It’s almost the middle of June, and calendar summer is almost here, but meteorological summer is in full swing. Gear Break has all the info you need to get dressed up for the hot weather as the mercury rises. Chuck reviews a few pieces from the new Pearl Izumi Red collection. Assos has dropped a cool new commemorative kit for their 50th Anniversary. Gobik launches a new collection that offers exclusivity with premier fabrics, manufacturing, and limited release. Q36.5 has unveiled the Dottore Clima collection, and they tell the story of its final proofing on an epic Andorran ride. Castelli has you covered, literally, with airy fabrics and premier UV protection. And pulling up the last spot, the Rapha Cycling Club has relaunched, with Factor, its bike hire program at its clubhouses.
Pearl Izumi Red
Advanced cooling. Enhanced comfort. Built for focused miles.
PI/Red is Pearl Izumi’s newest collection (for both men and women):
PI/Red is built for riders who train hard and ride long. Lightweight compression supports your muscles, cooling technologies regulate heat, and refined construction eliminates distraction – so you can focus on the miles ahead.
PI/Red Men’s (left) and Women’s (right) collections
PI/Red Jersey
- Ultra-compressive Italian knit supports muscles, enhances circulation, and maintains a secure, aerodynamic fit
- In-R-Cool® sweat-activated HeiQ Smart Temp technology triggers cooling when body temperature rises
- GoFresh
anti-odor treatment keeps fabric fresh through long, hot rides - UPF sun protection guards against harmful rays
- Low-profile collar and shortened torso minimize drag for a refined on-bike silhouette
- YKK® semi-locking front zipper enables secure closure and easy venting
- Three rear pockets with internal divider provide organized storage for essentials
- BioViz® reflective elements ensure 100-meter visibility in low light
Made with recycled materials for reduced environmental impact
Chuck sez: It’s almost officially summer (north of the Equator), so time to start thinking about kit for hotter weather. The new Pearl Izumi PI/Red Jersey falls into that category.
NOTE: The collection is called Red and one of the jersey colors is Cherry Tomato red, but PEZ got Citadel, which is either green-ish or blue-ish depending on the light.
Definitely a lightweight jersey, which is what you want in hotter weather
Construction-wise, the PI/Red Jersey is fairly “typical” (not a criticism, just an observation):
- Front panel separated by a full-length YKK zipper
- Back panel with three rear pockets (the right rear pocket has an internal divider to help organize/keep stuff separated)
- Two side panels that extend to the underarms of the sleeves
- The sleeves are a little bit different/unique: kind of a raglan construction from the front but kind of a set-in construction from the back
- Fused hem sleeve ends
- Low mock collar
- Wrap-around gripper (with silicone dots) at the hem
- All the seams are serge stitched
What makes the PI/Red Jersey a hotter weather jersey is the material:
- The front and back panels are micro-mesh
- The side and underarm panels are a more open mesh
- The top of the sleeves is a solid material with subtle ribbing that’s a nod to #aero
So it’s a jersey with a lot of venting for cooling and wicking.
1 – Micro-mesh. 2 – Open mesh. 3 – Solid. Inset – Subtle #aero ribbing on the sleeves.
Fit-wise, a size small PI/Red Jersey fit me (5’8″, 130 pounds, ectomorph) comfortably snug with moderate compression. Not quite spray-on, second skin race fit, but definitely form fitting — even around my skinny-ish arms. And I liked how the sleeve ends rely on compression rather than gripper material (ever so slightly more comfortable). I wear a base layer in hot weather, but the material was smooth against my bare skin.
PI/Red Bib Shorts
- Lightweight, compressive nylon fabric supports muscles and enhances circulation for lasting performance
- In-R-Cool® infrared technology with coldblack® reduces heat buildup from the sun’s rays and provides reliable UV protection
- Dual-density ELITE 3D Levitate chamois minimizes abrasion and pressure while maintaining stretch and contour
- Italian lightweight mesh back panel ensures maximum breathability and rapid moisture evaporation
- Elastic mesh bib upper offers secure comfort with minimal bulk
- Raw-edge leg bands with silicone grippers provide a sleek, stay-put fit
- Zero inseam construction eliminates friction for all-day comfort
- BioViz® reflective elements enhance visibility up to 100 meters in low-light conditions
- 10.5” inseam
Pearl Izumi doesn’t spec weight for the PI/Red Bib Shorts
Chuck sez: Like the PI/Red Jersey, the PI/Red Bib Shorts construction is not out of the ordinary (again, not a criticism):
- The legs are each two panels with raw cut leg bands (with silicone gripper dots on the inside)
- The upper portion of the shorts consists of two panels, front and rear
- In a departure from a Y-back bib, the bib straps (raw cut) are essentially straight — connecting at four points (two in the front and two in the back) to the shorts section
- The bib straps are connected in the back by a mesh ventilated panel
- All the seams are serge stitched
The bib straps connect front-to-back at four points
Of course, the most important part of any pair of bib shorts is the pad — Pearl Izumi uses its ELITE Levitate chamois that’s dual density
On me, a size small PI/Red Bib Shorts fit with moderately firm compression. They were tight, but not skinny jeans tight — I could more or less just slip them on. I expected raw cut bib straps to be comfortable and not dig in, but the “straight” design provided a subliminal level of comfort. An no dreaded sausage casing effect from the leg grippers. Just wearing the PI/Red Bib Shorts, the ELITE Levitate pad made its presence known — but was comfortable and unobtrusive once I was in the saddle.
