Rapha launch 2015 Pro Team clothing range

Rapha has today released a new Pro Team range for Spring/Summer that breaks new ground for the brand by using what it calls a ‘Data Print’ pattern. It’s a pattern that’s certain to divide opinion. There are more classic-looking, typically Rapha designs in the range too.

What’s that Data Print pattern all about?

“A unique collaboration that creates art from the science of modern road racing, London-based design studio Accept & Proceed used the ride data from an individual racer’s entire grand tour to make a very special graphic," say Rapha. "Charting the rider’s performance levels for each stage, the resulting print is made up of precisely scaled chevrons mapping the rider’s distance, elevation gain and Training Score Stress (TSS) levels.”

It’s obvious when you think about it. We're embarrassed for asking.

The Pro Team range comprises jerseys, bib shorts, a base layer, cap and socks, plus an accessories line. As the name suggests, the clothing is aimed at performance-type riders; racers and anyone else of that go-faster persuasion.

The Pro Team Jersey (£120) is available in both white on black and black on white Data Print designs. It also comes in green and coral (pinky orange) versions.

It’s made from a lightweight synthetic fabric with mesh side and rear panels, and it comes with a low cut collar.

The Pro Team Bib Shorts (£190) are made from a Lycra-based fabric and they use a Cytech seatpad. Like the jersey, the shorts are treated with Coldblack, a dye that’s designed to reflect the sun’s rays to keep you cool.

There are shorts with white, green and coral highlights to match the jerseys.

The Data Print sleeveless base layer is £45. It’ll be available in a short sleeve version too.

Socks (£15 or £20, depending on length), caps (£30) and arm screens (£35) are available in the Data Print pattern too. There’s also an essentials case (£45) for an inner tube, tyre levers and so on, and bidons (£12).

For more info go to Rapha’s website.