572cv
08-04-2014, 07:39 PM
So, all this banter about carefully designed clothing has been interesting to read about here, but one does not know, really, until one tries out the items in question. Therefore, a toe in the water approach was my response.
This winter I caught a sale on the Rapha gillet, found a white one, and have ridden many happy miles with it. It is very well designed, and has been durable and handsome on the bike, not to mention visible. A very good fit, though the shoulders are a little loose on me, which means a tiny bit of flutter at speed. Generally way better than any of the other garments of this type that I have had, though, and that encouraged me to try something else.
The something else was the Assos factory store site. As with Rapha, I could not bring myself to pay full freight on something I had not tried, so I ended up with some bibs and a jersey. I have to say that I have never had anything that fit as well as these do, by a long shot. I get it now. The increment one pays for careful design is rewarded by.... careful design ! The jersey moves with you, stays taught but not tight, and has thoughtful touches throughout. 6 pockets! great breathing. The bibs are an older generation, but the comfort and detailing are terrific. My daughter even noted that I looked spiffy. That's a mark of excellence.....
These are the two makers/purveyors of goods I have tried, though now I will look more closely at others as well.
The Paceline is to blame for my more enjoyable riding this year :) Thanks for all the unwitting encouragement!
This winter I caught a sale on the Rapha gillet, found a white one, and have ridden many happy miles with it. It is very well designed, and has been durable and handsome on the bike, not to mention visible. A very good fit, though the shoulders are a little loose on me, which means a tiny bit of flutter at speed. Generally way better than any of the other garments of this type that I have had, though, and that encouraged me to try something else.
The something else was the Assos factory store site. As with Rapha, I could not bring myself to pay full freight on something I had not tried, so I ended up with some bibs and a jersey. I have to say that I have never had anything that fit as well as these do, by a long shot. I get it now. The increment one pays for careful design is rewarded by.... careful design ! The jersey moves with you, stays taught but not tight, and has thoughtful touches throughout. 6 pockets! great breathing. The bibs are an older generation, but the comfort and detailing are terrific. My daughter even noted that I looked spiffy. That's a mark of excellence.....
These are the two makers/purveyors of goods I have tried, though now I will look more closely at others as well.
The Paceline is to blame for my more enjoyable riding this year :) Thanks for all the unwitting encouragement!