The first climb of the Col du Tourmalet in the Tour de France took place in 1910 and the race has since crossed the 2,115m pass 75 times. The 2010 race paid tribute to the climb, with ascent on successive stages and this jersey from Telegraph Road, one of three designs in the second series currently available, celebrates that centenary.
For those not so familiar, Telegraph Road aim to fill the gap between ‘the team’ and ‘the technical’. Their Le Tour jersey impressed when reviewed in June and, if you are not looking to deck yourself out like your Tour de France hero, then sit up and take note. The limited edition jerseys do a great job in reflecting the rich heritage of road racing without looking out of place while on a quick pub of café stop.
The Le Tourmalet Jersey, which retails at £45, is made from a sweat-wicking fabric that stretches to provide a comfortable fit. The cut is slim, and longer at the back to reflect your riding position. All of the seams are cover stitched to allow maximum give and there is also a silicone strip on the inside rear hem to grip the jersey and keep it in place.
Taking into consideration the exceptional demands of the climb, the jersey has extra deep pockets for your stash of energy bars and gels. There is also a small waterproof zip pocket for valuables and even a waterproof compass on the zip.
Out on the road, the jersey’s promised performance lived up to expectations a recent weekend ride and the clean design looks the part. Telegraph Road jerseys are available to purchase through their website or from a selection of nationwide stockists listed here.
