Last month I had the privilege to test Isadore’s Climber’s kit, including a soft merino baselayer (US$65), the stylish Atlas Climber’s jersey (US$170), the Climber’s bib shorts (US$195) and the Atlas socks (US$25). The Atlas Cimber’s #ReadytoClimb cap topped this amazing bundle (US$23).
About
Isadore was founded by Martin and Peter Veltis, brothers from Slovakia. Martin was a pro rider and rode all the great races, including Paris-Roubaix and the Tour de France. His brother Peter’s best results were a second place in general classification of the Vuelta Espana in 2010 and his U23 World Champion title are the results that defined my career. He also holds three team time trial world championship titles that he won as a member of Quick-Step and BMC. These gents know what they’re talking about. They know what works on the road and what not. So I was not afraid that I’d get inferior stuff in the mailbox.
I’m an experienced Dutch rider, probably riding 10.000K a year or so. I ride my bike year round through rain, wind and sunny weather. Flat lands as well as mountains. For more than 10 years now.
In the last couple of years, I’ve ridden and tested many brands, including Etxeondo, 7Mesh and Rapha. For Isadore I spent roughly 360 kilometers on the bike testing Isadore’s Climber’s kit. Including a 5 hour ride. And what a pleasure! This bundle totals almost US$500. A lot of bucks, but more than worth it.
Merino SL baselayer
The slim fit merino baselayer fits very comfortably. I found it a bit too warm for temperatures more than 20 degrees centigrade, but that’s roughly also what they advertise on their website (16-24 degrees). I would argue that a temperature range of 12-20 degrees would make more sense. The collar cut is a sweet design element.
Climber’s bib shorts
Isadore’s Climber’s bib is (in one word) amazing. The shoulder straps are comfortable and sturdy. The silicone grippers keep the shorts at the tan lines and the chamois from one piece and 4 layers (produced in Italy) gives you enough protection for hours of fun on the bike. Even the silicone grippers are designed with #borntoclimb letters. The bib has black reflective Isadore logos on both sides.
Climber’s jersey Atlas 2.0
The Atlas Climber’s jersey is a combo of lycra sleeves and cargo pockets and a merino/lycra mix for the front and back panels. It’s very lightweight and cool. With the silicone grippers the sleeves have a good grip. The longer designed sleeves is exactly what you expect from fashionable brands these days. It has 3 cargo pockets and a small zipped pocket. Although enough I would advise to integrate a second zipped pocket. Especially on longer rides I always advise: the more the merrier. Another thing is the sizing: I rode with a medium sized jersey but felt it’s a bit spacey at the front panel. A size S would probably be a better choice for me after all.
The Climber’s socks are elastic and fit perfectly. They have the ideal height (as ankle socks are a no-go these days).
Final comments
My conclusion is that if you buy this Isadore bundle or end up buying individual pieces – this is very good value for your dollars spent. It sits in the price range of 7Mesh, Etxeondo, and La Passione. I think it is a bit cheaper than MAAP, PNS and Rapha, but with the same quality. So this is very competitive pricing. I personally like the Atlas design a lot and would prefer to buy something more exclusive like Isadore over Rapha that everyone is wearing. Kudos for Isadore.
About the author
The author is 181cm tall and 72kg. Shoe size 42.5/43. The Isadore garments he wore during the test all have a size M, except for the socks (L/XL) and bib shorts (L).
