Over the past few months, Isadore changed its new logo. For me, this was a reason to test some of their new clothing models. From Isadore, I received the Alternative short-sleeve baselayer, the Echelon Aero jersey in the color ‘Plum Truffle’, a black Signature bib, the Signature rain gilet in the color ‘Safari’, and the Echelon socks. Read my findings of the new Isadore clothing line here.
What immediately stands out is the choice of materials that Isadore has used. They are very comfortable, and the different clothing pieces fit wonderfully and comfortably. The choice of colors also stands out positively – they are very well done. The ‘truffle’ color has an elegant appearance and pairs well with the beige ‘safari’ of the gilet.
Alternative baselayer
An ultra-thin undershirt. Really designed for the summer. Very sleek in design. I personally found the length of the shirt a bit too short. My size S reaches just above the buttocks, whereas I prefer thermal shirts to go down to the buttocks. My suggestion would be to make the shirts slightly longer. Otherwise, it’s a very comfortable shirt. It complements nicely with the other Isadore thermal shirts I wear, the sleeveless merino variant, and the winter baselayer with a collar. MSRP 55 euros.
Echelon aero jersey
While I have tested Isadore’s merino jerseys in the past, this shirt is next level. It’s a true racing shirt. It’s lightweight, highly breathable, and fits snugly on the body. The pattern is a beautiful ‘honeycomb.’ Merino is a bit heavier and less elastic. It also tends to pill after multiple washes. This shirt is made of 75% polyester and 25% elastane, making it more flexible. There are three pockets at the back for carrying items. The new logo is on the left sleeve and the back of the shirt. I wear a size S. I personally found the length of the sleeves to be a bit long – they tend to wrinkle slightly in the front, in the elbow pit. However, it’s still a fantastic shirt. The zipper is slightly larger, which makes it easier to put on and take off. With a retail price of 180 euros, Isadore positions this shirt in the middle of the competition’s prices.
Signature – cargo – bib
This cycling shorts are incredibly comfortable. Although the chamois seems quite thin, the shorts are very comfortable. The shorts cover a large part of the backside, which I haven’t seen in other shorts/brands before. I find that very comfortable. Isadore has placed a mesh storage pocket on the right thigh, but I would have preferred two pockets, especially on long rides. I often use the right pocket for my phone. It makes taking photos easier than reaching for one of the rear pockets. There are reflective elements on the back of the legs for good visibility in the dark. The shorts are kept in place by the silicone on the inside of the leg ends. All in all, these are great bib shorts. Retail price 175 euros.
Signature rain gilet
A wonderfully lightweight gilet at 110 grams with a water column of 20,000 mm. It has a sturdy zipper that can be opened both from the top and bottom. There’s elastic around the arms (in the armpits) and at the bottom. What I personally find useful is a pocket on the back or front, like some other brands do. I can imagine that the gilet won’t be worn often in rainy weather because you would opt for a jacket instead. However, the gilet is very breathable and windproof, so it can also be worn in the spring and autumn. The high collar comes in handy during those seasons. Personally, I find the color (‘safari’) very successful. It might be worth considering making the logo on the back reflective for optimal safety. Retails for 170 euros.
Echelon socks
Nice, snug-fitting socks. Lightweight and highly breathable. They have the perfect length, just below the calf. The material of the sock is PROLEN, a mass-dyed polypropylene multifilament yarn produced in Slovakia under the beautiful mountains called the High Tatras. Over time, the sock still needs to prove its durability (I sometimes have issues with holes in socks around the big toe), but for now, I’ll give it the benefit of the doubt. Since there’s no visible logo on the sock, you can also pair it with shirts from other brands. The price is in line with what other brands charge for their socks: 25 euros.
Conclusion
In summary, with this cycling clothing set, Isadore can easily compete with other brands in the premium segment. 600 euros is still a lot of money, but unfortunately, that’s what good and durable clothing nowadays costs. I find Isadore’s clothing very comfortable, even on longer rides.
Author is 1.81m and 72 kg and wears size M.
