Rapha, nice but a bit pricey?

What are peoples thoughts on head to toe Rapha?

I know a few people on here must do it..

I popped in the shop on Brewer Street on saturday with the girlfriend, to check out the new stuff. A group of about 5 were sat supping coffee and eating cake dressed completely in Rapha.

I do it all the time. The whole poseur/pretentiousness discussion aside there are good reasons for it.

I wear all rapha when i'm training solo. I've done tons of research and for me all the separate key pieces jersey/baselayer/bibs/gilet are the most agreeable and best looking alternatives out there. Not because I think the rapha design ethos is head and shoulders above the rest but much more that the alternatives are so hideous.

If I ride with friends or the team I wear the team kit of course. Same goes for racing. But I can see why people are a bit put off by someone wearing the whole rapha uniform but I much prefer that to some sportive nodder in a pro team replica.

Its the symbiosis of the golden triangle of instagram / rapha / strava. You can hate on it all you want but in part and together they have done a great job of opening up cycling to new crowds.

Edit: Oh and I wear the winter baselayers around the house because they have become my favourite tshirts as well. Amazing fit and comfort