London, UK cycling brand Rapha was founded by Simon Mottram in 2004. Since then, Rapha has continually produced high quality men’s and women’s cycling clothing and gear for beginners to WorldTour pros.
This spring, we’ve received a few items from Rapha’s current line-up for both men and women to road test, including the stylish Explore Powerweave Shoes, containing a lightweight, 100% polyester woven upper.
Explore Powerweave Shoes
The Rapha Explore Powerweave shoes are very sturdy and they hug my feet nicely. Rapha’s designers thought about every detail; you can sense their passion to bring together the latest materials in a smart and highly practical shoe that does the job for any ride.
The laces in the BOA system are made from the same material as the upper part of the shoe, and all materials blend in and meld to create the overall design and functionality.
I had to get used to the BOA® Fit System, as this is my first pair incorporating this technology, however the Dual-Dial Li2 is very intuitive and allows you to tighten and adjust with precision. I use them for commuting, gravel riding and road biking. The shoes are very light and stiff, and provide seamless power transmission.
[Explore Powerweave Shoe in Dark Yellow]
Although they’re only suited for walking small distances, the rubber sole allows you to walk comfortably. Climbing a set of stairs is a breeze with these. Overall I am very happy with the Powerweaves and I would recommend them to anyone that appreciates a quality, all-around product to enjoy on their cycling adventures.
The Powerweave all-terrain shoe is available in sizes 36 to 47 with a few half sizes (40.5, 41.5, 42.5, 43.5, 44.5, 45.5) and come in Dark Yellow, Dark Navy and Black; CAD $520/USD $380
[Explore Powerweave Shoe in Dark Navy]
As these are unisex in fit, they’re also suitable for women.
Women’s Core Lightweight Jersey
The Core Lightweight Jersey is a good option for warm days. While the front mesh panels allow for airflow and to wick sweat away from your body, the back is more densely knit to protect from the sun.
[Elastic hem inside the Core Lightweight Jersey]
The elastic hem contains good grip to keep the jersey in place and three pockets in the back stow small essentials such as a snack bar, tissues and ID.
I tend to work up a sweat on summer rides, and this lovely jersey is actually composed of two ultralight fabrics to keep you cool.
In Navy, Pale Green Winter and Black, sizes XXS to XL; CAD $130/USD $90
Women’s 3/4 Tights
These 3/4-length, sweat-wicking tights are made from a partly recycled fabric and include a built-in chamois with multiple layers of quick-drying foam. Easy to wash and air-dry, they’ll be ready to use multiple times during the week on spring and summer rides.
Another great feature is the fabric’s UPF50+ sun protection!
The high waist is there for both comfort and to avoid that gap appearing between your tights and your jersey. On the left leg is a phone pocket, and reflective logos are included for low-light visibility.
[Inside the 3/4 tights pocket: A unique story!]
In sizes XS to XL in Black/White, Blue/Grey Blue and Burgundy/Red; CAD $300/USD $215
Merino Gloves
Rapha’s Merino Gloves are ideal for wind protection on chillier mornings. Less bulky than winter gloves and just a bit warmer than summer mitts, these contain an engineered knit designed for comfort against the skin combined with outer nylon for durability.
The palm contains patented, touch screen-compatible AX® suede for good handlebar grip.
While they’re made with elasticized cuffs to keep them snug on your hands, I also like that Rapha has included a pull tab to get them off easily.
In Black/Carbon Grey and Dark Navy/Teal in sizes XS to XL; CAD $105/USD $75
Rapha offers free shipping for orders above CAD $150/USD $99 with free returns. Visit Rapha’s entire cycling collection for both men and women online.