Initial verdict …
My first ride in the PI/Red kit was just a 20-something miler, but on an 87F afternoon with the feels like temp 93F (so humidity around 55%). Definitely what you could call hot and just a little bit sticky. There isn’t any kit (that I know of) that will actually keep you cool, i.e., lower the temp, in those kind of conditions. But the PI/Red kit was as good as it gets in terms of not making me feel any hotter and wicking away sweat. Once up to a reasonable speed, I could feel the venting/air flow. We’ll see how it does on longer rides, but I’m confident it will just be more of the same.
IMHO, the PI/Red collection is kit that should be on your shopping radar for summer riding.
ASSOS A50 Anniversary Drop
50 Years. One Obsession. 1976 /// 2026
Until 1976, steel, leather, and wool defined cycling. But founder Toni Maier knew there was a better way. Informed by wind-tunnel testing and inspired by skiing, he went all-in on fabrics from the future. 50 years on, ASSOS of Switzerland remains at the forefront of performance cycling apparel.
For its historic golden jubilee, ASSOS has unveiled its highly anticipated A50 Anniversary Drop. This limited-edition collection is a tribute to speed, innovation, and the athletes who’ve paved the way. ASSOS’ built the Anniversary drop on the EQUIPE R racing platform. It features custom graphics that celebrate fifty years of Swiss Speed Engineering. It marks a bold stylistic departure under a design ethos titled “Techno-Anarchy”, merging elite Swiss precision with a raw, avant-garde aesthetic. This collection is a celebration of a fifty-year legacy, summarised by ASSOS’ guiding insight: Fifty years of fast. Fifty years of first. Fifty years forward.
Heritage Meets Radical Design
The core design of the anniversary jersey draws direct inspiration from Daniel Gisiger, the former Swiss professional road and track cyclist who transitioned into one of the sport’s most respected technical coaches. The apparel integrates historical visual cues referencing classic team heritages like Cilo and Lejeune. These vintage reference points are seamlessly twisted into modern graphic panels featuring raw poetic typography, including “Spinning maps in headlights” and “Beyond the rise, into the wind”.
Elite Technical Specifications
The EQUIPE/DYORA R S11 A50 collection delivers uncompromising, race-ready performance optimised specifically for fast riding and competitive racing in ambient temperatures between 15°C and 30°C:
- Aircell Fabric: The main body of the jersey features circular-knit Aircell fabric. Weighing a mere 110g/m2, it represents the brand’s lightest main jersey textile used after the RSR or Houdini series. It delivers 4-way asymmetrical stretch, exceptional breathability, and quick-drying characteristics.
- Push Pull Stabilisation: The rear panels employ a fine gauge Push Pull fabric (180g/m2) engineered to provide structural shape and density. This allows riders to carry heavy objects in their pockets with perfect stabilisation.
- Ultra-Lightweight Construction: The entire jersey weighs just 133g in a size M, utilising bonded technology and a dedicated racing fit that holds the sleeves securely just above the elbow while enhancing overall product durability.
- Triple Ramp Pockets: Specialized pockets handle storage with flexible internal fabric panels that act as “lids” to secure and stabilize contents during high-cadence riding.
- Type.911 Compression Shorts: The matching bib shorts are constructed from Type.911 fabric, an ultra-fine 40-gauge warp knit that is highly compressive, durable, and abrasion-resistant.
- Skin Grip & S11 Insert: The shorts integrate patented X-Frame technology, an EQUIPE R S11 insert with a Mono shock-absorb damping system, and a seamless raw-cut Skin Grip Finish to anchor the legs in place without excessive pressure.
Pricing & Availability
- EQUIPE/DYORA R Jersey S11 A50: €160 | £140 | $210
- EQUIPE/DYORA R Bib Shorts S11 A50: €220 | £185 | $260
Full details on the collection are available at assos.com.
Gobik TheOneOff
Unrestricted exploration
Gobik is redefining the boundaries of athletic performance with the launch of The One Off. Conceived as an unrestricted territory for experimentation, this new line follows in the footsteps of creative movements that have previously transformed the fashion industry. Gobik introduces a brand-new line that elevates technical equipment into objects of high design and technical sophistication.
