Japan and Italy are international hubs for clothing design. They make a lot of the nicest stuff. It’s no coincidence then, that everything I’ve seen from PEdAL ED is lovely. The company was started by Hideto Suzuki, a veteran of the Japanese fashion industry and all their kit is manufactured in one of these two countries.
Over the summer I rode the Okabe Jersey, which was comfy as any jersey I’ve ever used, even on brutal New Mexico mid-day rides. And now that we’re moving into winter I’ve been spending a lot of time in the Discovery Shell. What I like most about the jacket is that it’s a waterproof softshell. The material keeps the rain out but is also stretchy, supple and particularly nice on the skin.
Out cruising the Discovery adds several degrees of warmth, and when you’re kicking up a hill it vents plenty fast. A nice long tail protects your tuchas when the water is flying and you find yourself without fenders, and a huge rear pocket will store your wallet, keys and phone so you don’t need to haul a bag.
Like most of PEdAL ED’s kit, the Discovery is principally designed for commuting or riding home from the bar so it’s cut fairly loose and might be a little heavy for long road rides. I’ve put in 15 miles wearing the jacket and been happy every with every pedal stroke but I might choose something a little lighter for 50-mile weekend ride. Different tools for different jobs.
If you want to complete your winter PEdAL ED kit, check out their reflective jeans and boots. Plenty to lust after as the temps continue to drop.
