Zipp's new Castelli kit. (Zipp)

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Zipp and Castelli drew on their collective experiences with the Cervélo Test Team to design Zipp’s ideal cycling kit. The Zipp branded, Castelli made Aero Race bib-short or shorts, Team jersey and Aero Race jersey are available in the Zipp Store and at your local bicycle shop.

Aero Race Jersey

Zipp claims that wind tunnel testing shows that the Aero Race Jersey saves 9 watts over a normal jersey when riding with your hands on the hoods at 40km/h. That equates to roughly 36 seconds saved every hour, if you’re a pro riding on the front like Thor Hushovd. For the rest of us, expect the advantage to be smaller. The lightweight fabric offers an aerodynamic advantage while body temperature can be regulated with base layers. The Aero Race advances technology in the neck and arm areas where the use of Giro++ grippers creates an absolute form fit in these critical airflow areas. A tight knit mesh back gives body heat release while still offering UV protection. The jersey features a quarter length front zipper and three rear pockets.

Recommended temperature range: 14+°C, 58+°F | Claimed weight: 109g | Sizes: S-XXL | US$120.00

Team Jersey

The Team jersey

Zipp’s ultimate day-to-day cycling jersey. The cut is extremely anatomic for on-the-bike comfort; the sleeves come out the front, not the sides. It’s also a bit tight across the chest once you first put it on but once on the bike the fit is perfect. Castelli’s Prosecco fabric treatment is said to quickly wick moisture to the outside of the fabric, keeping you drier. The Team jersey is built for riding comfort for training and Zipp says you should use their Aero Race jersey for competition. The jersey features a full front zipper and three rear pockets.

Recommended temperature range: 14+°C, 58+°F | Claimed weight: 114g | Sizes: S-XXL | $90.00

Aero Race bib short and short

The Aero bib short

The Aero Race model is based from the Castelli Free bib short, which is adapted for pro team use. The AC pad features flat lock stitching, the Giro++ patented gripper and the Free bib (wide spaced straps) that keeps your chest free and cool. Castelli says it’s designed increase performance by eliminating pressure points that restrict blood flow and getting oxygen to the muscles. Likewise the leg opening is designed not to overly constrict blood flow at its bottom, but also stay put. The bib straps spaced widely to hold up the short, but not affect temperature control since it doesn’t add an extra layer in the front.

Recommended temperature range: 14+°C, 58+°F | Claimed weight: 145g | Sizes: S-XXL | $180.00/$120.00 (bib/short)

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