Nalini has been outfitting a good part of the pro peloton since they were founded in 1970, but the clothes that they sell to the general public has always lagged a bit in the ‘trickle-down factor’.
No more.
For 2015 Nalini has created a dedicated “pro-level” collection, which they are calling Black Label.
Black Label employs the identical technology, fit, fabrics, and design as the gear Nalini supplies to teams like Astana, Cofidis, and Colombia, as well as the handful of teams racing in other brand’s apparel that is also made by Nalini. (They shall remain unnamed, of course.) Vincenzo Nibali won last year’s Tour de France wearing Nalini apparel.
Gianluca Caliari, president of Albabici, the U.S. importer for Nalini, is excited about being able to offer such a high-level product to American cyclists. “Nalini Black Label is an extremely technical performance line,” he explained, “specifically derived from Nalini’s experience in the world of professional teams and cyclists. Exclusive fabrics and treatments, very tight fitting, innovative technical solutions, specific pads – the ultimate design of a cycling apparel. Amateur cyclists can now ride in the same gear that the pros do.”
Nalini Black Label includes two lines with matching accessories, depending on the technical features and purposes: Aeprolight, characterized by extreme lightness and aerodynamic performance, plus design features to enhance comfort in warm climates; and Nanodry, outer-wear garments featuring an innovative water repellent coating, suitable for year-round use in different weather conditions.
Here is a closer look at the best of Nalini Black Label:
Nalini Black Label Aeprolight Body Aerosuit
The flagship item of Nalini Black Label is the Aeprolight Body Aerosuit. At a glance it looks like a simple skinsuit, but beneath that Italian craftsmanship is a garment rife with unique technical solutions that deliver maximum comfort and top-shelf performance.
The Aeprolight Body Aerosuit is precisely constructed from five different fabrics, each one with specific features: the top front features a windproof, ultra-flat and stretchable structure that ensures a slim fit and aerodynamic shape. The striped, slightly rippled fabric on the sleeves and back helps the body slice through the air with reduced turbulence and drag; the anti-abrasive fabric on the crotch helps to avoid abrasion caused by pressure on the saddle; the mesh on the sides aides ventilation; and the hydrophilic and antibacterial fabric with innovative Coldblack™ treatment on the short side panels allows body temperature reduction of 12 degrees C under the sun.
Every detail of the Aeprolight Body Aerosuit (as well as details of the Aeprolight Half Body, Aeprolight Bibshort, and Aeprolight Mesh TI Jersey) performs a specific function: full zipper opening on the front for better ventilation; an internal pocket for the radio; thermo-taped arm and leg cuffs with ultralight silicon grippers reduces excessive muscle compression; specially designed and positioned pad for correct use on the TT bike; and the Xrace ultra-slim fit reduces aerodynamic drag. Sizes: S-XXXXL. MSRP: $405.
Nalini Black Label Aeprolight Compression Bibshorts
Nalini is known worldwide for its bibshorts, and the new Black Label Aeprolight Compression Bibshort is the company’s finest creation ever. Featuring an anatomical cut and an aerodynamically slippery cut and fabrics, the Aeprolight bibshort is a serious riders perfect choice.
The Aeprolight Bibshort is constructed with Hot Moa Xlight fabric that delivers high breathability and light weight, keeping the body cool and dry. Other notable features include anti-abrasive crotch fabric, extra-light front gripper, breathable mesh back, 7.5-cm silicone leg gripper, flat- stitched seams in contrasting color, and Nalini’s proven, comfortable Xrace pad. Available in sizes S-XXL. MSRP: $265.
Nalini Black Label Aeprolight Half Body
The Black Label Aeprolight Half Body short-sleeve jersey is the “top half” of the Aeprolight Body Aerosuit. Same windproof, ultra-flat and stretchable design. Same slim fit and aerodynamic shape.
Same striped, slightly rippled fabric on the sleeves and back to improve air flow. Same mesh on the sides that aids ventilation. And same Coldblack™ fabric treatment. A perfect companion to the Aeprolight Bibshorts. Sizes S-4XL. MSRP: $234.
Visit www.albabici.com and www.nalini.com for more details.
Ron is the chief cook and bottlewasher at Bike World News, doing everything from website design to bike reviews.
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