You might see me in my jersey here and there in limited circles.
Anyone who has seen me like that might think the following:
"That guy is wearing this jersey again."
Yes, it's true—on hot days, I naturally find myself slipping into this Rapha "Lightweight Jersey."
It's a merino wool blend, but it's thinner than the standard fabric, making it perfect for Japan's humid, sweltering climate.
It feels soft and comfortable against the skin, so there's less stress when I work up a sweat.
Its features aren't limited to just the fabric; the back pocket is special too. It's not just your typical three-pocket setup... at first glance it looks like two, but there's a vertical zipper down the center.
Opening this reveals a large pocket that expands to the left and right.
You can store things like a wind jacket very efficiently.
Also, the small pocket on the right side is very convenient for storing small items like keys. (I often just toss my loose change in there, too. Haha.)
This "Lightweight Jersey" served me well last summer, but for this season, they’ve released the "Super Lightweight Jersey" for those seeking even more comfort.
Rapha
Super Lightweight Jersey ¥15,000
Color : Light Blue , Red , White
Instead of Rapha’s standard merino wool, this one is 100% polyester.
The main fabric has high quick-drying properties and is treated to be odor-resistant, keeping sweat smells at bay.
The neck and cuffs have a smooth texture to prevent that sticky feeling from sweat.
And that becomes a design accent, too.
The side panels use a mesh structure to further enhance comfort.
And there’s been some ingenuity applied to the back pocket as well.
The center section is built with enough strength to hold a third bottle, which might be necessary on those brutally hot midsummer days.
But what really catches the eye is the coloring; every option is just plain "cool!"
Personally, I was drawn to the "Red x Cream" colorway, and I really wanted to try out just how much comfort the "Super" could offer... but then...
...an item that stirred my heart even more arrived.
Rapha
Circle of Death Jersey ¥20,000
This year's Tour de France (it's almost here!) features the 16th stage, where many riders will surely suffer on the four Pyrenean passes: the Aubisque, the Aspin, the Peyresourde, and the Tourmalet.
This is a special jersey celebrating that "Circle of Death," the lethal route connecting these four passes.
The design motif is the "bearded vulture," which soars effortlessly over the Pyrenees, the same mountains where riders struggle on the climb.
The pattern on the back of the collar and the cuffs is inspired by the bearded vulture’s feathers.
If you look closely, similar stitching is applied around the neck.
Also, the names and altitudes of the mountain passes are noted on the collar.
And the back pocket features two cute buttons you don’t often see.
These are meant to represent the eyes of the "bearded vulture."
The innovative design is truly eye-catching.
The fabric makes generous use of merino wool.
The size is a bit tighter than the "Classic Jersey" or "Club Jersey."
"I love climbing."
Since I say that quite often, there's no way I could pass this up.
I missed out on buying the "Galibier Jersey" last year, after all.
While I'm at it, the long-awaited Rapha Bidon has arrived, everyone!
Rapha Bidon
Small / 610ml ¥1,500
Large / 710ml ¥1,800
It features a CAMELBAK self-sealing lock valve.
It’s a "click, squirt!" motion.
No leaking of your drink, and you can rehydrate quickly.
Now, should I head east or west tomorrow wearing this...
Of course, I’m going climbing.
yanakku
★For inquiries about these items, please contact shop@circles-jp.com
Wondering about the blog title?
If you’re curious, take a look at my unpresentable appearance below.
If you’re interested...
A shot after training at Shin-Maiko with the CRC the other day.
Total coordination.
Of course, I calculated buying the ice cream.
Obviously...
