Rivelo kit is designed, developed and tested by a team of cyclists in the UK. Going on the names of the gear, I’m guessing they’re fans of the Surrey and Sussex hills – so we’ve already got one thing in common.
The kit has a simple, classic style that doesn’t scream ‘look at me’ but certainly seems to whisper ‘quality’ from every seam.
The women’s Ditchling jersey retails at £90, and is the most expensive of the two options available.
The UPF 50+ fabric is described as “super soft” and that really holds true. At first touch, it doesn’t feel instantly breathable, but having worn this kit for a few rides, including my local Bike Shop Hill Reps session in the 12pm summer sun, I can attest to it keeping me cool and as sweat free as possible.
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The fabric is pleasantly clingy, without being race-fit tight – and this is probably down to the high stretch Xtra Life and Sport Energy Lycra. Two-way stretch mesh panels also add to the breathability, and provide the perfect fit whilst riding.
There are four large rear pockets, with a water resistant zipped space for your essentials. The dropped hem has a silicone gripper, and the full zip meets at a low profile collar which creates a stylish and comfortable silhouette.
This one is available in navy blue, or plain black – I expect the latter would create a nicer outfit with the shorts.
Nipping down the price ladder to £60 is the Rosedale Jersey. Again, there is a navy blue, white and red option, and a plainer all black and white colour scheme.
The Rosedale feels lighter to the touch – the fabric is much closer to a mesh feel, though it’s not as soft and stretchy as the Ditchling.
The level of breathability and wicking is high, and you get the same practical four pockets and zipped, water resistant pocket.
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Like the Ditchling, the dropped hem has a silicone gripper, and it’s got the same, long fit – which is great if you’re used to casual clothing which finishes at the hips, and feel uncomfortable in traditional waist-length jerseys.
I tested a ‘Medium’ in both jerseys and I’d imagine that a ‘Small’ might be a better fit, as I had a few extra wrinkles. However, I didn’t find the extra room meant flapping fabric, or that the pockets sagged – so if you prefer a relaxed fit the Medium would be fine for an 8/10 frame.
The Ranmore shorts are waist shorts. Generally, I’m not a fan. However, these went a long way to converting me.
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The waist dips at the front, and uses a soft, doubled over fabric – which reduces any chance of cutting in or unsightly “muffin hip”. The back is a stronger elasticated affair.
I’ve seen waist shorts that use the soft, doubled over fabric the whole way round – the result is that they don’t hug the waist, and either have excess space or fall down. I’ve also seen strong, elasticated waistbands all the way round – the result being ugly marks that you can see through any tight fit jersey. Chapeau to Rivelo – I think they’ve got it spot on.
They’ve also added a rear zip – which is great for keys and a debit card – the little items that are best not floating around in the back of your jersey. This would also be handy if you don’t wear a traditional cycling jersey.
The female specific chamois comes from high end brand, Cytech – it’s got an anti-bacterial treatment, plus quick drying and cooling fabric. I was perfectly comfortable on both short and long rides.
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The material boasts 50+ UPF protection, and a powerful Invista Lycra is used for 360 degree stretch and support. Again, I wore these shorts during a tough, lunch time hill rep session, and I felt as cool as was possible during a the 30 degree heatwave sun.
The legs have 5cm wide striped silicone Rivelo grippers. They’re so stylish I sort of wish they weren’t hidden on the inside of the fabric and they really do the job in not creating “muffin leg.”
My only criticism is that I did have the misfortune of crashing in these shorts. I wasn’t wearing a base layer – so when my jersey flew up, I ended up with a nice slice of road rash on my hip (to match the same on my elbow and knee).
If I’d been wearing bibs – I’d have had an extra layer of protection. This said, that would also be the case if I’d worn a base layer and I don’t tend to pick my kit based on the way it will react to a crash. It’s also worth noting it didn’t rip and was fine after a wash!
Rivelo set out to create clean, uncomplicated British design that performs when you need it to. It’s got the bells and whistles you need, without any unnecessary extra ‘gumpf.’ I really think they’ve done the job.
Ditchling Women’s Jersey: £90 (Medium)
Rosesale Women’s Jersey: £60 (Medium)
Ranmore Women’s Shorts: £95 (Medium)
