London-based Rapha have just launched their new Spring/Summer 2008 clothing range, and RCUK was lucky to get an exclusive first look at the new items it’s hoped will prove popular this summer.

Rapha have launched a new Stowaway jacket, new Gilet, mitts, special edition jerseys, RaphaCondorRecycling.co.uk team kit, new jersey colour options, a black Lightweight jersey and, for the urban rider, a Fixed shirt, trousers and t-shirts.

Stowaway jacket £170

It’s reassuring to see that Rapha constantly assess every product in their range, ensuring they all meet the strict criteria they so obviously set. The Stowaway jacket is a case in point. The idea was for a lightweight waterproof that could be stashed in a jersey pocket ready for a freak downpour, but it was just too good at keeping the water out – and your sweat in. So, for 2008 Rapha have gone back to the drawing board and changed the material to a lighter weight and more breathable fabric, offering enough wind and water resistance to make it a good companion for days when the weather is anything but decisive.

It’s available in Black, Winter White and Sulphur (one for the safety conscious commuters, opinions?), and comes with reflective details, off-set front zip, shaped hemline and lower front zipped pocket. Available March/April.

Gilet

While I didn’t really think there was anything wrong with the Gilet, Rapha have seen fit to update it for 2008. The main change is to the fabric, a move to the same lightweight and windproof material as the Stowaway jacket. A shaped hemline, off-set front zip, reflective piping on the arms and rear and it will pack down to disappear in a jersey pocket once the temperature rises enough. Colours options are black/white or white/black, price is £95 and it’s available in March. There’s also a very special Gazzetta version (£115), which features a pink print in the style of the Italian sports newspaper on the central panel. Available April.

Club jersey £90

The Club jersey is a staple of the Rapha brand, and perhaps the most popular product since the company launched several years ago. For 2008 you can choose from four new colours: Fudge/Sulphur, Orange/Black, Red/Light Blue and Thyme Green/Orange. The jersey has also been updated with new side panels, reinforced rear pockets and a concealed pocket for your mini-pump. Available April.

Country Jersey £90

Are you patriotic? If so, the Country jersey takes the Club jersey and offers it up in three flavours – Light Blue (for Belgium), Cream (France) and Pink (Italy), so you can proudly display your national identity… Available March.

Passo Gavia Jersey (Limited Edition) £120.

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of Andy Hampsten’s winning ride over the Passo Gavia in the 1988 Giro d’Italia is this stunning pink special edition jersey. Built around the same Sportwool fabric as the Club jerseys, it even has a rib collar and cuffs and proper metal zip. The race number is removable, held in place via safety pins. Available March.

Fixed Trousers £115

Rapha’s Fixed range is inspired by those hard-working, city dwelling cycle messengers. But while we wouldn’t recommend the life of a city messenger (have to work/ride in the rain, battling with buses all day long), you can still tap into some of that essential style with a few items from the Fixed lineup. Latest to join the Shorts and Jerseys are Fixed Trousers. They’re made from lightweight, stretchy micro-twill fabric finished with a coating of 3XDry to keep the rain from seeping through. All the small details have been seen to, such as a spot for an ankle band, off-set internal leg seams and a rear zipped pocket. There’s no padding; instead you wear your favourite bib shorts underneath them for comfort. They’ll be available in May.

Fixed Shirt £80

To accompany the Trousers there is this rather sharp Fixed Shirt. It’s a tad smarter than the current Fixed Jersey, but has all the hallmarks of the Fixed range. So it’s made from fast drying and odour resistant Dri-release fabric, offers a slim fit with a dropped rear hem and boasts and articulated ‘action back’ – providing freedom of movement on the bike. It’s available in either White or Beluga from May onwards.

Fixed T £40

Three new colours – Mineral Grey/Navy, Navy/Sulphur and Sulphur/Black – update the classic. Available in March.

www.rapha.cc