Let’s try something a little new, starting today.
"Clothing from the perspective of a bike shop"
When I’m riding my bike,
there are moments when I suddenly think, “This outfit is just right.”
The way the breeze flows through it, the way it wicks away sweat, or the lightness I feel when waiting at a red light. And on top of that, it’s stylish, perhaps a bit unique, or just feels like "me."
It’s the accumulation of small sensations like these that slowly changes the impression of our clothing.
I believe the clothes a cyclist chooses aren’t just about looking good—they are things that naturally link to their lifestyle.
Commuting, school, long rides, adventure rides, city cruising, rainy days, travel. We ride our bikes through so many different scenes.
In that kind of life, you want clothes that aren't too fussy, that function properly, and that fit your own style.
That balance is surprisingly difficult, but that’s what makes it interesting.
So, I’m starting a new series where I introduce styles that I’ve found to be "just right" for the real life of a cyclist.
I hope this serves as a little inspiration for your daily wardrobe.
"Clothing from the perspective of a bike shop" Vol.1: Shorts Style
For our first installment, let’s think about Shorts Style.
Many cyclists wear them not just in the summer, but in spring, autumn, and even winter, right?
A shorts style that allows for easy pedaling is a perfect match for cycling.
Here is a question I’d like to ask:
Do you switch up which shorts you wear when you’re "on the bike" versus when you’re "off the bike"?
Personally, until now, I used to separate them.
For long rides or adventure rides, I’d wear something that was easy to move in and that I didn’t mind getting dirty.
And those shorts wouldn’t get worn on my days off when going into town or for work. Before I knew it, I had a stash of "RIDE-only" shorts.
But a bicycle is supposed to be a vehicle of freedom. If that’s the case, our clothes should be freer, too.
I’ve come to feel that I want to make full use of the clothes I love, without being tied down by "ON" or "OFF."
I chose the Mannenrou NYLON HARVEST SHORTS, Circles Bespoke
Mannenrou is an outdoor apparel brand that bridges the gap between the everyday and the extraordinary.
Out of their many offerings, I chose the NYLON HARVEST SHORTS, which have gained immense support from everyone from cyclists to hikers and runners.
The appeal of the NYLON HARVEST SHORTS includes:
・Lightweight & Quick-drying: Tough against sweat, rain, and laundry, they are "built for heavy use."
・Overwhelmingly convenient pocket design: You can carry small items without a bag.
・Workwear-inspired: Durable for "crouching, straddling, and rubbing."
They come equipped with fantastic gimmicks for active scenarios, but I believe the greatest charm of Mannenrou is their fashion sense.
The Mannenrou designer, Mr. Sakashita, has been at the forefront of the fashion industry for years and has a deep understanding of "clothing."
While functional, there is a certain spaciousness to the designs that allows them to be worn naturally in daily life. This exquisite balance allows them to seamlessly bridge the gap between the city and the mountains.
"Equipped with outdoor specs, yet viable as fashion."
I fell in love with the "just right" feeling that Mr. Sakashita creates, and I asked for a bespoke version.
Available in two colors. We ordered them with accent-colored waist cords to contrast with the subdued body colors.
We created a color scheme that looks great in the city and out in the field, keeping it simple yet playful.
Shorts Style
Shirt: RAL Chambray L/S Shirts
Inner: MERINO MERINO
Pants: Mannenrou NYLON HARVEST SHORTS Circles Bespoke
Shoes: BEDROCK SANDALS Mountain Clog Nubuck Leather
Sunglasses: OWL MILS Rota
This outfit, in terms of ON/OFF, is definitely OFF.
I’ve brought these shorts, which are naturally at home in the field, into the city.
The relaxed feel of the nylon shorts is paired with a vibrant top. The chambray shirt thrown on top keeps the look from getting too masculine, giving it a refined finish.
Because the shorts have a comfortable silhouette, the balance isn’t overly sporty. Depending on how you pair the top, the shorts have a deep versatility that can range from rough to somewhat elegant.
Whether I’m riding my bike or getting off to step into a shop for coffee,
it’s a balance that fits naturally in both settings.
Unpretentious, yet thoughtful—that is my "just right" everyday wear.
What I feel when actually wearing them is that they are incredibly light.
They don’t hinder leg movement during pedaling, and the sensation of the wind passing through is pleasant. They dry quickly even if you sweat, which is another point I truly appreciate.
The pocket storage is great, providing enough capacity to securely hold a smartphone or slightly larger items.
I can feel the high level of perfection as a "garment to be used to the fullest."
The Mannenrou NYLON HARVEST SHORTS Circles Bespoke will be available starting at the Mannenrou POPUP held from 4/18.
These are shorts we’ve worn ourselves and recommend with confidence. We hope you’ll take this opportunity.
Also, at the POPUP, we will have a wide lineup available.
We will be offering a variety of items, including the highly popular NYLON HARVEST TRAINER series, COACH JACKET, MESH BASQUE SHIRT, and more.
We look forward to seeing you there.