When it comes to race shorts, I’m loyal to Assos. However, when it comes to jerseys, I'm not picky about the brand as long as I like it. I recently went for a ride with my "Paisen" (senior rider), who has stuck to this style for a long time.
With the forecast calling for clear skies after the rain and temperatures climbing to 25 degrees, we both decided to wear short-sleeve jerseys. It was the perfect opportunity to try out some new jerseys from Search And State.
While you could say their designs are so simple that they are immune to trends, they are meticulous about the materials they use and incorporate features that allow you to focus comfortably on your ride. Based in Manhattan's historic garment district—an area that has long thrived as a textile hub—they finish their production as close to home as possible, working with factories that possess trusted craftsmanship.
If I had to make a comparison, they are one of the few cycling apparel brands that create products you’ll want to use for a long, long time, just like Chris King components. While we were the ones who recommended the brand to him, it’s a fact that Paisen himself has become a fan of Search And State. So, we both slipped into two of their newly announced limited-release jerseys and headed out for a ride.
Among the newly released items, the one that really caught my eye was the The Search Ranger. Last season, they released a long-sleeve merino wool jersey, and following that, they created this short-sleeve jersey for spring and summer using gauge merino wool.
By blending wool with Lyocell—a material that is both soft and durable—they maintained the feel of wool while achieving excellent moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties. This ambitious piece is the result of long-term development, with its durability tested in the harsh conditions of a cross-Cuba touring trip. Featuring their signature military aesthetic and an extra back pocket with a riri zipper, it can handle even ultra-long rides.
Choosing a slightly looser size and pairing it with shorts would also be a great look for a bike-packing style.
I look forward to their limited-color jerseys every year. This spring/summer, they have taken the S2-R Performance Jersey as a base and introduced it using a fabric with even better stretch than previous limited releases.
The four-way stretch material fits the body snugly while allowing for unrestricted movement. The jersey, printed with palm trees that evoke eternal summer, uses a different textured synthetic fiber fabric than before, and thanks to the highly breathable and lightweight material, I expect it will get plenty of use right through the mid-summer heat.
And although it is still a bit early in the season, a reassuring new item for the autumn has also been added to the lineup.
A thin, non-brushed long-sleeve jersey—something you don't often find—this piece uses an entirely new fabric specifically produced for this jersey, offering a fit that molds perfectly to the body and a soft feel that makes wearing it feel truly luxurious. It’s a useful item year-round, not just for early spring or autumn, but also for those who prefer not to expose their skin during the summer.
Likely an item many have been waiting for (I can think of a few faces right now), these are Search And State’s first brushed-lining bib knickers. Just like their classic S2-R Bibs, they use high-quality fabric packed with the brand's attention to detail, and have been carefully sewn with attention to panel shapes, seams, and friction points to ensure no issues while pedaling.
None of these items stand out for being flashy, but even without the glitter, they possess something that inevitably captivates those who wear them. That "something" is different for everyone, but just like a Chris King hub that breaks in to spin smoothly and without play, they become comfortable and conform to your body, allowing you to enjoy your ride wherever you go. I believe that Search And State apparel is just that kind of premier tool.
First of all, please do come to the store and try them on.
