Rapha
Rapha is hailed as one of the best brands a cyclist can wear, and over the years, they’ve branched out to cater for all kinds of rider. One of Rapha’s recent launches – the All Day leggings and shorts (from £60) – takes this a step further, aiming at recreational cyclists who don’t require any padding in their legwear.
Like Velocio’s Stealth Leggings, they’re designed with versatility in mind and so don’t have the chamois that’s usually featured in bib shorts or tights. They’re a stylish option for commuting into the office or if you’re popping into town to meet a friend.
The key thing here is that, unlike gym or running leggings, they’re technically designed for your position on the bike. Plus, they’re sweat-wicking and quick-drying and feature reflective details to keep you visible in low light.
Sundried
Sundried know first-hand what cyclists want from their kit. After all, their gear is designed by and for pro cyclists and triathletes.
The great thing about Sundried is that their apparel is noticeably cheaper than other cycling gear, especially as it’s aimed more towards the competitive part of the market. Created with aerodynamics in mind, you get a lot of bang for your buck when it comes to the brand.
I recently wore Sundried’s Velo collection (from £60), which is designed for the serious cyclist, where aerodynamics is the focus.
The kit offers a tight skin-like fit, with a soft, luxurious feel and enough support and sweat-wicking technology to ensure you’re comfortable even after a few hours on your bike. Due to the pro-fit sizing, the small is more like an extra small, so consider going for a size larger if you prefer a looser fit.
A lot of careful engineering has gone into the design of this product range to give you a competitive edge.
Sundried’s product designer says: “The premium chamois used in our Velo bib shorts is anatomically padded and shaped specifically for women, to improve comfort. The fit is tapered to provide a more feminine look, and the range is ergonomically designed to flatter and fit a women’s physique, with extra flexibility in the chest and hip regions.”
A great price point and superior technical performance – what’s not to love?