In the realm of cycling clothing, the landscape has become increasingly crowded with numerous companies vying to establish themselves as the standout brand. This saturation of the market has led to a plethora of options for cyclists to choose from, each brand striving to distinguish itself in a competitive industry. Notably, some of these brands secure sponsorship deals with professional cycling teams, and their logos and designs grace the jerseys and shorts of athletes during prestigious events like the Tour de France.
Contents
The Art and Science of Designing Road Cycling Clothing
Designing road cycling clothing is a delicate blend of art and science. It necessitates the creation of the most breathable, top-tier jerseys and other apparel that can deliver optimal performance in all types of riding conditions. This entails not only focusing on functionality but also the aesthetics that appeal to cyclists. Achieving this balance is a nuanced process that combines the scientific aspects of material technology with the artistic endeavor of creating visually appealing, stylish designs that resonate with the cycling community.
In this highly competitive market, brands continually push the boundaries of innovation to offer cyclists a diverse range of choices, ensuring that cycling clothing meets the demanding needs of both amateurs and professionals, while still maintaining an attractive and stylish appearance.
RAPHA
Rapha, a relatively modern entrant in the cycling brand landscape, emerged less than two decades ago. Not quite twenty years ago, founders Simon Mottram and Luke Scheybeler chose the name of a cycling team from the 1960s to start creating fashion-focused road cycling clothes. Then, in 2013, their sponsorship of Team Sky marked a significant leap onto the global stage, with a heightened focus on performance. However, what distinguishes Rapha today goes beyond these milestones.
The turning point for Rapha occurred when they transitioned from their Team Sky sponsorship in 2015. Instead of aligning with another men’s team, they opted to support the UCI Women’s WorldTour team, Canyon-SRAM, making a bold statement with their distinctive designs. This move was unlike anything else, signaling that the brand was committed to elevating women’s racing.
In 2018, Rapha further solidified its unique identity with the introduction of the Explore line. It signified a departure from traditional European racing, embracing a broader, more versatile cycling approach. These two defining moves have blended to establish Rapha as a brand synonymous with both men’s and women’s WorldTour sponsorship and the world of off-road riding in all its forms.
CASTELLI
Rich history isn’t always a prerequisite for creating top-tier cycling apparel. However, some brands, like Castelli, boast an extensive lineage that dates back to a small tailor shop in Milan in 1876. Castelli has earned numerous industry firsts, pioneering the manufacturing of Lycra race shorts, introducing sublimated printing for jerseys and shorts, and pioneering thermal winter clothing, among other groundbreaking innovations. Today, Castelli serves as the official clothing sponsor for the QuickStep-AlphaVinyl team, offering a diverse range of high-quality products across various price points.
Of notable importance, Castelli underwent a change of ownership in the late ’90s and now falls under the same corporate brand umbrella as Sportful, with a shared commitment to sustainability. The parent company, rooted in Northern Italy, has dedicated a substantial portion of its resources to sustainability efforts. In 2021, they launched an initiative aimed at reimagining product design to prioritize durability, reusability, ease of repair, and recyclability—a commendable endeavor benefiting the company, its customers, and the environment.
ASSOS
Assos, a renowned Swiss brand, has a storied history of pioneering advancements in cycling clothing. Back in the mid-1970s, they made their mark by being the first to introduce and market Lycra shorts. These groundbreaking shorts revolutionized the cycling apparel industry by offering a form-fitting, stretchable fabric that significantly improved comfort and performance for cyclists. Consequently, Assos laid the foundation for the moisture-wicking fabrics that have become an integral component of contemporary cycling clothing.
High-Quality Performance Gear
Assos has consistently delivered high-quality products that cater to both amateur and professional cyclists. Their range of cycling clothing is celebrated for its robustness, comfort, and performance. This commitment to quality has earned them the trust of cyclists worldwide.
