Search and State S1-A jersey and S1-S bibs
Search and State is young, but since its launch in 2012 the brand’s reputation has grown quickly among cyclists who appreciate the finer things.
I rode in the S1-A jersey ($140) and S1-S bibs ($215) for the week of NorCal riding. Both pieces are produced in Manhattan’s Garment District, along with the rest of Search and State’s offerings.
The jersey is rock solid. The fabric is super comfortable and the fit worked well for long days in the saddle — athletic cut, but not too tight. Check out the brand’s new S2-R Performance Jersey for a racing fit.
A standout feature for me was the zipper from Riri, a brand that makes zippers for the sails of world cup racing boats. It’s difficult to describe it until you use it, but it’s sure as hell a lot tougher than anything I’ve ever used from YKK. I wouldn’t rate the jersey as a “Drop everything, and buy it now!” but it certainly could make sense on a birthday wish list.
As for the S1-S bibs… Once you get past the $215 punch in the gut, you’ll have yourself some of the most comfortable big mileage bibs out there. I’ve worn seven or eight different brands of bibs, so I can’t speak to the entire market, but these are, undoubtedly, the most comfortable pair I’ve worn for long days in the saddle. The luxurious fabric and multi-density foam Cytech chamois make the S1-S the perfect accomplice for long hours of pedaling.
*Be sure to check out Search and State’s new women’s riding gear.
