Castelli has unveiled the Gabba R, billed as the most aero jacket it has ever tested and the ‘pinnacle of foul-weather race gear’.
Castelli notes that…. ‘With cutting-edge fabric technology and meticulous design, the Gabba R sets a new standard for aerodynamics, waterproofing, and breathability, revolutionizing the cycling experience for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
‘The Gabba R represents the culmination of years of research, development, and testing to create the ultimate race jacket for cycling in cool and wet weather.’
Building upon the Gabba series, renowned for its performance in challenging conditions, the Gabba R – with ‘R’ standing for ‘race’ – introduces a brand-new fabric technology, exclusive to Castelli by performance fabric specialist ITTTAI. This combines stretch-fit functionality with ‘unparalleled water resistance and breathability’.
Crafted with an electro-spun external membrane, the Gabba R helps to keep rain at bay while maintaining airflow, ensuring comfort and performance in all weather conditions.
Designed for the demands of pro racing, the Gabba R boasts a close-to-body fit and aerodynamics akin to a speedsuit, as well as water protection like a rain cape.
Castelli points to wind tunnel tests demonstrating aerodynamic gains. Through two separate wind tunnel tests, augmented with tests on the road, Castelli added… ‘We’ve seen that in some positions and speeds the Gabba R will actually be faster than Soudal Quick-Step’s aero road suit, Sanremo BTW Speed Suit.’
In a ‘normal’ road position, Castelli claims that the Gabba R tests about 1% faster at speeds from 37 to 50 km/h, while in an extremely aggressive low position, the Gabba R is ‘merely about 1% slower than the Sanremo BTW Speed Suit.’
Comparing new and old Gabbas, the short-sleeve Gabba R tests 2.5% faster than the Gabba RoS 2, saving 2 to 2.5 seconds per kilometre at 40 km/h. The long-sleeve Gabba R surpasses the Perfetto RoS 2 Jacket by 3.5% and the Slicker Pro rain jacket by 4.5%. The tests were conducted at speeds of 40 km/h and 50 km/h, as these jackets were specifically designed for aerodynamics at peak racing speeds.
“We are proud to introduce the Gabba R, a game-changer in foul-weather race apparel, just like its predecessor,” said Steve Smith, Castelli Brand Manager.
“With its unparalleled combination of aerodynamics, waterproofing, and breathability, the Gabba R empowers cyclists to push their limits, no matter what Mother Nature has in store.”
MSRPs:
- Gabba R – €259.95
- Gabba R Jacket – €299.95
