No ordinary bike racer, Rapha notes that Colin Strickland… ‘turned down the WorldTour to focus full-time on the greatest, grippiest US gravel grinders.’
For a blend of speed and self-sufficiency, Strickland competes in a Rapha kit that he helped to create. Released to the general public by Rapha this week, the Strata collection is inspired by Strickland’s home state of Texas and includes a gravel-specific version of Rapha’s elite-level race bib shorts.
Men’s & Women’s Strata Pro Team Aero Jersey RRP £145 / €175 / US$195
The Strata Pro Team Aero Jersey features a weathered design, influenced by the geological patterns in rock formations near Colin Strickland’s hometown of Austin, Texas.
‘Everything we’ve learned about aerodynamic apparel appears in this jersey. Smooth fabrics on the front move through the air with ease, and textured fabric on the back aids aerodynamics. To ensure minimal drag and provide a figure-hugging fit, the back panel’s sleek material has a directional nap – smooth in one direction, rough in the other.
‘The lightweight, stretchy material has bonded tape inside to support your pockets when full and inside a mesh fabric aids breathability for your lower back. An extended placket on the front zip protects your bib shorts when you’re tucked tight and the robust zip makes it easier to open with one hand. Ride at speed safe in the knowledge your jersey won’t be holding you back.’
Men’s & Women’s Strata Long Sleeve Technical T-Shirt RRP £65 / €75 / US$90
The limited version of Rapha’s Technical T-Shirt was also designed in collaboration with gravel racer Colin Strickland. Using the same light micro-mesh fabric as the original Flyweight Jersey, this long-sleeved t-shirt is a loose-fitting top for exploring city streets or mountain peaks.
As well as wicking sweat away from the skin, a gradient knit structure also disperses the moisture over a greater area, creating a fast-drying shirt. The textured fabric combined with a loose fit helps the t- shirt stand off a rider’s skin for improved heat convection and airflow, allowing the rider to stay cool and protected in hot conditions. The Technical T-Shirt can be paired with Cargo Bib Shorts for mixed-terrain riding or worn as an alternative to cotton t-shirts on warmer days.
Strata Pro Team Training Cargo Bib Shorts RRP £140 / €165 / US$190
Available in men’s and women’s versions, the Strata Pro Team Training Cargo Bib Shorts are lightweight and breathable.
These bib shorts use the same construction as Rapha’s WorldTour race-winning Pro Team bibs, with the addition of two mesh side pockets to carry any ride essentials and tools. The lightweight mesh upper wicks sweat, keeping the rider cool when working hard, and the main fabric offers support and compression through tough efforts.
Also included in the new gravel-focused range are Strata Pro Team Socks (RRP £15 / €17.50 / US$20) and a Strata Cap (RRP £15 / €17.50 / US$20).
