One shirt, four different fabrics. King Arthur never ceases to amaze. The set of the Romagna brand whose name is Trash, a name with a strong impact, is a kit that focuses on comfort but also on performance. And it surprised us with its comfort, both in the jersey and the shorts.
It was like having it on now a “compression suit”, now a veil that promotes movementLet's start with a curiosity: the Latin inscription “Per aspera ad astra”, whose translation is through the asperities to the stars.
"It's a quirk," explains owner Paolo Castellucci, "that I wanted to include on the jersey." And one that fits in well with the cyclist's philosophy, we might add.
Four fabrics
Let's start with the shirt, which, as previously mentioned, is made of four different fabrics. "Exactly," Castellucci continues. "The sleeves, front, back, and sides are different.
"The front is the most ventilated. It's a lightweight polyester, which they also use for the Giro d'Italia jerseys." This material promotes air exchange, but protects at the same time. This way, sweating is never excessive.
The back is made of carbon fiber, and this area also focuses on breathability, but in this case, it features a slightly tighter weave that provides significant protection from the sun. This all works without blocking the airflow that needs to enter and exit, thus preventing sweat from building up. The front and back are joined by the sides, which are made of a checkered mesh.
Finally, there are the sleeves, which are made of smooth, lightweight Lycra with integrated silicone. They have a very tight weave and are very thin: the result is... Tight-fitting, aerodynamic, and even fashionable sleeves... if you will. Sleeves are rightly the ones most exposed to the impact of the air. And it was necessary to work with a product that was effective in that particular area. But the rest of the jersey isn't as "flappy" as the old style. The chest and back are also snug, but just a touch less so. This greatly improves comfort. Even the use of the zipper, which is by no means secondary, especially for an amateur cyclist. Not everyone has the same level of skill on a bike.
Tight-fitting overalls
Let's move on to the bib shorts. The shorts are full-bodied: in every way. And in fact Castellucci confirms: «They are compression shorts. It's a unique cut with a glove effect. Really comfortable."
Still minimal in design, the fabric, as mentioned, is there and you can feel it. But when we say you can feel it, we don't mean heavy, but rather that it's snug. In short, the compression Castellucci mentioned is having an effect.
We really liked the internal silicone finish: very thin, it ensures that the cuff sits firmly on the thigh without squeezing or irritating the skin.
Another advantage the shoulder straps: wide and never tight on the shoulders. At the rear they start from a single base and then divide, like in the classic Y shapes. That base gives a certain stability to the entire shorts and after many hours in the saddle it is really pleasant.
Finally, there is the caseback: given modern standards, it is “a little high”, but we must admit that it has not proved to be either uncomfortable (on the contrary), nor that cumbersome.
Total customization
But starting from the example of the case back, we take this opportunity to remember that King Arthur allows you to completely personalize your garments, and therefore you can also opt for a different case back.
«I chose that case back – explains Castellucci – because it is ideal for medium distances, Three or four hours (which is actually the most common use among cycling enthusiasts, ed.) and not too expensive. A classic product. But there are also more premium options available. King Arthur, as with all its products, also allows you to customize this one».
The price for the Trash suit, new product, marketed since this summer, it is 100 euros: 50 for the shirt and 50 for the shorts. You will soon be able to see it on the new site of the Romagna house.
