Just before the 2017 Cyclocross World Championships, Cyclocross Magazine's contributor Hannah Caproon attended the 2017 Winter Press Camp to check out new gear from two dozen brands that might be of interest to our cyclocross and gravel-riding audience. First up is Panache Cyclewear, one of 13-time National Champion Katie Compton's sponsors. While Caproon didn't get to see or try on Compton's lucky 13th stars and stripes jersey, she did check out some casual and serious cycling gear.
Panache Cyclewear specializes in small-batch manufacturing and sells its cycling apparel direct to consumers, but has recently begun selling through REI's flagship stores as REI grows their bicycle-related expertise.
The company's runs usually consist of 20-200 pieces, so if it bugs you to be wearing the same thing as another cyclist out on the gravel path, it's rare that you'll run into anyone with the same Panache gear as you.
This year the company has made some changes in manufacturing that will improve custom team-order turn around times by two to three weeks. It is also shifting its team ordering minimum from 50 pieces to $1,500, with no minimums on re-orders.
As with a lot of companies at Press Camp, Panache is targeting the gravel and adventure riding scene. Panache's Rowdy Collection, an ideal name from a company that features "Tuesday Throwdowns" and "Thursday Rowdy Rides" from its Boulder, Colorado office, is an aesthetically and functionally thoughtful line, and I had a chance to take a look at some of the new items.
The Rowdy Shell Short is a crossover between mountain short and roadie style points. Winter Press Camp 2017 © Cyclocross Magazine
Nods to mountain bike functionality and road racing performance are obvious throughout, from strategically-placed 4-way stretch material, to mid-depth side pockets. The Men's Rowdy Collection launches on March 30, with development of a Women's Rowdy line coming soon after.
The VTR bib is a fun take on traditional bibs, with suspenders and side leg pockets. Winter Press Camp 2017 © Cyclocross Magazine
For cyclists in the Boulder area, Panache has some events planned in your area in the coming year, so stay tuned.
Have a look at the full gallery of new Panache items from Press Camp below:
More info: panachecyclewear.com
2017 Panache Cyclewear Collection Highlights Photo Gallery:
One rear pocket, maybe more for style than functionality. Winter Press Camp 2017 © Cyclocross Magazine
