Another collection reviewed as part of our summer cycle clothing special, this kit from French brand Ravito includes jersey, cap, socks, and mitts.
White bib shorts caused us some trepidation. An ideal choice perhaps for olive-skinned riders with the physique of pro cyclists; those of a paler and bulkier appearance may be less ready to don such attention-grabbing kit. Putting aside our reservations in the name of RCUK, we weathered the comments of riding buddies and found ourselves impressed by the fit and feel.
We liked the substantial padding, made from a variety of technical fabrics (silver ion in the yarn, for example, with claimed anti-bacterial and odour fighting properties), which felt soft, but not spongy. The short was comfortable and the elasticity of the fabric (an 80 per cent polyamide, 20 per cent Elasthane mix) allowed freedom of movement. While the appearance may not appeal to everyone, we found it considered (nice detailing around the left leg, for example).
At 89 Euros (just under £70 at today’s rate) we’d say they were good value. They’re also available in black, and in sizes XS to XXL.
The matching white jersey, made from a DRY-CLIM polyester (a technical fabric with claims to absorb and expel moisture), had a snug fit. It wicked well, and kept us dry, even on the back when commuting with a rucksack. The full-length zip and three rear pockets were further pluses.
The jersey costs 69 Euros (£53.91 at today’s rate), comes in black or white, and is available in sizes from XS to XXL.
The 100 per cent cotton cap continues the classic design theme from the rest of the collection, and costs nine Euros. The peak was a good size, neither obscuring obstacles when lowered or acting as a sail when flipped up. Most impressively, it kept its shape after a trip through the washing machine.
Ravito’s summer mitt has a retro appearance, and continued the stripe theme of other garments from the collection (left glove only, matching the stripe on the left leg of the short). We liked the cushioning on the palm and it’s overall feel. They’re made in Italy (unlike the rest of the collection, which is made in France) and converted our previously glove-less test pilot to the merits of summer mitts. The mitts cost 20 Euros (£15.62 at today’s rate) and are available in sizes from S to XL.
The 16 Euro a pair sock (available in Euro three sizes: 35-38, 39-42, and 43-46), come in black with a light blue toe and a natty multi-coloured stripe on the outward edge of the cuff, and is made from a 64 per cent polyester, 24 per cent polyamide, 10 per cent cotton, and two per cent spandex mix. They kept our feet dry and comfortable.
