Not ready to give up on trail riding even though winter is setting in? Same here. Sure, we’re taking every chance of warm weather and dry trails we can get, but cold & wet is coming. To help you prepare, Rapha just announced the newest additions to their Performance Trailwear lineup. Built with the same attention to detail as their excellent summer gear, these new additions will keep you comfortable on the trail even when the weather has other ideas.
Long Sleeve Technical T-Shirt
Likely one of the first pieces of cool weather gear to reach for, a lightweight long sleeve Technical T-shirt ($90) or jersey is ideal for those days where you need a little more warmth—but not too much. Constructed with the same breathable, moisture-wicking honeycomb fabric as the excellent SS Technical T, this jersey should help keep you dry when sweating up the climbs, but keep you covered once you start descending.
Trail Windblock Jersey
For colder days, Rapha has this new Trail Merino Windblock Jersey ($135). The front of the jersey features an abrasion-resistant windproof panel, while the rear is made from a proprietary merino wool blend. The sleeves are also made from a durable nylon fabric for snag-resistance, making a jersey that shelters you from the wind, but keeps things breathable out back.
Trail Lightweight Jacket
Initially launched with their summer gear, there are new colors of the Trail Lightweight Wind Jacket ($180) including the bright Turmeric. For those that ride in areas that allow hunting in the fall and winter, the brighter color might be a smart choice.
The jackets include also include a removable strap that makes it a cinch to attach it to your bike once it’s packed into the pocket. There’s even a strap guide on the jacket to make it impossible for it to slip off the bike.
Trail Pants
It’s around this time of year where many riders consider making the switch from shorts to pants. That’s getting easier with better options than ever including the new Rapha Trail Pants ($180). Made from a durable woven stretch nylon fabric with a slight texture to the interior for comfort, the pants include a Durable Water Repellent finish. Like the Rapha Trail Shorts, the pants feature a contoured, variable-width belt system which is one of the best we’ve used.
There are two hand warmer pockets, and two hip pockets that are perfect for keeping a cell phone in place. There’s even a loop on the back which you could use for mounting a light for those times you’re pedalling to the trailhead. Meant to be worn with or without kneepads, the knees are reinforced for durability, and like all Rapha Trail products, the pants include a repair kit and can be sent back to Rapha Repairs if needed.
We’ve had a bit of time using these and can confirm—they’re as good as the Rapha Trailwear Shorts, which is to say they’re really, really good. The fit is excellent, with a tapered leg that isn’t tight but also won’t get caught in your chain or rub on your frame. I can wear either the small or medium shorts, but I’m glad Rapha sent the small pants this time around. My typical pants size is a 30/30, and the smalls fit very well.
Women’s Performance Trailwear
All of the fall/winter Rapha Performance Trailwear products are also available in women’s fits, though with fewer color options.
Trail Hip Pack & Socks
While nothing has changed with the Trail Hip Pack ($80) since it was launched earlier this year, Rapha has added a new color called Old Gold. And now there are also Trail Socks in Old Gold to match ($22.50).
