Due for launch on 1 September and available shortly thereafter, Rapha’s autumn/winter 2010 collection comprises 80 items, 23 of which are new, spread across Racing and Training, City Riding, Women’s and Skincare ranges in addition to the Rapha+Paul Smith collection.
Skincare products, which include a chamois cream, winter embrocation and soap feature a fragrance inspired by the herbs and plants growing on the slopes of Mont Ventoux. The Women’s Collection builds on the capsule range launched earlier this year with a Classic Softshell Jacket tailored to the female form, a Long-Sleeve Jersey and Women’s 3/4 Bib Shorts as tested by the Rapha Condor women’s team.
Racing and Training is extended with the introduction of “Deep Winter” garments such as tights and gloves suitable for riding in exceptionally low temperatures. The core range gets upgrades to old favourites such as the Rain Jacket, Winter Jersey and Long-Sleeve Jersey and there are new items in the shape of Leg Warmers and Rapha oversocks by DeFeet.
City Riding gets new Rapha Softshell Trousers in the same breathable fabric as the Softshell Jacket and, star item for many, Rapha Jeans, which have been in development for two years. The fabric, unique to Rapha, is a durable Nylon and Cordura weave exhibiting high stretch, stain resistance and rapid drying in addition to abrasion resistance. There’s a high-rise back, a rear pocket for a D lock, hi-vis pink lining on the inside of the legs and a reflective Rapha logo visible when the trouser leg is rolled up.
Expected price for the jeans is £150 per pair and chamois cream £15 per pot.
