A good piece of cycling clothing has a few jobs to do – it has to fit well and allow mobility, it has to keep you protected from weather conditions while controlling your inner climate, and it’s gotta look good all the while. Thankfully companies like Rapha and Velocio are putting out thoughtful, quality garments with us riders squarely in their sights.
For the ladies, Rapha has added some functional style by popping high-vis reflective dots all over the back of their existing Women’s Rain Jacket. Fellow garment makers Velocio have recently added a new vest to their versatile Recon collection, which comes in both women’s and men’s styles. Click below the break for the finer details of each…
Rapha Polka Dot Women’s Rain Jacket
Rapha has updated the design of their 2015 Women’s Rain Jacket, which now features reflective polka dots splashed across the back panel to increase your visibility and reduce the chances of a car-vs-bike accident. A reflective Rapha logo also adorns your lumbar region, and two small reflective stripes accent the sleeves near your wrists.
The jacket is fully waterproof, with taped seams at the shoulders and upper arms plus Aquaguard zippers to ensure you stay happy and dry. It is also breathable and lightweight enough to stuff into a jersey pocket when not needed.
The jacket’s face fabric is made from False Twist Nylon, and the back panel is 85% Nylon with 15% Elastane to allow for a bit of stretch. In order to make the jacket more comfortable against bare skin when worn over short sleeved jerseys, three ply fabric is used for the forearms.
Other features include a diagonal full length front zipper, zippered pockets on each side and an elongated tail and high collar to provide full coverage against the elements. Sizes XXS-XL are available, and color options include Raspberry Pink or black. The Women’s Rain Jacket can be purchased online for 210€ ($225 USD).
Velocio Recon Quilted Vest
Velocio has just added a new piece to their existing Recon line, a collection of cycling clothing that offers comfort, durability and versatile style for on-bike performance and a dash of panache at the coffee shop or apres-ride stop.
The Recon vest is an insulating layer that can be worn with just about any outfit, from your full race kit to a casual get-up of your daily streetwear. The vest is anatomically designed for riders with Velocio’s ‘cycling fit’, which incorporates a shaped collar and long rear hem. The Recon vest is a bit relaxed, so the company advises sizing down if you prefer a snug hug.
The vest is made from breathable, odor-resistant (and sustainably raised) merino wool with a lightweight, windproof Pertex Quantum shell fabric on the front and side panels. Quilted side panels add a bit of detail and provide good insulation without excess bulk.
The Recon features a two-way nickel-plated main zipper, plus two front and one rear zippered pockets. Reflective logos and trim ensure motorists see you on the road, and an included light loop can carry a rear blinker on darker rides.
The Recon vest costs $269 USD through Velocio’s website and comes in black only. XS to XXL sizes are available for Men, and Women’s sizes go from XXS-XL.
