Key Takeaways:
– Uno-X mobility teams are swapping Belgian brand BioRacer for Danish brand, Fusion.
– Zipperless jerseys are not a new concept but unseen in road racing before.
– Fusion offers three zipperless options with different material and sleeve variations.
– Uno-X’s new jersey features in the product line are the TEMPO! ONE, which is made from lycra for enhanced aerodynamics.
– Riders can opt for either a zipperless or zippered jersey based on personal preference.
Pushing the Limit with Zipperless Design
The world of cycling is constantly evolving, and December is the season for showcasing innovative kit designs and transitioning partnerships. Uno-X, the Scandinavian mobility team, has taken the spotlight by switching their gear from the Belgian brand BioRacer to the closer-to-home Danish brand, Fusion. A team largely made up of Scandinavian riders and staff, this move not only acts as a boost to regional brands but also reveals a curious choice in jersey design.
The Zipless Revolution
While zipperless jerseys are common in cross-country mountain biking, they are relatively unheard of in road racing. The absence of a zip offers an uninterrupted surface for a clean, streamlined look; however, such a design has potential drawbacks like the inability to fully open up the garment for quick ventilation.
The tried-and-tested UAE Team Emirates did trial a zipperless design back in 2018, but it didn’t quite catch on as riders missed the option to unzip entirely. The new Fusion jerseys, as seen on the Uno-X riders, seemingly reintroduce this idea in a different setting and will likely catalyze a wide discussion in the cycling community regarding its practicality and advantages.
Fusion’s Innovative Approach
Fusion has developed three unique zipperless jerseys. The TEMPO! ONE, captured in Instagram teasers, is made of solid lycra for enhanced aerodynamics. The zip-free design, along with trip-strip lines on selected colour options, promise less air resistance and potentially faster speeds.
Yet, some questions arise, specifically regarding the selected Uno-X kit version that features mesh sleeves instead of the aero ones. This blend of performance and comfort might suggest a tailored approach based on specific race conditions or rider needs.
Another interesting jersey from Fusion’s line-up is TEMPO! HC, designed primarily with mesh for superior heat management, most likely catering to riders in warmer climates or intensive training schedules. Lastly, their Cycling Training Jersey seems created for general exercise use.
The Potential Impact on Performance
Cycling apparel, especially those for professional racing, is designed to exert minimal energy wastage, allowing athletes to utilize every ounce of their strength to push ahead. Uno-X’s new jersey, designed to enhance fit and aerodynamics while remaining comfortable, will essentially redefine the performance dynamics on the racing track.
Casper Von Folsach, the Performance Coach for Uno-X says, “For race use, we will pretty much exclusively race in one-piece suits (different suits for different conditions).” His words indicate that while zipperless designs may have their advantages, the final call will always vary according to rider preference and race specifics.
Fusion’s approach is setting a dynamic trend in the cycling industry, and the interest around this jersey has only just begun. Whether the Uno-X team’s performance increases with the use of such gear would further prompt inquiries from teams worldwide. From a technical standpoint, the Zip-free apparel in road racing might be a new territory that the sport is venturing into, holding significant potential for race dynamics in the years to come. The Uno-X and Fusion partnership opens up a new page in the cycling fashion book, keeping enthusiasts and fans eager to see how this change will impact the team and the broader industry.
Cycling professionals and fans alike will watch with bated breath as the Uno-X team, clad in the latest Fusion zipperless jersey, takes on future competitions.