Frivolous Cycling Appareil?

I was very amused the other day to see the article about the new Assos glasses (/content/news/47673-assos-launch-their-first-cycling-glasses-video), whose cost we assume will run into hundreds.

It made me think it might be …..er……”enlightening” for other people to share their experiences of when they’ve gone seemingly OTT in terms of expensive bikewear they’ve gone out and bought.

I myself am a fan of Assos, albeit more on a “peripheral” scale (I wish I could afford for everything I own to be by them). I generally collect a couple of items every year, so have a collection of their socks, mitts, gloves and even an excellent pair of bibtights from previous years. This year I went completely mad and bought both a winter jacket and a waterproof jacket, albeit in out-of-season sales. I have yet to buy any summer stuff (nor shades, I hasten to add) from them…I wish.

In my own defence I not only ride for pleasure but also to commute. So as far as the commuting goes there is a definite equation which says “every week I ride the bike saves me £x on the tube” (around £100/month, so quite considerable over time). So from that perspective I am prepared to set aside some money in order to buy clothing which keeps me on the bike, especially during the winter. That I can also use these clothes for my weekend rides is a bonus.

Anyone else prepared to admit their excesses?