Rapha recently expanded its dedicated bikepacking range with new additions to their Rapha Explore collection, which included two brand-new insulating base layers and an update to the Explore Down Jacket. Exciting new products from the luxury cycling brand, elsewhere on the Rapha front the news wasn't as good as the company posted a pre-tax loss of £12 million which represents a continued downward spiral with losses occurring for the sixth year in a row. So is Rapha in trouble? With the continued doom and gloom surrounding the cycling industry and even the likes of Wiggle/Chain Reaction recently going in administration, we sincerely hope not.
However, putting that to one side, Rapha continues to release new products and has now launched their all new Trail Gore-Tex Pants that they say is an ultimate technical outer layer for mountain biking featuring premium performance and protection for the filthiest of winter weather
Packing a hefty price tag of $325 / £250 / €285, the Trail Gore-Tex Pants have to perform mud and wet defeating miracles to justify that steep outlay. Considering in comparison you can get the very similar Altura Esker Trail Trousers currently for £52.49, although it's worth noting they aren't Gore-Tex and this is a deal price (for more of them, see our Black Friday mountain bike deals article). They do include many of the same features as the new Rapha pants. So it would be super interesting to do a versus comparison on these two vastly different priced items. Meanwhile, read on below for the details on the new Rapha's new MTB pants...
Rapha has developed the new Trail Pants in collaboration with their pro mountain bike athletes – Ella Conolly and Luke Cryer – and say they are a high-performance waterproof built to conquer wet, muddy, and wintery conditions, that will, according to Rapha, guarantee riders stay comfortable and protected on every ride with exceptional performance. Constructed the proven capabilities of Gore-Tex fabric, and features a DWR (durable water-repellent) finish for added moisture protection. Fully taped seams also provide a claimed outstanding water and mud resistance.
Designed to be worn with the best knee pads, these pants offer an ergonomic fit and construction that should deliver unrestricted freedom of movement. There are also reinforced knees to provide added durability, and a cam lock fastening waistband for a secure fit. For full weatherproof protection, they can be paired with Rapha’s Trail Gore-Tex Infinium Jacket or your best mountain bike jacket of choice. The pants can be layered with the Trail Liner or Trail Cargo Bib Liner for consistent comfort on any ride.
Pricing and availability
The Rapha Trail Gore Tex Pants are available now from Rapha.cc and Rapha Clubhouses around the globe. In a choice of Black or Grey colors and priced at an eye watering $325 / £250 / €285.
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