I’m starting to get a bit paranoid that my work colleagues have noticed that I’ve worn these leggings straight for an entire week. No, I’m not the skank in the office who hasn’t done their washing, but these are just too good to take off.
Firstly, it’s such a relief to find a pair of stylish cycling leggings with a gusset and offset seams. They’re robust enough to wear on the bike without the fear of them wearing around the crotch and they actually enable you to move freely and comfortably.
Fashionable Reflective Leggings for on the Bike
My second point of praise is the fact that the Rapha Leggings are high waisted, fantastic from a styling and practical point. I know a lot of people don’t like it when female cyclists often comment on feeling more slender in their cycling clothes, but these really do make me feel good, as they tuck everything in and support the shape of my body. They’ve also got an elasticated waistband which really makes all the difference in a cycling legging, they do not even move an inch when I’m riding.
I tested a size medium and they honestly fit like a glove. The fabric is very stretchy, so they hug nicely to your body and don’t restrict you. There’s also a nifty zipped pocket on the waistband of the legging, large enough for your card and some cash.
I love the look of the product and think that Rapha have absolutely nailed the styling here and throughout their entire urban city range for women. The feeling of being able to jump on the bike in the morning and head to a bar at the end of the day in the same leggings is just great. The Rapha Leggings are available in both grey and black, with an edgy road print pattern on the legging itself, which adds a really nice touch to them.
Chamois wise, I don’t think that the Rapha Leggings need one. To me, they are more of a legging you would wear for a quick ride into the city to meet a friend. And with Urbanist Chamois Pants on the female cycle scene, there’s no need for a chamois here.
However for the price they are (£90), I feel there needs to be a few more practical features for cyclists, otherwise you’re almost just paying for a great looking and feeling pair of leggings that happen to also be good to cycle in.
Verdict: It’s great that Rapha have stepped up and brought us ladies a lovely new addition to our cycling wardrobe.
Pros– Super comfortable fit.
– Very stylish.
– Both on and off the bike use.
Cons– Not many features for cyclists that make them worth the price tag.
Price: £90.00, available from Rapha.
Styling note: Styled with Rapha’s Women’s Long Sleeve Merino and Printed Silk Scarf.
