Iain Treloar reviews a classy and high-performing road kit from a local crew.
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Melbourne sportswear brand Jaggad has been through a few evolutions over the years, but they’re now really hitting their stride with a clean aesthetic and a premium product.
The driving force behind the brand’s new direction is Melbourne cycling icon Malachi Moxon (ex-Northside Wheelers), who’s taken the reins of product development. We tested the brand’s Milk Bar jersey and bib-knicks to see if they rode as well as they looked.
The jersey, made in Australia from a 30% Woolmark merino blend, is a snug race-fit in a white/black Breton stripe design. The long sleeve length is right on trend, stretching to fit but providing reassuringly mild compression across the bicep. Owing to its fabric, the jersey lacks the stretch of more common synthetic equivalents. I found it firm but not claustrophobic, and comfortable over more than 200 km. However, the fabric did mean that the pockets were a tight fit for food, spares and all the rest of it for these really long rides.
The bib knicks followed the lead of the jersey, with a snug, supportive fit. The leg bands, firm and with two grippy silicone rings, don’t budge over a long day in the saddle, although it does take slightly longer to get the knicks on and lined up correctly. The chamois is a multi-thickness model of remarkable comfort, comparing favourably to many other equivalently-priced brands that we’ve tested. Note, however, that the chamois in the men’s knicks is relatively narrow. I ride a wider than average 155mm road saddle and my sitbones were towards the edge of the thickest section, although this is unlikely to be an issue for the vast majority of riders—and besides, I was only aware of any discomfort after six hours or so, which is impressive. I own a pair of Jaggad’s previous bib-knicks, and this new version is a vast improvement in every possible way.
With the Milk Bar ensemble, Jaggad announce themselves to the road market as a competitive local alternative to premium international brands. The fit, although racey, is carefully considered, extremely comfortable and well-finished, and the styling is subtle but of great appeal.
Jersey $189.95, bibs $209.95
More info and to buy: jaggad.com
84%
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Function | 35/40 |
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Quality | 35/40 |
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Price | 5/10 |
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Appearance | 9/10 |
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