Story by Chris Hovenden | cyclingweekly.co.uk
Custom kit goes much further than just teams and clubs nowadays.
When it comes to making cycling kit, the Italian company has an impressive pedigree. Castelli started manufacturing clothing in 1876, in the 1940s it created custom jerseys for Gino Bartali and Fausto Coppi, and it claims to have been the first to use the current sublimation printing process back in 1983.
If you choose Castelli’s Pro Issue range you’ll get the same kit as supplied to the WorldTour Cannondale-Drapac Pro Cycling Team. However, if you are looking for a more forgiving fit there’s the Team issue range that is aimed at club riders.
The on test Pro Issue custom kit looks top drawer and feels high quality to the touch. Costing £74.99 (plus VAT and based on an order of 10) the Free Aero Race Bibshorts aren’t cheap, but even at that hefty price they are hard to fault. The chamois gives you no reason to complain whether sat up on the back of the saddle or riding on the rivet in a more forward, aggressive position. The side panels are dimpled for improved aerodynamics; and the netted gripper does a great job of keeping them in place.
“For outright race kit we loved Castelli’s which is why it’s best on test. It looked good and felt even better.”
The top is extremely lightweight and breathable, great for warmer days but not ideal for the UK’s inclement weather. The fit is snug, but not restrictive, and the jersey is said to have been wind tunnel tested to ensure you slip through the air. Despite the thin material the rear pockets didn’t sag and there are even reflective decals for when you are riding on warm summer evenings. The only criticism is that due to the netted material the red is not as vivid as some others on test. The Castelli kit is truly pro level and on balmy summer days this will be my go-to kit. The question is whether more robust and affordable clothing suits your needs better.
Minimum order per garment: 10 pieces
Delivery from design confirmation: Eight weeks
Deposit: 50 %
Discount thresholds, if any: Per garment style order of 30/61/121 pieces
Kit supplied: Aero Race 4.1 Jersey; Free Aero Race Bibshorts
Sizes: XXS – 3XL
Cost: Jersey £57.99 / €69,90 (excl. VAT and based on 10 pcs); Bibshort £74.99 / €109,90 (excl. VAT and based on 10 pcs)
More details: www.castelli-cycling.com/custom
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