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This week, we’re bringing you a round-up of cycling clothing and footwear from our review product pile. We have some of the priciest shoes we’ve ever reviewed from Specialized, Rapha’s new Pro Team waterproof jacket, a more budget-friendly Boardman jersey, and some trail shoes from Crankbrothers. Check out the previews here, with full reviews coming soon.
Rapha Pro Team Gore-Tex Lightweight Rain Jacket (£295)
With rain finally forecast later this week, it’s the perfect time to put Rapha’s Pro Team Gore-Tex Lightweight Rain Jacket to the test.
Rapha describes it as having “impossibly light, hard-wearing and ultra-packable waterproof protection,” and on our scales, it weighs in at just 122g (size S). The jacket uses the latest Gore-Tex fabric with an ePE membrane, designed to keep you dry while avoiding PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated substances), and is built for riding in temperatures between 1°C and 15°C.
We’re testing both the men’s and women’s versions of the jacket, so check back in a couple of weeks to see how they perform.
Specialized S-Works Ares 2 Road Shoes (£479)
The S-Works Ares 2 is Specialized’s flagship cycling shoe, worn by top pros like Primož Roglič and Demi Vollering, and described by the brand as “the ultimate shoe for racers.”
Specialized says the Ares 2 puts a strong emphasis on comfort and ergonomics, aiming to maximise power transfer while relieving pressure on key areas of the foot. The result? A claimed 7-watt increase in power output and a 44% reduction in forefoot pressure.
Priced at £479, Specialized has significantly increased the retail price of the Ares 2 -over £100 more than the original Ares at launch, making them the second most expensive shoes we’ve tested on road.cc, behind Mavic’s Comete Utimate shoes.
Boardman Mens 9 Series Short Sleeve Jersey (£50)
From one of the priciest products in its category to something far more budget-friendly, next up is the Boardman Men’s 9 Series Short Sleeve Jersey.
It offers features typically found on higher-end jerseys, including a performance-focused fit and laser-cut sleeves, while Boardman promises all-day comfort hasn’t been compromised.
There’s three pockets at the rear and it’s available in four sizes from S to XL.
Assos R Socks S9 – twin pack (£31)
Because you can never have too many socks. Sold exclusively as a twin pack in either black or white, the Assos R Socks S9 are designed for high-intensity riding and everyday use alike.
The breathable fabric is said to wick away moisture efficiently and promote airflow, making them well-suited for warmer conditions.
Assos also promises a lightly compressive fit to keep them snug without bunching or slipping. Check back in a couple of weeks to see how I got on with them.
Crankbrothers Stamp Trail Lace Flat Shoes (£149.99)
The Crankbrothers Stamp Trail Lace shoes come with a lace-up closure system and a lace pocket and a TPU-reinforced toebox for added durability. The sole also has a new tread pattern designed to improve traction both on and off the bike.
Available in three colourways, black/gum (pictured above), navy/gum, and swan/purple, the shoes come in a wide range of sizes from UK 2 to 14, with half sizes available from 4 to 11.
Buy for £149.99 from Crankbrothers
For all the latest full test reports on road.cc, head over to our reviews section. For more advice before splashing the cash you can check out our buyer’s guides, and head over to road.cc Recommends to find all our top-rated products in one place.
1 thought on “An “impossibly light” Gore-Tex rain jacket and big ticket footwear: Five Cool Things from Rapha, Specialized, Assos, Boardman and Crankbrothers”
I assume a “twin-pack” of
I assume a “twin-pack” of socks for £31 means 2 pairs? But knowing Assos prices, I can’t be sure.