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@dooks
Ha.
Oh god I've become a total Rapha whore of late. All facilitated by a certain friendly forumenger’s generosity with his sample sale finds and occasional mild manipulation of discount. It's actually got a bit ridiculous. Here's some reviews having lived with the stuff for a while:
I have a Softshell which I like very much for cold but dry winter rides. Breathable, very fitted (I have a 38" chest and can just about get away with an L. XL might actually be a better fit to be honest . Although the arms are bizarrely long). It’s got loads of pockets and ventilation including big pit zips for when it warms up a bit. I even wear it for short winter runs it's so comfortable and breathable. Being spenny and a very light grey it's a no-no for the commute. Oh, don't buy if you want waterproof. It's not. A short shower maybe, one hefty downpour and you're soaked.
For the commute and general pottering I have a City Rain Jacket. I notice these become near ubiquitous amongst a certain strata of Brompton riders. I love it. Super lightweight, super waterproof, (first time I wore it in the rain was amazed at the “duck’s back effect” of water beading off it) and I think it looks great. L is a perfect fit. Have barely been without it on or off the bike since getting it back in September-ish? One item I would definitely buy again at full price. It’s rad. Just don't wear it with the bright pink bumflap out.
Got lots of other bits like bib shorts (great) jerseys (am particularly fond of the super lightweight Columbian Escarabajo one for summer) and a winter collar (is what it is). Just got the winter cap and winter gloves for Christmas too. This was the point it which I was actually specifically requesting no more Rapha from the wife as it’s getting borderline ridiculous. The gloves and cap are great too though. My only tiny gripe with the cap I that I wish that branding was more subtle. I could do without that big logo on the peak, but that my have more to do with my “embarrassment of Rapha” issues than the cap itself. I’m actually looking forward to it getting properly cold though so I can rock my new bits. It’s far too warm at the moment.
Here endeth the review. In summary: Mostly really nice. Kinda pricey.