Historically, cyclists have often overlooked the importance of their cycling attire, instead fixating on elements like cutting-edge wheels, top-of-the-line bicycles, and trendy accessories to enhance their riding experience. While these aspects are significant, it's equally essential to pay attention to the clothing you wear while participating in this exhilarating sport.
In this article, I will highlight the ten premier cycling clothing brands of 2023 that you might consider. As is customary in buyers’ guides, I will elucidate the reasons why these brands are distinguished. However, it’s important to note that the selection criteria extend beyond just a singular product; I have taken into account the brand's overall heritage, operational philosophies, and various market factors.
For your convenience, the table below showcases the ten outstanding brands that have made our list for quick reference.
Brand
Year Established
Country of Origin
Endura
1993
Scotland, UK
Rapha
2003
United Kingdom
Sportful
1972
Italy
Castelli
1878
Italy
MAAP
2014
Italy
Pearl Izumi
1950
Tokyo, Japan
Velocio
2015
England, UK
POC
2005
Sweden
Oakley
1975
USA
Pas Normal Studios
2015
Denmark
Endura
Founded in 1993 by Jim McFarlane in Scotland, Endura Cycling Clothing emerged from a personal quest for quality. Frustrated by the lack of suitable options on the market, Jim took the initiative to create a brand that catered to cyclists' needs.
Although initially focused on time trials, Endura has since distinguished itself in the realm of mountain biking apparel. Given Scotland's unpredictable weather, it’s no surprise that the brand's clothing performs exceptionally well across various conditions.
Today, Endura offers apparel tailored for all cycling disciplines, whether on the road or on rugged terrains. Until 2019, the brand served as the clothing sponsor for Movistar and D2Z Aero Kits, but they concluded their sponsorship due to diminishing confidence in UCI's regulations.
Among the renowned pieces from Endura are the Pro SL Shell Jacket II, Pro SL Primaloft II Jacket, and FS260 Pro Bib Shorts.
Rapha
The Rapha brand was established about two decades ago by Luke Scheybeler and Simon Mottram. Inspired by a 1960s cycling team, they aimed to recreate the essence of road cycling apparel. Their sponsorship of Team Sky in 2013 propelled Rapha into the global spotlight and significantly enhanced its brand reputation.
However, following the end of this sponsorship in 2015, Rapha shifted its focus and chose to sponsor Canyon-SRAM, a UCI Women’s WorldTour team. This strategic decision and their innovative designs for women’s apparel signaled a new direction for the brand within the cycling community.
By 2018, Rapha unveiled its Explore line, which further confirmed that the brand was not solely focused on traditional European racing attire. The decision to back a women’s team and the launch of this iconic line have largely shaped Rapha's identity today.
Sportful
Sportful's inception was much like many other fashion brands. Founded by Giordano Cremonese in 1972, Sportful was inspired by a local 70 km ski race, which highlighted the absence of adequate clothing for such demanding events.
Motivated by this gap, Giordano created high-quality acrylic garments, and by 1985, Sportful had cemented its reputation as a premier skiwear brand before transitioning into cycling apparel. In the 1990s, Sportful acquired the esteemed Italian brand Castelli, allowing both brands to maintain distinct identities while collaborating on sustainability initiatives.
Some classic offerings from Sportful include the SuperGiara Bib Shorts, Fiandre Norain Team Bibtight, and the Hot Pack No Rain Jacket.
Castelli
Castelli boasts a rich history, having originated in Milan, Italy, in 1878. What began as a simple tailor's shop has flourished into a pioneering brand known for numerous innovations.
This brand holds the distinction of producing the first Lycra shorts for competitive cycling, developing Aero Skinsuits, and introducing thermal gear for winter cycling, among many other milestones. Presently, Castelli sponsors teams such as QuickStep-AlphaVinyl and Giro d’Italia, offering a comprehensive range of affordable yet high-quality apparel for cyclists.
In the 1990s, Castelli underwent a change in ownership to Sportful, yet both brands continue to operate under similar sustainability principles, focusing on creating recyclable, reusable, and durable products.
MAAP
MAAP emerged as a prominent cycling clothing brand in 2014, founded by Oliver Cousins and Jarrad Smith, who brought their extensive fashion and design experience from notable companies like Mambo, Globe, and Stussy.
Sourcing fabric primarily from Italy and Switzerland, MAAP’s production predominantly takes place in Italy. Collaborating with scientists and Ken Ballhause, the founder of Adaptive Human Performance, the brand specializes in crafting high-performance chamois. MAAP is also dedicated to enhancing the longevity and sustainability of its products.
Recognizing that cycling apparel can be a significant investment, MAAP's clothing is designed to be durable and eco-friendly, with ongoing efforts to uphold sustainability. Notable items include the MAAP Pro Bib 2.0, MAAP Alt_Road Jersey, and MAAP Emerge Ultralight Pro Jersey.
Pearl Izumi
It's rare to find a cycling apparel shop that doesn't stock products from Pearl Izumi. The brand is celebrated not only for its widespread availability but also for its high-quality offerings, which have garnered a loyal customer base. Additionally, Pearl Izumi ranks among the most affordable brands on this list.
In addition to performance, Pearl Izumi places great emphasis on innovative designs and technology. Their strategic plan for the next few years aims to develop sustainable and durable products, appealing to those cyclists seeking an upgrade from conventional cycling clothing. If you resonate with this approach, Pearl Izumi is
