Blurring the line between work and play
By Sheri Rosenbaum Many of the cycling apparel companies are launching urban collections (see Primal Wear article) and Garneau is no exception. At Interbike 2017 Garneau announced their new Cityzen Collection aimed at bridging the gap between everyday clothing and athletic wear that’s designed for specific use. In January of this year the new line was made available to the public and offers both men’s and women’s gear.
If you are a regular reader of my reviews, I give high marks for clothing that provides multiple uses, especially when they come at a high price point. I have jackets, vests, and tights that function and look great both on and off the bike.
Every piece of the Cityzen Collection is designed for the urban rider and I was pleasantly surprised to see the collection has very reasonable price point. The women’s collection currently includes a dress, skirts, knickers and a jersey. The company sent me a couple of samples to test, including the Venice Cycling Tank Top ($44.99) and Verona sports bra ($37.99). In true Garneau style there is great attention to detail.
First, the Zircon fabric is extremely soft and has a silky feel. It is designed to be lightweight with good moisture-wicking properties. I definitely could see wearing this for cycling, running, yoga or to run errands on a warm summer day. Since it is winter in Chicago, I tested the tank and bra during trainer sessions on the bike or workouts at the gym.
The deep armholes and anti-chaffing seams provide freedom of movement. The hem is slightly longer in the back which provides added coverage. A zipper rear pocket with a headphone cable exit built in so you can easily run the cord up the inside. For added safety when running or biking outside, the logo and stitching are reflective.
The Verona matching sports bra is perfect to wear under the Venice tank, a jersey or by itself. It was both comfortable and supportive. The sports bra can be use with or without the removable padded cups. I chose to take them out. Note, this particular garment wont be available to the public until March 15th.
Note that since Cityzen is an urban design the fit is relaxed cut. I received my normal Garneau size but the collection tends to run a little big. I could have easily gone down a size in the tank. So I highly recommend to consult the sizing chart before ordering.
The men’s collection currently consists of two jerseys: Manchester Jersey ($54.99) and London Jersey ($49.99). Both jerseys are also made of lightweight Zircon. Subtle details like a sunglasses hook, plus the same reflective stitching, one zippered back pocket with headphone cable exit as the Venice top add real-life functionality while maintaining a casual, no-lycra appearance. The men’s Urban Shorts ($69.99) and women’s Urban Knickers ($79.99) come with a detachable inner liner and a removable chamois. The outer fabric is water, stain, and abrasion resistant. An elastic waistband offers a comfortable fit and the minimalistic SlimFlex chamois is antibacterial.
The Urban Shoes ($89.99) lets you clip-in but also wear in a non-cycling setting. This urban bike shoe has greater flex in the forefoot due to Garneau’s T-FLEX technology for easier walking. The lace-up construction with elastic lace-holders is lightweight and easily adjusted. The shoes are optimized for use with SPD cleat systems.
Bottom Line
Looking to extend your cycling wardrobe budget? Introducing Garneau’s new Cityzen Collection, a line of urban gear that takes you from work to play. The full line is at an excellent price point with high quality fabrics and attention to details that Garneau is known for. The line launched in January offers both men’s and women’s apparel and they’ll be adding to the offering over time. Remember the collection is an urban relax fit and runs roomy, so check the sizing chart before ordering.
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