99. Both come in sizes XS-XL, and in black only.
The women’s Tremola jersey is constructed with partial compression and SKINmuscle+ stability in the arms, SKINdry moisture management, and provides a comfortable SKINfit BMI-based fit. The jersey has a stand-up collar, elastic bottom hem, stretch panels for mobility, odor-reducing armpit fibres, a full length zipper, mesh back vents and three rear pockets with reflective panels. The women’s Tremola jersey only comes with short sleeves, and costs $119.99. Color options are either black/white or black/pink, and sizes XS-XL are available.
