Thursday, July 22, 2010

Wool Bike Jersey

Wool Retro Cycling Jerseys and shorts wasn’t into cycling yet when all there was to wear.I think that the wool bike clothing that was around back then is the kind of thing that can get the “rose-colored glasses” treatment and seem better than it was after many years have passed. Regardless, I know I’ve wanted one for a while, so when Alex from Woolistic called me earlier this year about exhibiting at Interbike, I saw an opportunity.

That’s an illustration of the jersey – “Trainer”, actually, since it is long sleeved – above. I think it looks awesome. We went for a real vintage logo with the retro-script “Interbike”. Inspiration came from some old Merckx-era Molteni and Faema jerseys that are just classic and evoke romantic images of an earlier time. Sort of the same effect as an old Joe DiMaggio flannel Yankees shirt. They’re just cool. And now they’re comfortable, too, right Alex?. We chose long sleeve since that way they can be worn off the bike in the shop or around town. Feel free to ride in it, too.

At Interbike we’ve always had a strong relationship with the Bike Belong Coalition, so Alex and I started talking about doing a commemorative 25th Anniversary Interbike jersey that would benefit the BBC. The jerseys that he sent us as samples are gorgeous and super soft to the touch since they’re made of the latest Merino wool fabrics. You can even machine wash them. Nothing like what I remember my old wool sweaters were like growing up in New England.

The Trainers will be a part of our silent auction at the show to benefit the BBC and League of American Bicyclists. Since the retail price of these would be over $200 if they were made for sale, we only have 25 available in the auction. We’ve already had inquiries about reserving them, so make sure you get your bids in soon!

Make sure you check out the advocacy auction display case in the lobby that features some great stuff like the trainer, 2 custom Fender Stratocaster guitars, celebrity-signed Interbike jersey (another great, but contemporary, design made by Hincapie Sports) and many other unique items. The trainers will also be on display in the BBC booth and in the registration lobby.

Thanks to Ray Kang, Interbike’s art director for a great job desigining the shirt and Alex at Woolistic for helping make this happen. Make sure you check out the other great wool bike wear in the Woolistic booth at the show.

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