Rapha + GORE collab to create drier wet weather kit
Rapha and GORE-TEX today announced a first-ever partnership to develop three new wet weather cycling jackets using Gore’s most technically advanced waterproof-breathable fabrics, for those committed to riding Zwift-free miles year-round.
“Rapha and GORE-TEX have always been at the forefront of technical product innovation. GORE-TEX are a crucial ‘ingredient’ in waterproof clothing for extreme conditions and we’re confident Rapha + GORE-TEX jackets will withstand the wettest of weathers,” explained Alex Valdman, the Creative Director at Rapha, in a press release issued jointly by both companies.
The new kit empowers riders to face the rain, keeping them on their bike longer - even in extreme weather. The Pro Team Lightweight GORE-TEX Jacket, the Pro Team Insulated GORE-TEX Jacket and the Explore GORE-TEX Jacket have been developed in collaboration with EF Education First Pro Cycling and CANYON//SRAM Racing.
“The collaboration of Rapha with GORE-TEX product technologies, beginning in Fall 2019 is an exciting partnership opportunity for two brands with strong legacies in technical products,” said Rick Macdonald, European Sales Leader at the W. L. Gore & Associates Fabric Division. "The jackets will feature Gore’s innovative, forward-thinking approach to what is possible in road cycling technology.”
How much better can modern cycling kit get? Judging by these releases (in pictures, anyway), maybe a lot. Check the specs:
The new Pro Team Lightweight waterproof jackets for both men and women employ GORE-TEX SHAKEDRYTM with a waterproof membrane on the external facing of the two-layer construction, enabling water to bead off fabric. Without the outer layer being saturated and cold, the wearer theoretically remains warm and dry. At 49 gsm (grams per square metre) GORE-TEX SHAKEDRYTM fabric is also light and packable, good for stowing in pockets in case of sudden showers.
For added warmth under the worst race conditions the Pro Team Insulated GORE-TEX Jacket features SHAKEDRYTM fabric backed with PolarTec Alpha, a lightweight synthetic insulation developed for the US military, which delivers an incredible warmth-to-weight ratio. PolarTec Alpha has already been used in a range of insulated Rapha products. The GORE-TEX Stretch material features in the storm hood, on the lower back, at the cuffs guaranteeing a more refined fit and a storm-proof protection.
For the Explore GORE-TEX Hooded Pullover, the company has used GORE-TEX ActiveTM lightweight three-layer fabric to construct a hooded quarter-zip jacket that is both waterproof and breathable. The Pullover offers a relaxed fit and soft next-to-skin feel to provide exceptional comfort both on and off the bike.
All of the GORE-TEX products in the Rapha range feature taped seams, secure closures, vents for added breathability and elasticated cuffs for a storm-proof seal, while their incredible lightweight delivers extreme packability. General release is expected October 9th.
A review of the Rapha x GORE jackets expected soon.