Fast on the heels of the announcement of their Spring/Summer 2016 line, Rapha is celebrating the re-release of their Classic Jersey.
Twelve years ago, Simon Mottram launched Rapha with a Tour de France exhibition in London titled Kings of Pain and featured the Rapha Classic Jersey. In 2004, there was nothing like it. To some, the price seemed outrageous and the austere styling was opposite to everything happening in the professional racing scene. To many, though, it was exactly what they had been waiting for- a flattering shape, elegant aesthetics, and premium materials.
The Classic Jersey defined much of what Rapha stood for in just a single garment. For Spring / Summer 2016, Rapha’s design team looked to improve upon a jersey that has been called “simply perfect” and they delivered 12 key updates with the launch of the Classic Jersey II:
- RPM 150:Â Rapha Performance Merino 150 is lighter, softer on skin and has greater breathability
- Forward Fit:Â Longer sleeves have been repositioned, and the hem is shorter front and back
- Stretch Mesh:Â The valuables pocket bag uses stretch mesh for less weight and more capacity.
- Reflection :Â Valuables pocket outer has a reflective tape over a bonded-in zip for better aerodynamics.
- Streamlined:The sleeve stripe and front hem are bonded for a low-profile finish.
- Debossed:Â A debossed armband logo replaces the old heavier, embroidered logo.
- Collar:Â The construction of the collar has been refined for less bulk and more comfort.
- Stitching:Â Topstitching on the jersey has been minimized for a cleaner finish.
- Main Zip:Â One-piece bonded zip-guard saves weight and bulk and gives an improved zip action.
- Pockets:Â The top of the back pockets has been enhanced for improved abrasion resistance and to reduce colour fade.
- Pump Loop:Â The old pump pocket has been replaced with a loop for improved efficiency.
- Cargo:Â The new construction of three back pockets has bolstered stability and shape.
Rapha Classic Jersey – $170
Fabric – 64% polyester, 36% merino wool
Men’s
- Colors – Black/white, Grey/pink, Navy/white, Purple
- Sizes – XS-XXL
Women’s
- Colors – Black/whtie, Navy / pink
- Sizes – XXS-XL
Available now at www.rapha.cc and in Cycle Club locations: NY, SF, and LA.
The website with a feature, short film and all the details on the Classic Jersey: http://pages.rapha.cc/stories/the-evolution-of-a-classicthe-evolution-of-a-classic
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