Founded by Simon Mottram in 2004, British cycling brand Rapha produces high quality men’s and women’s cycling clothing and gear for beginners to WorldTour pros. They’ve worked with some of the sport’s best, and formerly served as title sponsor to both the British UCI Continental team Rapha-Condor and Team Sky.
We’ve seen more and more Rapha gear on our Vancouver cycling routes, as cyclists recognize the UK brand’s reputation for quality, design and craftsmanship.
With the holidays just around the corner, we chose a few pieces from their current men’s collection to showcase for our cycling fans, including the gorgeous, limited-edition Paul Smith Classic Long-Sleeve Jersey.
Paul Smith Classic Jersey
This eye-catching Paul Smith collaboration jersey is super cool and stocked with great features for riding. Rapha created it exclusively for the Royal Cycling Club (there’s a version with RCC logo, and one without).
A series of coloured stripes at the zip-up and along each side pops against a bunny black-on-black patterned jersey. The left sleeve has an orange band, the right sleeve an embroidered Paul Smith bunny patch.
On the rear bottom is a second crosshair design patch. And the front completes the look with a Rapha + Paul Smith embroidered logo.
It’s about the coolest jersey we’ve come across yet and it’s warm, cozy and has all the features you’d expect from a jersey: A chin guard on top of the quarter-length zip, three rear pockets for stowing essentials, plus an elastic hem with silicon coating and adjustable cord for a secure fit, so it won’t ride up on your back during your rides.
It’s made of a heavier, winter-weight Merino 190 blend (including post-consumer recycled polyester) to keep you warm. The soft material feels good against the skin too. And because the jersey contains Merino, it’s both antibacterial and odour-resistant.
In sizes XS to XXL in multicolour plus black, as well as a navy version with the same details plus RCC logos on the front, side arm and back of neck collar; CAD $300/USD $215
Cargo Winter Tights with Pad
Rapha created the Cargo Winter Tights with extra warmth via fleece-lined fabric underneath for keeping in the heat on chilly days.
The legs are finished with a thin trim of fabric, close to the reflective elements for low-light visibility. As well, there are two side pockets that are perfect for cash, ID or a smart phone, with Rapha reflective logos.
One of the side pockets hides a secret text. It’s always fun to explore Rapha gear! The tights fit snugly around your legs and they stay put during rides. The sizing we selected (XL) is a perfect length for longer legs, that leaves less of a gap between your shoes and ankles.
The classic chamois pad is thick and a bit on the large size, and feels somewhat uncomfortable while walking, but that sensation goes away while riding — the pad offers much support in the saddle and keeps your butt warm.
We like the contrasting bib material made of a lightweight stretch fabric that gives your upper body a chance to breathe. For temperates below 0 degrees Celsius, Rapha may want to consider making these with an even thicker fleece layer, as in my opinion you need all the warmth you can get in the cold, especially during Canadian winters.
In Black and Navy/Dark Navy, sizes XS to XXL; CAD $275/USD $185
Merino Base Layer
A base layer is essential in all-seasons, but even more crucial to wear when riding in cold weather. A thin Merino base layer is easy to layer, helps to regulate body temperature, and is moisture-wicking and odour-resistant due to the 100% Merino wool content.
They’re designed with flat-lock stitching positioned behind the shoulders so your bib straps won’t rub against the seams while riding.
The back part is a little longer to offer both comfort and fit on the bike. This base layer has a retro look and feel, which we like a lot. Rapha usually goes the extra mile and in this case, they’ve attached a tag to this shirt with a couple of ‘history lessons’ from the famous Italian rider Gino Bartali.
The Merino base layer comes in black, grey and navy, sizes XS to XXL; CAD $130/USD $95
Pro Team Winter Socks
Nothing like a pair of trustworthy Merino wool socks to keep your feet warm on winter rides. Rapha’s Pro Team Winter socks are also moisture-wicking to avoid that cold, damp feeling on wet days. They’re sturdy and fit nice and tight around your foot and ankle.
They’re also easy to put on, fit very well in my regular bike shoes without added bulk, yet still keep my feet warm enough during colder rides.
These cozy socks come in two colour combinations: Olive Green/White and Black/White, in sizes XS to XL; CAD $42/USD $30
Discover Rapha’s collection for men and women online.
