Key Takeaways:
– British cycling brand, Rapha, collaborates with Palace for the third time to release a limited-edition cycling kit.
– The new collection celebrates Rapha’s 20th anniversary with distinctive designs inspired by classic cycling looks from the 80s and 90s.
– Rapha Cycle Club members gain exclusive early access, with general purchase available via a ballot.
– The collection includes garments such as Rapha Palace Merino Zip Knit, Rapha Palace Classico Long and Short Sleeve Jerseys, amongst others.
– Availability begins online and in-store from 4th October in selected time zones, with access for Rapha Cycling Club members starting on 8th October.
British Brands in Getting Bolder
Beloved British cycling clothing brand, Rapha, and prominent skate and streetwear brand, Palace, are joining forces once more. The brands intend to release a limited edition range of cycling gear in celebration of Rapha’s two decades in the industry.
Having previously collaborated twice, Rapha and Palace have developed a strong rapport amongst cycling and fashion enthusiasts alike. Their initial partnership provided a new gear design for the EF Education WorldTour team in 2020, serving to prevent a colour clash of their kits at the Giro d’Italia. Despite facing a fine from UCI due to registration tardiness, the kits became sought-after items commanding high bids on eBay.
Collaboration to Commemoration
Their second collaboration emerged in celebration of the inaugural Tour de France Femmes in 2022. This new kit aimed to cater for both the men’s and women’s EF Education teams, once more making waves for the distinct and daring designs.
This latest partnership, the Rapha x Palace collection, maintains its creative streak. Drawing inspiration from 80s and 90s cycling outfits, these kits offer a unique twist sure to have cycling aficionados delighted. The range includes classics like the Rapha Palace Merino Zip Knit, Rapha Palace Shell 6-Panel, and the Rapha Palace Classico Long Sleeve Jersey.
Purchase and Priority
Anticipating high demand for the new arrivals, Rapha gives Rapha Cycle Club members priority access, followed closely by general availability. This strategy ensures die-hard fans get first dibs, with the rest of the cycling community joining soon after. From October 4th, fans can view the collection online from specific time zones and several Rapha stores in London, New York, LA and other locations.
Once viewing goes live, Rapha Cycling Club members will gain exclusive purchasing rights from 8th October. For the general public, the ballot opens on 9th October on the Rapha website. Limited quantities will also be available at Rapha’s London Clubhouse.
Celebrate Two Decades in Style
This uniquely designed release not only celebrates Rapha’s titular 20th anniversary but also signifies the power of collaborations between unconventional partners. By fusing the thrill of cycling with the grit of skate and streetwear, Rapha and Palace have created an aesthetic that speaks to modern style with a vintage twist.
In the world of cycling gear, collaborations like this create a splash not only on the track but also in the fashion world, adding another exciting layer to the sport. And as this is Rapha’s third partnership with Palace, it’s clear that the synergies between both brands are creating products that cyclists and fashionistas alike can’t get enough of. Whether you’re a Rapha Cycle Club member eager for early access or an enthusiast waiting for the ballot to drop, this new collection promises to not only meet but exceed all expectations.
Looking ahead, as Rapha celebrates its past with this 20th-anniversary collection, it also sows seeds for its future. With each successful collaboration, Rapha reminds us of the exhilarating creativity that can come from marrying passions, inspiring us all to find our unique combinations and collaborations in life, on and off the course.
In this third round of collaboration, Rapha and Palace have indeed set a new bar on how to bring together different realms of fashion, all while celebrating the spirit of cycling. And if everything goes as planned, we expect to see more of these successful partnerships in the future.