Rapha adds Cargo shorts to Core range

Rapha has added men's and women's Cargo Shorts with pockets to its Core range of clothing.

Rapha introduced Cargo Bib Shorts into its Explore range last year, the unusual feature being pockets on the side and back for carrying essentials. These are designed for any adventure riders who don't want to wear a traditional cycling jersey with pockets, or for anyone who want to wear a looser-fitting T-shirt while riding.

Read our review of Rapha Cargo Bib Shorts

Now Cargo shorts have been added to the Core range which Rapha says "is positioned to strike a balance between comfort, performance and value and allow more cyclists to access the Rapha brand". There are Core Cargo Bib Shorts for men and Core Cargo Shorts (without a bib section) for both men and women. 

"Equipped with the same sturdy mesh pockets as their Explore cousins, [these] shorts give you the capacity to take all the essentials you need and the freedom to wear whatever you like up top," says Rapha. "The shape and construction of the pockets has been tested extensively to ensure contents remain safely stowed for the duration of your ride, whether you’re on the way to work or crossing a continent."

In his review of the Explore Cargo Bib Shorts, Dave Arthur said that the two rear pockets have space for an inner tube, pump, phone and some energy bars with more to spare. He said that the pockets don't move about on your back and the contents are held securely in place. He found that the two mesh pockets on the legs worked really well for giving you quick access to energy bars, a Brevet card, phone or camera, or for stashing bits of clothing like a pair of gloves or cap. 

"Our trio of new shorts – the Core Cargo Bib Shorts, Core Cargo Shorts and Women’s Cargo Shorts – are all made from a supportive, dense-knit fabric for comfort and durability," says Rapha. 

"Each features a new, simpler design around the waist, reducing seams to allow for a more comfortable fit. The Core Cargo Bib straps are made from a lightweight, breathable fabric that will stretch to accommodate riders of all heights and help regulate body temperature in warmer conditions.

"All three feature an expandable mesh pocket on each leg and the Core Cargo Bib Shorts have two rear pockets that sit out of sight under a t-shirt and conveniently above the waist line when worn with a pair of looser fitting shorts on top. All pockets feature a reinforced top seam to keep items secure on ride after ride."

The shorts are made with a low-profile laser-cut leg gripper and flat-locked seams to prevent chafing. The men's shorts feature the existing Classic chamois seatpad while the women's shorts have a new pad.

The Core Cargo Bib Shorts are priced £110 while the Core Cargo Shorts and Women's Core Cargo Shorts are both £95.

The new shorts are the flagship product of the new Core range which also includes an updated Core Jersey for men and women (jersey prices start at £60), as well as children’s sizes for the first time.

The range also contains a Core Jersey II, £60...

...and a Core Rain Jacket II, £100

For more info go to www.rapha.cc