The One Off stems from a conceptual pursuit: the search for what does not yet exist. This new universe serves as an extension of Gobik’s vision into a more aspirational and uninhibited realm—a space where extreme functionality meets an avant-garde aesthetic. Here, next-generation fabrics and unprecedented patterns take shape, entirely free from the constraints of commercial seasons or mass-market consumer trends.
A New Brand Frontier
Driven by the premise “What if the question matters more than the answer?” This new line shifts the focus away from the standard product cycle to center on the development process itself and a completely new design language.
David Martínez, Marketing Manager at Gobik, sez: “The One Off was born with global relevance in mind, leveraging Gobik’s technical expertise. It is aimed at individuals with a deep appreciation for fashion and design—those who view technical apparel as a form of cultural expression and understand that true excellence stems from exclusivity and creative risk.”
The One Off opens a unique space where cycling intersects with contemporary culture and technical innovation. Gobik presents these products as unrepeatable. Almost artisanal in conception, yet highly technological in execution. It is Gobik’s most radical expression yet, designed specifically for those seeking something genuinely new and unique.
Exclusive Launch and Availability
The One Off was unveiled on June 8. In alignment with its experimental nature, releases will be dropped in highly limited series, advanced prototypes, and unique pieces that challenge conventional manufacturing processes.
To maintain its distinct identity, the brand will utilize an absolute exclusivity distribution model. The collection will be available through theoneoff.cc and a curated selection of specialized boutiques. Gobik aims to solidify its status as a coveted object of desire for collectors and technical design enthusiasts alike.
Q36.5 Dottore Clima Range
Climate tested and proven
On the morning of August 12th, 2025, Cameron Wurf rolled out into the Andorran mountains at 6:20am, beginning what would become one of the most demanding single-day tests of performance apparel imaginable.
The air was a crisp 12°C, dropping to 9°C at the first summit. Over the next 12+ hours, Wurf would cover more than 300km, climb 10,000 metres and ride through a 20°C swing in temperature, taking on every climb in Andorra in a single, relentless effort.
He wasn’t alone for long!
Pidder’s turns up the heat
Partway through the challenge, Andorra local and Pinarello x Q36.5 rider Tom Pidcock joined the ride, swapping a few hours of support for a fresh set of the new Q36.5 Dottore Clima kit in his preferred blue-grey tones. The same advanced fabrics had already been tested by Pidcock weeks earlier in his Vuelta-specific skinsuit, developed in parallel by Q36.5 and later worn on his way to a Grand Tour podium.
As Q36.5’s R&D team finalised the latest evolution of its Dottore Clima range, designed for extreme summer conditions, the brief to Cam was simple: test Dottore Clima where it matters most. You cant just rely on controlled environments, but you also have to take it out into the real world, under extreme pressure.
Cam’s Andorra epic provided exactly the test they needed, long sustained climbs, and high temperatures all day.
The next evolution of hot-weather performance
The Dottore Clima range represents the most advanced expression of Q36.5’s approach to extreme heat riding.
Engineered for temperatures above 25°C, it delivers the brand’s signature Dottore speed, stability, support and precision fit, while introducing a more aggressively ventilated, ultralight construction designed to optimise thermoregulation during high-intensity efforts.
For 2026, both the bib shorts and jersey have been reworked, pushing Q36.5’s expertise in high-density woven fabric construction to new limits, maximising airflow and cooling without sacrificing durability or structure.
From prototype to podium
The Dottore Clima Jersey takes direct inspiration from Q36.5’s work at the highest level of professional cycling.
Key materials in the Clima range include a graphene-yarn fabric used across the chest and back panels, and an ultralight ribbed woven fabric on the sleeves, which were first developed and tested in skinsuits for Tom Pidcock and his teammates during the 2025 Vuelta a España.
The result is no longer just a jersey for extreme heat, but also a fully aero-optimized racing garment, built for intensity, speed and performance when conditions are most demanding.
Pricing & Availability
To browse the full range, head over to q36-5.com. Jerseys are $300 | 220€ | £220, bibs run $400 | 300€ | £220, and wind jacket at $195 | 140€ | £140. Matching base layers and socks round out the range. You may purchase direct from Q36.5 or from select retailers.
Castelli Hot Weather Range
Premium cooling and evaporation with advanced UPF protection
Castelli has unveiled its new Hot Weather range. Designed to excel when the heat is on, the collection is guided by three core principles: maximizing airflow, accelerating evaporation, and providing advanced UPF protection.
The fully updated line seamlessly fuses innovative technologies with a fresh aesthetic, delivering premium garments that riders will actively reach for when temperatures spike.
