[mikemikemike]

Saw this and had to post, 'cause I agree:
Dylan Goes Electric | Privateer.cc

I've been loving my kitsbow shorts - after years of low-level frustration about baggies that reviewed well but never felt quite right and left much to be desired in fit and function on the bike, I threw down for the promise of mtb clothing made right. Thrilled so far. Will post more details as I get more miles on them, but the workmanship, detail and material (!) are head and shoulders above what I've ridden before.

 

[kragu]

Holy expensive.

 

[pinkrobe]

Dirt Rapha. The Schoeller fabric is nice, as are the in-between sizes, but the price tag is nuts. My fall/winter/spring shorts are the mid-weight shants from Swrve in the US. Durable, comfy, do what it says on the tin (as the Brits say).

 

[mikemikemike]

Dirt Rapha.

exactly.

 

[wmac]

A guy who wears $5k suits to work has no problem dropping a grand on clothing to ride a bike.

 

[kragu]

A guy who wears $5k suits to work has no problem dropping a grand on clothing to ride a bike.

True. Some people live in a different world than the rest of us. I guess you can make that argument for someone with a bike that's more expensive than his car...

 

[mikemikemike]

Realize I never got back to this.

For me, it's not about $5 suits or extra disposable income. My bike is worth more than my car, true, but it's because my bike is my priority - the car's a 12 year old honda

It's about value. I've worn several pairs of 100 dollar shorts, and my reactions have ranged from slight irritation to absolute loathing for how they sag, catch on the saddle, feel against my skin etc. These do me right - being comfortable improves my riding experience. Not being aware of the shorts is the ultimate.

Anyhow, definitely not for everyone, but it has been some of the best money I've spent on gear.

 

[tonytourist]

I love my Kitsbow baggies! They are expensive, but I think they will last me a long time, unlike my last pair of ~90 shorts that were worn out within a few months. The long sleeve jersey is nice, though I've only worn mine once since its too hot for that here now. I'm looking forward to their summer gear.

 

[OldManBike]

Where I ride, the word for spending $500 for shorts to mountain bike in isn't "impeccable." It's imbecile.

But plenty of people spend silly money like that on silly things, so I wouldn't be surprised if it's a viable business model.

 

[TheSchwagman]

Here's what I think.

dirtbaggies.com

That is all.

 

[Gonzo 1971]

Here is my take on the Kitsbow stuff. They are trying to provide top quality no comprimise products. That quality of materials costs good money. The most expensive short I saw was $269. Not cheap. I have one good pair of shorts that have held up over the years. I bought them in 1988! So If I can get even 5-10 years out of a short why not get the best? People drop $3000 plus for a bike without batting an eye. Good gear lasts doesnt fade. Wear it every day. Wash it 3x a week and not fade. That is money well spent in my book. My grandma always said "only the rich can afford to buy cheap". Now will these measure up? Time will tell. I see these shorts like buying a frame. Do you want hand made in north america or a taiwan production frame? So no need to bash. Just dont buy them. I want a pair of shorts!

 

[wmac]

Imbeciles buy these too

 

[Gonzo 1971]

That is relivent? It is more like Craftsman tools or Snap-on? Both work and one is better in every way. You pay ALOT more for that quality. Then again, some people couldnt regognize the difference and thats ok.

 

[wmac]

An airline ticket and a Gulfstream get you from one airport to another. You pay A LOT more for the Gulfstream. Then again, some people are okay with an airline ticket - and that's okay.

 

[mikemikemike]

Just came across this review of another Kitsbow piece I have not worn.

Seb Kemp has credibility in my eyes. I have not seen the mixed shell, but man does this make me want to pick one up for the fall.

Reviewed: Kitsbow Mixed Shell Jacket

Here is his conclusion:
"I’ve worn this jacket on every ride this year. I’m sad that now it is summer I won’t be needing to use it as much. The jacket is the best item of cycle specific clothing I have ever worn. It isn’t just nicer than most, it is considerably better than anything that is available. The fabrics are superior, the cut is without comparison, and the attention to detail is phenomenal. It all feels like it was custom tailored. It is just that good."