With the Espresso range, Castelli offers a set consisting of lightweight and versatile shorts and jersey, particularly pleasant in hot weather. An outfit with breathable and stretchy fabrics that offer a fitted cut while being suitable for many sizes.
By Guillaume Judas – Photos: ©3bikes.fr / ©Vincent Lyky
At Castelli, as with most competing brands, a vast collection sometimes complicates the choice of potential buyers with specificities that are sometimes not easy to understand, particularly in terms of cut or temperature. The Italian brand is no exception to the rule, with high-end jerseys designed for breathability in high heat such as the Climber, for aerodynamics like the Aero Race, or with a super light fabric like the Superlight for example. Not to mention more accessible models like the Entrata. And we are only talking about a small part of the range here. The same is obviously true for the shorts.
However, The new Espresso collection stands out for its versatility, with lightweight and stretchy fabrics, well-fitting but not bulky, and what's more with many color options (11 for the jersey and 8 for the shorts). Recommended for riding in temperatures from 18 to 35°C, the Espresso outfit is without a doubt THE essential outfit to have from Castelli, for all the reasons mentioned above. Personally, I even found that it was the most comfortable in my wardrobe in high heat.
Simple and efficient
The Castelli Espresso bib shorts benefit from a brand new fabric from Castelli, called Doppio, which offers a second skin feeling while always remaining perfectly adjusted, but without giving the same compression sensations as the shorts Free Aero RC for example. The very thin mesh straps ensure breathability and easy layering with a jersey and/or underwear, without creating excess thickness. The Progetto X2 Air insert is the brand's highest-end, and it is extremely comfortable without being too thick. Vertical silicone strips hold the shorts at the bottom of the thighs, without causing any discomfort. A pocket at the back at the lower back and reflective elements at the back of the legs complete the product's features.
=> Buy the Castelli Espresso bib shorts for €109,99 instead of €149,95
The Espresso jersey is designed with a fabric called Air_O Stretch, thin, light, breathable, and stretchy so that it fits perfectly to the shape of the bust without tightening or restricting movement. A fabric that may seem transparent, but which filters 97% of UV rays according to Castelli. In line with current fashion, the sleeves are long and with a raw cut (without elastic) that fits perfectly on the arms. The zipper of the jersey is handled smoothly, and with one hand if necessary, for example to adjust the ventilation during long climbs. The zipper pull is easy to grab with a truly high-end look. At the back, there are three fairly deep pockets and an additional zipped pocket, to slip in keys or change. Finally, an elastic band at the back on the bottom of the jersey keeps it in place, even when bent over on the bike. For this outfit, I chose my usual size at Castelli, which is S. When I put the jersey on, I had the feeling of having a little margin, thanks to the flexibility of the fabric. But in the end, it fits perfectly and causes almost no creases.
=> Buy the Castelli Espresso jersey for €101,99 instead of €119,95
An ideal summer outfit
The Castelli Espresso outfit provides comfort and breathability in many situations, and under a wide range of temperatures. When the thermometer struggles to exceed 20°C, I had to adjust the outfit with a light underwear under the jersey to not shiver at the start of the rides, which did not cause any discomfort, either at the level of the straps of the shorts or the fabric of the jersey. But It was especially in the very hot weather that I appreciated the set., with a jersey that manages excess moisture very well, drying very quickly after intense effort, and providing the necessary ventilation to avoid feeling overheated in direct sunlight. I also found that the depth of the pockets ensured better retention of their contents than other jerseys from the brand.
As for the shorts, the hips are slightly less supported than with the Free Aero Race, and the insert tends to move a little during intense efforts in the speed-seeking position. But it remains comfortable, and never restrictive, especially at the thighs where it does not cause folds without being too tight, and at the torso, where the thin and elastic straps are completely forgotten.
Overall, this Espresso set is a real success, both in terms of comfort and finish.. And even if the outfit testée presents rather classic colors, the number of colors available is a real asset for those who want to sport a look that is both sober and modern. The price of the outfit remains in the upper average range, but the versatility and comfort largely justify it..
The shorts and the jersey CASTELLI ESPRESSO in short… The pros: lightness, comfort, fit, number of colors available Jersey : Castelli-designed Air_O Stretch fabric – Fabric optimized for breathability and aerodynamics – Raw-edge sleeve ends – Three back pockets with a fourth zippered security pocket for valuables – Full-length YKK® Vislon® zipper with easy-to-use puller – Elastic waistband with silicone to keep the jersey in place – Reflective tape for increased visibility – 11 colors – Sizes: XS to 3XL – Price: € 119,95 Shorts: Espresso Doppio fabric designed by Castelli – Raw-edge leg bottoms with silicone gripper – Stretch mesh suspenders – Back pocket – Progetto X2 Air Seamless chamois – Reflective stripes – 8 colours – Sizes: XS to 3XL – Price: € 149,95 Contact : castelli-cycling.com |
