Understated Cycling Kit: Kitsbow Hits The Road

[leadin]High-end mountain bike apparel company Kitsbow recently hit the road, launching an understated line of clothing inspired by the muted tones of the trail.[/leadin]

Form follows function is a mantra that saturates road cycling. But that doesn’t mean it has to look like you t-boned a rainbow.

The two gear-heads behind Kitsbow are known for tailoring top-shelf mountain bike kits with the subtleness of a craftsman haberdasher. This week, they released a new line of apparel dedicated for the road.

Looking at the lineup, it’s clear they didn’t stray too far from the brand’s trail-worthy origins. The kit inspires adventure riding, with several nods to gravel and ‘roadventure’ aesthetics. Here’s a peek at the new gear.

Kitsbow Geyser’s Jersey

The Geyser’s Jersey ($169) is a merino-synthetic blend top, with articulated panels sewn together for an athletic fit. The full-zip front spills the BTU’s when things heat up while the ‘gripper’ waist keeps the shirt from creeping up your back. Three rear pockets keep your kit organized, including a water-resistant zippered pocket for a device. The Geyser’s Jersey is available in three colors: flash, ti-grey, and denim.

King Ridge Windbreaker

A stowable windbreaker is a riding essential, protecting you from the unexpected that lurks three ridges and two pressure systems beyond. Kitsbow’s King Ridge Windbreaker ($179) is tailored for bare-bones riding: an athletic fit that doesn’t flap in the wind, an offset zipper with a soft-knit collar that prevents chafing, and a DWR finished material that all but disappears in your pocket. Made in the USA.

Coleman Valley Bib Short

For long rides, nothing beats the comfort of a bib. They don’t bind at the waist and enable better lung volume and blood circulation. The Coleman Valley Bib Short ($179) is made from Polartec Power Stretch, constantly pumping moisture away from the skin while providing supportive compression. The mesh back keeps the torso cool and hidden leg pockets keep those dispatched Gu gels in check. Made in California.

Hoping to upgrade your spring kit in style without glowing like a pack of highlighters? Give Kitsbow a look.