Featuring a limited edition pattern and colour, the Triweave Graphic jersey and bib shorts from Endura both represent great value for money, giving great performance and a dash of style.
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Endura is a sponsor of the Cervelo Bigla women's pro team, and the feedback and development process that comes with making kit for some of the world's best female riders benefits all riders as the tech trickles down to garments like these.
Both the jersey and shorts feature the striking Triweave Graphics design. The red pink and purple pattern on the black background are both striking and flattering, particularly the black side panels.
I tried both jersey and shorts in a size medium, and for reference I'm usually a UK12/14 or US10/12, with a very curvy frame. In both I found the overall fit great, particularly the jersey. However, there is one element of the shorts that just doesn't work for me... but more on that later!
Endura Triweave Graphics shortsleeve jersey
The Triweave Graphics jersey is constructed to the same quality level and using the same fabric and tech as the kit worn by the Cervelo Bigla team, and it shows.
For £69.99 I was impressed with the cut, performance and feel of this garment, particularly as someone who tends to get hot when riding.
The fabric sits comfortably close to the body, supportive but not restrictive, and wicks well. The Lycra sleeves sit smoothly against the skin, and I appreciated the length as I'm sun sensitive. That said, shorter riders may find the sleeves a touch too long; I'm 5'8/1m74, and they reached to just above my elbows.
The silicone grippers kept the sleeves comfortably in place without either cutting in to my arm or feeling loose. Grippers are also used at the jersey hem to prevent it riding up when in the saddle.
Despite several washes (as per manufacturer's instructions) the jersey is looking and feeling fresh in terms of fit, colour and aroma.
Pockets are well constructed, with enough room in the three rear pockets to fit all the usual tools, snacks and essentials. Despite heavily loading them for one particular ride, they stayed in place without dragging the jersey down or around.
The additional side pocket is a nice touch. Constructed from mesh, it blends into the side pocket and is handy for stowing gels or a race radio.
Overall, this is a great jersey for hot-weather riding, giving both sun protection due to the longer sleeves and a cooling effect due to the exceptional wicking properties of the jersey fabric. The cut is comfortable and the fit excellent, especially considering the curvy nature of my body.
The jersey is available in sizes XS, S, M and L and retails for £69.99 / $94.99 / AU$TBC.
Endura Triweave Graphics bibshorts
Matching the jersey is the Triweave Graphics bibshorts, which are plain black with Lycra leg hems in a matching pattern.
The fabric of the shorts is constructed from a very firm fabric which is both supportive but also holds it's shape and gives a smooth silhouette. This fabric is cut high on the hips to provide support and coverage over the stomach and lower back, with a lighterweight and more breathable stretch mesh forming the upper and bib straps.
Endura have opted for straps that sit either side of the bosom, with a back that keeps the straps in place without pulling or chaffing on the shoulders.
The chamois pad is Endura's Women's 600-series pad, which has antimicrobial features. A medium thickness pad, I found it comfortable over rides long and short, though of course this is to some degree a matter of personal preference.
The wide Lycra band on the legs has silicone gripper strips which provide a secure fit without cutting into the legs or giving the dreaded sausage legs.
Personally, I found the leg length a little short, as they sat around mid-thigh on me, and I would prefer something a little closer to my knees. At 5'8/1m74 I'm above average and do have long legs, so this may not be an issue for the majority of women.
Now, on to the element I hinted at before that doesn't work for me. Endura has an innovative solution to the 'comfort break' issue for women. Having to essentially strip off when you need to pee is a total pain, and involves either public partial-nudity or trying to find somewhere to hang your jersey in the toilets.
Endura has opted for a zip that curves over and around your rear end, essentially opening a flap at the back which gives you a big enough opening to pull your chamois out of the way and relieve yourself.
When you're done, you just have to zip yourself back up. No need to take off your jersey or unstrap yourself out of your bibs.
This feature has been incorporated into a number of Endura bib shorts for several years, and I know many women for whom this works really well. While I like the idea, unfortunately it doesn't really work for me. My rear end is, shall we say, ample and prominent, and obviously that zip doesn't stretch, so instead I find it digs into my derriere.
While riding, it isn't too noticeable over shorter distances and the benefits of easy weeing outweigh the negatives. However, over longer distances, or time periods, the stiffer zip becomes noticeable, so unfortunately these aren't the bib shorts for me.
However, if you're smaller in the rear end department, they are worth giving a go as they are otherwise excellent. Curvy women — try them on first if you can.
The bib shorts are available in sizes XS, S, M and L and retail for £89.99 / $114.99 / AU$TBC.
You can finish the whole ensemble off with some matching socks, because matching kit definitely makes you go faster.
