Are the days of geeky, unisex-looking jerseys numbered?
Moxie Cycling Company wants them to be. But cycling jerseys need to be functional, as well. They need to keep you dry and comfortable, allow for range of motion, and provide places to carry essentials. Are Moxie’s stylish jerseys also workhorses? We’re about to find out.
According to Twin Cities based Moxie Cycling Company, founders, Brooke Freiborg and Deb Amorde, what began as a local presence in Minneapolis has grown into Moxie Cycling jerseys carried by national companies such as Team Estrogen and Scheels for consecutive years.
Within a year of its inception, Moxie had a presence in 15 states with 30 dealers. The jerseys are designed right in Minneapolis, by Brooke and Deb, as well as other local designers. And they’re made by local businesses in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Totally local, and very cool!
Recently, I wore the Moxie Jersey style “Cycledelic” on a 12 mile mountain bike ride to see whether its good looks, (cool graphics, halter top front and 3-pocket, T-back rear), can indeed co-exist with the functionality of a built-in support bra with removable bra cups, ergonomic seams, a tagless design and moisture transporting fabric.
I’m thrilled to say Yes, they can!
FIT AND FUNCTION
The very first thing I noticed from a fit standpoint was the comfort. The material is very stretchy and pliable, and the ergonomic seams and tagless design allow for movement without chafing. The fabric also did a great job wicking away moisture. I stayed cool and dry, even on long, hot, climbs! The material reminds me a lot of very smooth swimsuit fabric.
At first, I thought the jersey was too small for me, but I quickly got used to the feeling because it wasn’t uncomfortable. It was a nice, secure feeling. The jersey still moved with my body. I ordered a Large. I am 5’9″ and of average build and about 138 Lbs. The lower, looser portion wasn’t so loose that it felt like it was going to get caught on my bike seat, or passing branches.
The first thing I noticed from a function standpoint was how happy “the girls” were. This shirt gives amazing support without feeling bulky or tight. No bouncing or jostling, yet didn’t feel like they were “duct-taped” down, either. The built-in bra is high quality and give “the girls” a firm hug without flattening them! Maybe doesn’t quite “lift and separate” my friends, but darn near close!
FORM
I’m a fan of the halter look, as I think it can give a straight torso some nice eye appeal, so I particularily liked the design. I am also a fan of green and turquoise, so I found this particular design eye catching. The jersey is a good length that doesn’t ride up, keeping you covered. Currently, Moxie only offers five different jersey designs, however, a friend at Moxie gave me a sneak-peak at some of the new designs that Moxie will be rolling out in 2013…
The T-back lineup will feature four new designs, as well as three new designs in a sweetheart style and four new designs in a rusched style. The new jerseys for 2013 have similar technical features as the current product line, with the main difference being style. In particular, I think the new rusched styles are killer, and I can’t wait until they’re available this coming Spring.
I am long overdue for updating my cycling shirt wardrobe. I own way too many old-school boxy, man-style jerseys and way too much neon. I am happy to see that I can ride hardcore…while looking sleek and stylish!