The Height of Cool: Climber’s A/C Jersey
The Climber’s A/C Jersey is optimized for elite performance during the very hottest days in the saddle. Engineered to fit like a second skin, the jersey utilizes a CFD-optimized fabric placement and seam construction for enhanced aerodynamics, proven in the world’s biggest races. The Flusso 3D fabric on the front and side panels comprises a super-light mesh structure that allows cooling airflow while the Strada Pro 3D fabric on the back offers UPF 13 protection as well as being ultra-breathable.
Although the jersey was created for warm summer days, adding a base layer extends the temperature range it can be worn in while retaining the extreme breathability.
Ultimate Sun Protection: UPF Jersey
The new UPF Jersey, available in short- and long-sleeve options, is perfectly suited to riders seeking maximum sun defense without paying the price of excess weight and heat. The entire jersey utilizes the lightest-possible fabric which delivers UPF 50+ protection. A higher collar and extended sleeves also provide additional skin cover.
Impossibly Light: Men’s Superleggera Bibshort
The men’s Superleggera Bibshort is Castelli’s lightest-ever road short, designed to keep riders cool on the longest summer days. It introduces an exclusive seamless, graduated-ventilation and stretch-woven fabric that maximizes airflow and reduces weight by up to 50% while simultaneously improving durability.
This groundbreaking short also features a minimalist stripe mesh bib and is anchored by the renowned Progetto X2 Air Seamless seat pad for elevated performance.
Advanced Ventilation: A/C Bibshort
Designed specifically for high-temperature rides, the A/C Bibshort incorporates a unique mesh architecture to optimize lower-body ventilation. The closed-knit side panels deliver an optimal balance of breathability and UPF 50+ protection while the minimalist mesh bib straps and integrated mesh leg grippers actively prevent overheating. Both the men’s and women’s versions come equipped with the top-tier Progetto X2 Air Seamless seat pad for ultimate comfort.
Steve Smith, Global Brand Manager, sez:
“Summer means different things for cyclists who are seeking peak performance, but the most common themes are keeping cool and being protected from the sun.
“For those who prioritize keeping cool, we make the lightest-possible products that still block the majority of UV rays…only allowing 1/13th of rays to pass through.
“For those who prioritize sun protection, our UPF Jersey, A/C Bibshort and Sleeves provide UPF 50+ protection, blocking over 98% of the UV rays while still remaining as cool as possible.
“Traditionally that level of defense meant compromising on weight, but by devoting countless hours to R&D, we’ve developed fabrics for this collection which tick all the boxes when it comes to being lightweight, breathable, and protective.”
Pricing & Availability
For full details of the women’s range, navigate to castelli-cycling.com. The men’s range can be seen here. Both links also contain pricing and permit ordering direct, otherwise, you can find selected retailers here.
Rapha Cycling Club x Factor
Hire a bike that you’d buy
Explore the world by bike with an exclusive Factor bike fleet available for hire at Rapha Clubhouses across the globe. As a Rapha Cycling Club (RCC) member benefit, RCC members can travel to select locations globally and instead of taking their bike, hire a bike. No faffing about, just hire it and go ride it!
RCC Member Bookings
Hire bikes are available for 3-7 days, depending on location. The fleet is available to reserve from Rapha Clubhouses. A day rate of £55 or local equivalent is charged to cover the costs of maintenance and superficial wear and tear.
Key Details
The bike: Factor Monza
Combining WorldTour-level performance with an adaptive fit and utilitarian features, the MONZA maximizes ride comfort by using a precise carbon layup that emphasizes not only comfort, but responsiveness. Intelligent geometry and design decisions allow riders to settle into an appropriately aggressive set-up while enjoying the practical features that focus on the needs of the daily rider.
The wheels: Black Inc FORTY FIVE
Completing the set-up, the bike is also specced with the Black Inc FORTY FIVE wheels, ensuring RCC members get the full Factor experience. The aero-optimised and lightweight wheelset is fast, versatile, and robust, matching its race-optimised design and delivering exceptional performance.
The gear(s): SRAM Force AXS
On top of this Sram Force AXS completes the set up providing excellent brake control and shifting whatever the terrain.
Additional Information
As a shared Club fleet, Rapha reminds all members to ride each bike with respect and due caution. Members are liable for up to £10,000 for any crash damage or theft.
For full details, including terms and conditions, head over to racha.cc.
Note: If you have other experiences with gear or something to add, drop us a line. We don’t claim to know everything (we just imply it at times). Give us a pat on the back if you like the reviews. Or, call us out if you feel the need!
PezCycling News and the author ask that you consult the manufacturers if you have any questions about the products you see here. Only the manufacturer can provide accurate and complete information on proper/safe use, handling, maintenance, and or installation of products as well as any conditional information or product limitations.
The post Gear Break: Dressed Up – Pearl Izumi Red, ASSOS A50, Gobik TheOneOff, Q36.5 Dottore Clima, Castelli Hot Weather, RCC Bike Hire appeared first on PezCycling News.
