Rapha launches Imperial Works Collection that references the brand’s origins

Rapha has launched its new Imperial Works collection which takes its name from the brand's original offices inside an old piano factory; the design is a throwback to the original members-only kit for modern-day Rapha Cycling Club (RCC) members.

“Long before the signature stripes of the RCC were to be seen in cities around the world, there was another club based in London but with an Italian soul.

“Imperial Works was an invitation-only members club whose luxurious livery was the envy of other cyclists,” Rapha says.

The brand has recreated the black, purple and gold in a collection that is available only to RCC members.

The Imperial Works Collection consists of Men’s and Women’s Classic Bib Shorts, Men’s and Women’s Tricolour Jersey, Jersey, Track Jacket, Merino Base Layer, Socks and Cap.

Let’s take a look at the products in the line-up…

Men’s and Women’s Imperial Works Tricolour Jersey, £140

“The Tricolour Jersey features an adapted version of the club’s original colours with a contrast stripe across the chest and embroidered detailing throughout,” Rapha says.

It is made with Rapha’s soft RPM150 blend with recycled fibres for a lower environmental impact. A quarter-zip is included for ventilation.

The jersey also features an embroidered treble clef on the pocket as a nod to Rapha's original offices inside an old piano factory.

Imperial Works Club Jersey, £140

Made with the RPM150 blend, there are embroidered details throughout this jersey, including the signature armband.

The full-length Super Lampo zip should keep you cool in hotter conditions.

Men’s and Women’s Imperial Works Classic Bib Shorts, £170

There are limited-edition versions of the brand’s Classic bibs in men’s and women’s cuts, featuring a chamois with several layers of quick-drying foam and an antibacterial finish on top.

The uppers are made from a lightweight mesh for breathability, while the central cut out on the back of the men's is there to further aid temperature regulation.

Low-profile silicone leg grippers are designed to keep the shorts securely in place, while reflective popping on the side panels helps with on-bike visibility in low light conditions.

Imperial Works Merino Base Layer, £60

Made with a merino wool blend, Rapha says this base layer is versatile and comfortable, promising to keep you cool on scorching climbs and warm on the chilly descents.

“All the seams have flatlock stitching to avoid chafing and are positioned behind the shoulders to avoid bag or bib straps rubbing while cycling,” Rapha adds.

Imperial Works Track Jacket, £180

“Based on the knitted track jackets often created for Italian cycling clubs, the Imperial Works Track Jacket is a made with a luxurious merino wool blend for complete comfort,” says Rapha.

It has a contrast lining for added insulation and two integrated hand pockets for keeping warm while on cooler outings.

Imperial Works Socks, £15

These socks are based on Rapha’s Merino socks, making use of merino’s natural sweat-wicking properties for temperature regulation across a wide range of weather conditions.

The fact that merino wool is naturally antibacterial should help these stay fresh.

Rapha has also given the socks a pre-wash treatment for reducing the chances of shrinkage.

Imperial Works Cap, £15

This has embroidered detailing across the brim and sides, while a tricolour stripe runs down the middle.

Available exclusively to RCC members, the new-all Rapha Cycling Club Imperial Works kit is on sale now.

Membership to the RCC costs £70 for the year. You can find the full list of benefits of joining here and you can join RCC over here.

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