Assos Trail Collection Launched
Focus of the new Assos Trail collection is on comfort for extended days in the saddle but without a lot of unnecessary extras getting in the way.
Long identified largely with road cycling, Swiss cycling apparel maker Assos is furthering its foray into mountain bike clothing with a new Trail line that includes shorts, jerseys, liners, gloves, and protective accessories.
Available for spring/summer of 2019, the Assos Trail collection will leverage the company’s reputation for stylish lightweight, comfortable, and durable gear, as suitable for all-day epics or hour-long after-work romps. Both men’s and women’s sizing will be offered in the Assos Trail collection.
Fit of the Assos Trail pieces is looser and fabric thicker than their XC line, which was announced in July. But the new kitis comparatively minimalist when compared to the majority of mountain bike wear. The Assos Trail Cargo Shorts have two zippered thigh pockets and the waistband is simple elastic — no loops, buckles or tabs.
“With the Assos Trail Collection we wanted to focus on the most comfort for extended days in the saddle but without a lot of unnecessary extras getting in the way that didn’t really aid the riding,” said Chris MacKay, Assos global brand and digital marketing manager.
The new Assos Trail line is aimed at riders in the 120mm-140mm suspension category, including Assos road loyalists transitioning to mountain biking, and general outdoor sports who are being lured by the growing popularity of off-road riding. “It’s the biggest demographic of bikes being purchased right now,” MacKay said.
It doesn’t hurt that Switzerland is home to the two biggest names in mountain bike cross-country racing, Nino Schurter and Jolanda Neff. All seven of Schurter’s world championships have come while wearing Assos apparel.
Assos is also is working on a burlier line for enduro and bike park. Given its strong road identity, the company expects a gradual uptick with the aim of 30 percent of its sales coming from mountain biking within the next five years, MacKay said.
Assos Trail Collection Rundown
Liner Shorts ($139): Cushy without feeling bulky, the liner pad can handle the rigors of day-long rides without getting damp or saggy. It will include thigh compartments where padded inserts can be added for impact protection.
Cargo Shorts ($149): Four-way stretch fabric and a no-buckle, no-tab elastic waistband to maximize comfort for hot summer days and year-round riding with a minimalist look Thigh pockets on either side are zippered for security.
Trail Jersey ($119 SS, $149 LS): Just loose enough to provide a contoured, good-looking fit while maintaining Assos’ legendary comfort, the jersey is highlighted with bi-stretch 3-Mesh underarms for cooling. The long-sleeve version also contains proprietary dyneRope textile, reinforced on the forearms for added protection.
FF Gloves ($79): A flexible cuff contours the wrist, providing optimum comfort, and fingertips are double-layered for protection. Palms feature a 3D Mesh, and perforated padding on top and around the thumb help damp vibration and provide ventilation.
Knee ($89) and Arm ($75) Protectors: These are form-fitting, lightweight add-ons for that extra bit of protection when trails get into blue and black-diamond territory.
To learn more, head to www.assos.com.
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