The latter part of this summer saw unstable weather continue due to the influence of typhoons. Please take care of your health as we are in the change of seasons...
When I took some time off last month to visit my parents' home, a large typhoon hit directly, and unfortunately, the island ride I had planned was canceled. Leaving that ride for another time, I went for a ride in the Banshu region, located in the west of Hyogo Prefecture, the day after the typhoon passed.
The place I was taken to by ease, who kindly guided me on the route, was the Kato Toryu-nada rapids, which also appears in the opening of the Sazae-san anime. It is apparently the place in Japan where Ayu fishing is permitted earliest, and I heard there are many anglers there when the season arrives. The unique atmosphere of the rocks and the speed of the flowing water were truly impressive.
Also, although I thought it might finally be time for long sleeves this year because autumn seems to be arriving early, it is still the perfect season for short sleeves; in fact, the breeze hitting my skin while wearing short sleeves felt very refreshing while riding.
Perfect for such a ride was the S1-A Women's Riding Jersey from the New York-based cycle apparel brand SEARCH AND STATE.
This is a model designed with a women-specific pattern based on their highly acclaimed riding jersey, which uses carefully selected, highly breathable, quick-drying, and moisture-wicking fabrics in a simple and beautiful design.
This jersey was a staple this summer. I own it in both black and white, and I change the combination depending on the color of my bib shorts. By the way, for the XS white version specifically, the name tag is navy, so it pairs very well with navy bibs.
It features high-level design that might not be immediately obvious from its simple look: durable Riri front zippers, a design detail to ensure the pull tab doesn't touch your neck when fully zipped, and binding on the inside of the collar to prevent unpleasant chafing from seams. The fabric, which looks solid-colored at a glance, is actually knitted with two colors of thread to create a textured finish, which helps reduce discomfort when you sweat a lot.
Also, the moderate silhouette is a style preferred by many cyclists, suitable for any situation from grueling road rides to fun rides.
And for the upcoming autumn and winter seasons, the S1-J Women's Riding Jacket, which you can wear over jerseys or jackets, is a version of Search and State's flagship cycle jacket—offering excellent performance for the three seasons outside of summer—redesigned with a women-specific pattern.
The Schoeller C-Change waterproof-breathable membrane used in this jacket has the property of changing its breathability in response to the steam released from the body. Because of this, it keeps you warm in winter and allows more trapped heat to escape in situations where your body temperature rises, such as in early spring or autumn, providing performance that is second to none for a cycling jacket.
It is also a highly water-resistant fabric, so it can be used as a rain jacket, but since the seams are not sealed, there is a possibility of some moisture ingress during prolonged use in rainy weather. Even so, it is a reassuring jacket to have if you are caught in a sudden downpour.
The front zipper uses a double zipper from Riri, which has high design appeal and water resistance, allowing for a wide range of use depending on the riding conditions. The same zipper is used for the back pocket provided.
None of their items are flashy or stand out in a loud way, but even without any ostentation, they have something that will definitely captivate the person wearing them. You can ride comfortably wherever you go, and the clothing conforms to your body, allowing you to enjoy your ride. I believe Search and State's apparel is just the best tool for that.
We have a selection of women's items besides Search and State, so please, by all means, visit our store and try them out.