Quick Spins – February 6, 2008 Edited by James Huang Got Tech? Send press releases, news, and tech questions to the Cyclingnews tech-heads. Rapha winter clothing Rapha's 3/4 Bib Short and Long Sleeved Sportwool Jersey A full front zip expands the comfort range An adjustable drawcord Thermal knickers may not make sense to everyone Meshy material up top A small pocket out back The Rapha Lightweight Soft Shell Jacket An anecdote about Bernard Hinault Rapha's winter wool cap Most potential buyers would likely (and understandably) be taken aback by the premium pricing commanded by Rapha's line of cycling clothing but at least in this case you can largely see what your money is getting you. As a matter of fact, we'll be the first to admit that US$220 is a hefty sum to pay for a pair of thermal bib knickers that are made from relatively common (and non-windproof) fleece-lined Superroubaix fabric and include an easy-to-find CyTech stretch chamois. As usual, though, the devil is in the details and the Catholic Church probably wouldn't approve of whatever Rapha's designers have done to produce their 3/4 Bib Shorts. The panels are cut in a decidedly unorthodox pattern that removes all seams from the front and back of the knee while simultaneously offering a sublime fit that's neither too snug or too loose anywhere we looked. The perfect length covered just enough of the upper shin to keep us comfortable in surprisingly cold temperatures and gripper elastic in the hem kept them from riding up. Minimal white and reflective details provided some nighttime visibility while adding a disproportionate amount of style considering how little color is actually used. Up top we'll also freely admit that US$200 is a lot of coin to drop on a long-sleeved jersey that is almost entirely devoid of what most would consider 'high tech' materials or even 100% wool for that matter. But again, Rapha's Long Sleeved Sportwool Jersey surprised us with its superbly snug form fit and wonderfully soft hand. The material might not be 100% wool but the dense weave was still surprisingly effective at retaining warmth and blocking out a modicum of cold air. Make no mistake, this isn't exactly a piece intended for the dead of winter on its own, but it's quite effective on its own in cool conditions and offers ample insulation under a shell otherwise (see below). Intelligently laid out pockets include a long skinny one specifically designed for mini-pump and a zippered one that is fully lined with waterproof material (and also printed with a nice little anecdote about Marco Pantani on the inside). There's an adjustable elastic hem for a customizable fit down below, asymmetrical cuffs, more timelessly classic white and reflective details, interior MP3 wire management… the list goes on and on. We might have to draw the line with the Rapha Lightweight Soft Shell Jacket, though, which carries an exorbitant US$295 price tag. Yes, we found the soft shell outer to be awfully comfy, effectively windproof, and perfectly fit as we quickly came to expect from this marque. Yes, the dropped tail provided a little extra coverage and the full complement of pockets (four in total) offered plenty of storage. Yes, the offset full front zip prevented chin irritation (and arguably looks cool). And yes, the adjustable elastic drawcord hem and surprisingly thorough MP3 interior wire management are thoughtful details. And, well, yes, it does look awfully nice. But US$295 for a shell with no insulation to speak of? Hmm. Finishing off our winter test kit was Rapha's wool-blend winter hat. The classic (go figure) style includes a small but useful brim and a ribbed flap around back that provided plenty of coverage. Yup, it's expensive, but it worked extremely well and looked good doing it which many companies can't claim. On the whole, our Rapha pieces were exceptionally well designed, well constructed, and perfectly functional. On top of that, each piece was decadently luxurious in look, feel, and fit. Does that make it worth the price? With perhaps the lone exception of the jacket, we'd likely say yes, at least for the well-heeled who insists on having the best or just wants to pamper themselves. This price range quickly delves into the range of diminishing returns, though, so Is the stuff financially sensible or appropriate for frugal buyers? Hell, no, but that didn't keep them from being the first items we grabbed out of the closet when it came time to head outside. Start saving your pennies. Rapha 3/4 Bib Shorts Price: US$220/€190/£130 Pros: Absolutely superb fit, top-notch styling, exceptional quality both in materials and construction, excellent CyTech stretch chamois, clever seam placement around knees Cons: Awfully expensive for what it is Cyclingnews rating: Rapha Long Sleeved Sportwool Jersey Price: US$200/€175/£120 Pros: Absolutely perfect form fit, useful details all around, timeless styling, luxurious feel, undeniable cachet Cons: Awfully expensive for what it is Cyclingnews rating: Rapha Lightweight Soft Shell Jacket Price: US$295/€255/£175 Pros: Perfect and tunable fit, soft hand, offset zipper, full array of pockets, classic appearance in keeping with rest of collection Cons: Maybe a little too expensive for what it is, no insulation Cyclingnews rating: More info: www.rapha.cc Photography For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here Images by James Huang/Cyclingnews.com Rapha's 3/4 Bib Short and Long Sleeved Sportwool Jersey are undoubtedly expensive, but superbly tailored. Nope, no fancy print patterns here , just timeless style that will last season after season. A full front zip expands the comfort range if it warms up during your ride. You can't see it , but a hidden pocket in the center is sized perfectly for a mini-pump. An adjustable drawcord allows for a tunable fit. Thermal knickers may not make sense to everyone but they offer just the right amount of warmth in the right conditions. The keyhole bib is open and airy yet keeps the straps perfectly positioned. It's the small details that make all the difference. Meshy material up top isn't warm but is very comfortable. A small pocket out back offers a bit of storage and is the perfect place for an MP3 player. The Rapha Lightweight Soft Shell Jacket is similarly styled but we find it hard to justify its cost. An extended tail offers a little extra coverage. A fleecy patch on the rear of the collar is soft next to the skin. Lycra cuffs seal out drafts. An adjustable drawcord allows for a tunable fit. An anecdote about Bernard Hinault is included on the jacket liner. Rapha's winter wool cap was plenty warm and comfortable… …and the slim profile fits easily under helmets.