Italian clothing brand Santini, who hand-make everything on-site in Bergamo, near Milan, have a huge summer range available now for style-conscious roadies. Here’s our pick of the highlights…
Biolite
At the top level, Santini have introduced their Biolite range which includes a lightweight jersey (£84.99) that uses Bio Recycled Pro fabric – a polyester made from renewable resources.
It comes in a skinny, racing-snake cut with super-breathable polypropylene inserts on the sides and back, and a full-length zip down the front, so it really is one for the hot days … and we know that they’re just around the corner.
The Biolite bib shorts are expensive at £112.49, but you can think of it as investing in your comfort because the Gel Intech Slice chamois is a winner. It’s well vented and the gel padding, positioned specifically for use with cutout saddles, provides excellent cushioning without much bulk.
Pride
The Pride line comes in a slightly looser cut – although it’s still very much a performance fit – and has Italian tricolore flashes all over the place so you can boost your Euro credentials. The Micron polyester jersey (£59.99) has mesh panels down the sides while mesh braces on the bib shorts (£79.99) and a Coolmax seatpad add more summer-friendliness.
Venom
The Venom jersey (£54.99) is a little looser again so you get a more relaxed fit. It’s still lightweight, though, with mesh sleeves and sides. We’re guessing you’re either going to love the spider’s web design or hate it. If it’s not for you, the Primo (£45.99) is a similar jersey but in plain colours.
Epoca/Era
The Epoca and the Era are a couple of stylish wool/acrylic retro jerseys that we really like the look of. They come in classic cuts and there are no seams in the body to bother you. It’s a shame the price can’t be old school too – they’ll set you back a distinctly 21st century £109.99 a throw.
Womenswear
There’s a whole bunch of women’s clothing in Santini’s line-up, including the soft and stretchy Labyrinth jersey (£64.99) and the Micron polyester Aurora jersey (£54.99). You get similar tech performance and features to the gents’ clothes but with female-specific cuts and short pads. And there’s barely any pink in sight.
If you want your own clothing design for your club or event, Santini offer both custom and semi-custom (template to which you can add logos) options. Go to www.santinisms.it or www.fisheroutdoor.co.uk for details on this and the entire Santini range.
