A multiyear review of Rapha`s classic, training and long sleeve jerseys
Over the course of my cycling journey I have picked up four Rapha jerseys. All on sale or used. Two wool-synthetic mix long sleeve, a classic shortsleeve and a Pro Team training jersey. Except for the hottest, coldest and wettest rides these are my go tos.
Quality and build
Out of the box the great manufacturing quality and engineering is obvious (no loose threads to be found here). But what stands out most for me is how these jerseys stand up to years and tens of thousands of kilometers of use. Especially the two wool based long sleeve jerseys are still almost flawless and the colors pop like on day one.
The pro team training jersey is holding up very well also but does start to get a tiny bit loose at the arm grippers after three years of heavy use.
The classic (left) and training jerseys (right) in Spain and France respectively.
Regarding sizing I have found that their small size works well for me (182cm and roughly 66kg). The wool jerseys are regular fit in that size and the training jerseys are tight but not racing tight.
Style
Rapha might be the OG boutique/high end cycling kit brand and it is also the one that might be most associated with the „cycling is the new golf“ meme. Their kit is not as Gucci as some of the smaller and newer brands but still carries a bit of that vibe in my opinion.
The long sleeve on some spring ride in the Alps and the training jersey in goof mode.
Besides that the designs are mostly very simple and the colors on offer do stand out - both style and actual on road visibility wise.
Value
The list price for any of the four items I own does give me severe sticker shock. With prices running from 130 to 170 Euro. However there are liquidation sales on their website almost all the time and with some patience and good timing you will be able to lob off 40% or even 50% of that price. At that discounted price investing in a solid kit that can be used for years does make absolute sense.
That said: Nobody „needs“ high end gear, but if you spend several hours (or more) a week on your bike it will for sure improve the experience.
Note: I have bought all of the gear mentioned in the article.