I really do like the look of this kit – it’s crisp, summery and sporty and the use of logo graphics is subtle and beautifully balanced to give a really classy look

Reviewing it, however, turned out to be a bit of a challenge: the shorts are labelled size S but look minuscule. I’m a size 10 and wear S or M shorts depending upon the brand, but these beauties, crafted from firm-stretch panels, would barely go over my knees.

Sugoi kit falls into three catergories, and RSE is ‘Pro-Fit’ : ‘anatomically form fitted to the body for optimal performance and low wind drag. These garments are ideally suited for cyclists with lean athletic builds’ says the website.

I called a friend (size 6/8) to see if she could get them on. She did – but as she doesn’t carry much muscle mass the leg fit was a little slack.

Sugoi are clearly serious about the athletic fit.

Feeling a bit miffed I was about to return the kit to the TWC office with a ‘reviewers not fit enough’ note when I decided to try them again. This time the shorts stretched a little more and I managed to get them on, ready to ride. So, despite first impressions, that performance-led firm stretch will give a little if you perservere.

Once on, they the shorts are all about helping you to ride fast in comfort with streamlined silicone panels around the legs instead of conventional gripper elastic for a smoother fit, no inner seam and Sugoi’s Formula FXE chamois – designed with proprietary padding technology, carefully placed ventilation and flex for optimal shock absorption. It is very comfortable. The shorts feature quite a high waistband (no slouching!) and the legs stop mid thigh: it’s a fantastic fit – if you’re lean!

With high performance in mind this top combines advanced sports moisture-wicking fabrics and construction for a ‘high-performance aerodynamic’ (ie snug) fit. While I might have had a bit of a kerfuffle with the shorts initially, this size S top didn’t throw any sizing curveballs and fitted like a dream.

Despite being white it – just about– passes the see-through test. I like the full -length zip (ultimately versatile and really nicely styled in pink, white and grey) and three rear pockets and rear zip pocket detail. With performance in mind, the sleeves and waistband feature a clean edge (no hem) for a low profile ergonomic fit.

PROs: Looks great, designed for performance.

CONS: You need an athlete’s body to match!

Available from Sugoi.

Photos by Paul Mitchell.

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