Competitive Success and Innovation
Assos’s dedication to innovation has not gone unnoticed in the world of competitive cycling. Their products have been worn by riders who have gone on to win over 250 gold medals in prestigious competitions such as the Olympic Games and World Championships. Such accolades highlight Assos’s relentless pursuit of performance and technological advancement in cycling clothing.
Swiss Alps-Inspired Design
Assos’s unique approach to product design takes its inspiration from the challenging terrain of the Swiss Alps. This geographical influence is reflected in the robustness of their bibs, jerseys, and other essentials. This ensures their ability to withstand the harshest weather conditions, whether it’s extreme cold or scorching heat.
Crafting Equipment, Not Just Clothing
Assos prides itself on creating not mere cycling clothing, but equipment for cyclists. Their focus is not solely on fashion but on functionality as well. They have created gear that elevates the overall riding experience. This is accomplished by, providing optimal comfort, performance, and protection. This approach signifies Assos’s commitment to going beyond conventional apparel. They have crafted equipment that aids cyclists to conquer diverse conditions with confidence and style.
PEARL IZUMI
Pearl Izumi represents a brand of dualities. It maintains a wide distribution network. They can be found many small bike shops and outdoor stores specializing in cycling gear. Offering relatively affordable prices and well-crafted products, Pearl Izumi is accessible to a broad consumer base. However, beneath this unassuming facade lies a second layer of innovation and tech-focused gear. This distinguishes the brand from its competitors. Pearl Izumi was the pioneer of mountain bike-specific apparel. For example, the BOA closure system for shoes, and the lobster cycling glove, demonstrating a commitment to both style and performance.
In terms of sustainability and social responsibility, Pearl Izumi stands out for its dedication to making the world a better place through its environmental footprint. The brand continuously evolves its material sourcing goals, with a current target of achieving 98% of sustainable materials in its product range by 2024, showcasing a robust commitment to lasting positive change.
POC
While POC is primarily recognized for its high-quality helmets, the brand also excels in crafting exceptional cycling apparel. POC is making significant strides in adopting sustainable business practices, prioritizing sustainability in its product design. For example, the POC Myelin helmet utilizes recycled materials, features glueless construction, and boasts a design with disposal considerations.
Just like other companies in this list, POC dedicates a section of its website to sustainability initiatives, which it refers to as “Project Blueprint,” demonstrating its commitment to a more environmentally conscious approach to its products and operations.
ENDURA
Founded in Scotland in 1993 by Jim MacFarlane. Endura Cycling Clothing was born out of dissatisfaction with the available cycling attire of the time. Although initially drawn to time trials, the brand found its niche in producing mountain bike clothing. Subsequently, their clothing was well-suited for Scotland’s unpredictable weather conditions. Today, Endura produces technical clothing for both road and off-road disciplines.
Until recently, Endura served as the clothing sponsor for Team Movistar. The riders sported Endura’s Pro SL and D2Z Aero kits. However, the brand exited the World Tour in October 2019, citing limitations imposed by the UCI as a developmental dead end.
MAAP
Established in 2014, MAAP Cycling is a relatively new entrant in the realm of riding apparel. Founded by Oliver Cousins and Jarrad Smith, MAAP embraces a distinct fashion element. With decades of design and fashion experience, the founders have collaborated with renowned brands such as Stussy, Mambo, and Globe. Their goal is to instill a sense of style into MAAP’s gear without compromising on performance. MAAP sources its fabrics from Swiss and Italian mills, with production based in Milan. The brand has even worked alongside sports scientist Ken Ballhause to design its own chamois, emphasizing the importance of performance.
CLICK ON ITEM FOR MORE INFORMATION
 |
|
 |
 |
We link items through our Amazon Affiliate Links. What are Amazon affiliate links? It’s a way for you to help your favorite creators! Moreover, It doesn’t cost you anything to use our links and we will get a small % of the sale. You can actually go to another item you were going to buy anyway and tell us thanks by using our link. It’s a win win! We give info and our time, you buy what you need. Thank you for your support!