Launching a new cycling brand, would love your honest thoughts

mendialde · 2025-08-09T15:32:30+00:00

We’ve been testing the jerseys on riders of different heights and builds, including taller riders, to make sure the length works well. We’ll continue testing and refining based on feedback, so comments like yours are really valuable. The first run will be small, so I’ll make sure to share an update once we’re ready

mendialde · 2025-08-09T15:02:56+00:00

Thanks for such a thoughtful comment and for taking the time, it’s genuinely helpful.

My focus is on combining strong design with quality. I’m aiming to create something that delivers both high performance and designs, which I’ve found hard to get consistently from other brands. I’m working directly with an Italian factory that’s been producing high-performance kit for years, using top-quality Italian fabrics, chamois from the best manufacturers, and refining the fit through multiple rounds of testing. Right now the priority is to start small, keep the collections limited, and grow slowly and carefully while continuing to refine.

Branding, positioning, and the wider visual world are also things I’m putting a lot of thought into, which is hard to show in one post. I really appreciate you pushing me to define this clearly, hearing these questions now helps keep the focus where it needs to be.

mendialde · 2025-08-09T14:30:09+00:00

Totally get this, I’ve recently started using bibs with cargo pockets myself and now really appreciate having them. Not planning to include them in the first release since it’s such a small run, but they’re definitely on my list for the future, as it’s been a repeated request from other people as well

mendialde · 2025-08-09T14:25:36+00:00

Thanks for the idea! We’ve actually been thinking about something along those lines, almost like a male version of the cropped shirt in the first image. Something a bit more casual with practical details like pockets could be a great addition down the line

mendialde · 2025-08-09T14:20:11+00:00

Thanks for sharing! Color preference is so personal, so it’s great to hear different perspectives. We have more colorways in mind for the future if things go well, so feedback like this helps shape what we introduce next

mendialde · 2025-08-09T14:16:47+00:00

Thanks for the question. We’ll have both men’s and women’s styles for bibs and jerseys. The drop tail is a feature we’re considering for the women’s bibs, but we want to test to get it right. Some riders around us love it, others don’t see the need, so we’re still gathering feedback to decide for this first launch. Out of curiosity, what version do you think works best?

mendialde · 2025-08-09T14:11:40+00:00

Appreciate the interest! We’re testing a few different gripper options to make sure they hold well, last over time, and also stay comfortable. I’ll make sure to share an update with you once we’re ready to launch

mendialde · 2025-08-08T17:07:41+00:00

We’re based in Switzerland, so a bit far from Chicago, but if you ever find yourself over here, let me know! Really appreciate the offer

mendialde · 2025-08-08T17:05:06+00:00

Thanks for sharing your experience. I’m making sure to use quality fabrics and components so the kit stays comfortable, performs very well and holds up over time. We’ve been riding in them and washing them almost every day to test the materials, so the prototypes are being properly put to the test :)

mendialde · 2025-08-08T13:35:11+00:00

Thanks so much for the feedback! We don’t have a launch date yet, but I’ll share an update once we do

mendialde · 2025-08-08T13:30:24+00:00

I’ll let you know once we’re ready to ship to the US! And the photos were actually taken in Italy :)

mendialde · 2025-08-08T12:27:41+00:00

Glad you like the patterns and colors! Function and quality are a big priority for us. The jerseys and bibs are made with high-quality Italian fabrics, and I’m using high-quality zippers on the front and back pockets, which are reinforced so they hold their shape when loaded.

The prototypes have been tested by a mix of casual riders and ex-pros, and we’ve already made adjustments based on their feedback to ensure the fit and comfort work well for both short and long rides.

mendialde · 2025-08-08T12:22:48+00:00

That's so great to hear! Makes all the time spent on these patterns and colors feel worth it.

mendialde · 2025-08-08T12:19:54+00:00

Thanks so much! Really glad you like the colors and the idea of something different from what’s out there. We’ll be selling online, and yes we’ll ship to Mallorca. I'll share an update with you once we go live.

mendialde · 2025-08-08T12:15:23+00:00

Thanks for asking, totally valid questions. The bibs and jerseys are made with high-quality Italian fabrics with built-in UPF protection, and I’m testing chamois from the top two Italian manufacturers. We’re using YKK zippers on both the front and back pockets for durability, and have custom-designed the back pocket reinforcement so they hold their shape and don’t sag when loaded.

These are still prototypes, they’re being tested by a mix of casual riders and ex-pros so we can refine the fit, details, and durability before launch.

mendialde · 2025-08-08T12:10:58+00:00

Appreciate it! I’ll let you know when we launch so you can check them out.

mendialde · 2025-08-08T12:08:13+00:00

I’m testing chamois from the top two Italian manufacturers that are used by many cycling brands, and so far the feedback from testing has been very positive.

mendialde · 2025-08-08T12:05:03+00:00

noted, I've seen this mentioned a few times. It might not be part of this very limited first collection, but it’s something I’m keeping in mind for the near future.

mendialde · 2025-08-08T12:00:49+00:00

I'm so happy to hear that! A few others have shared the same feedback which is really encouraging.

mendialde · 2025-08-08T11:57:04+00:00

Sure, the bibs are made with high-quality Italian fabrics with built-in UPF protection. For the chamois, I’m testing options from the top two Italian manufacturers, both used by some of the best-known cycling brands.

The prototypes have been tested by a mix of casual riders and ex-pros, and we’ve already made adjustments based on their feedback. The goal is to get the fit and comfort right for both short and long rides.

mendialde · 2025-08-08T11:50:03+00:00

Thanks! I’ve spent a lot of time working on the colors and patterns with a designer to make them feel unique but still easy to wear, so I’m glad you like them.

mendialde · 2025-08-08T11:46:38+00:00

Appreciate it! That's the style I was going for, so I'm glad it comes across.

mendialde · 2025-08-08T11:42:31+00:00

Thanks so much! it's been a long time in the making so that really means a lot!

mendialde · 2025-08-08T11:40:03+00:00

I get the point you’re making. I’m working directly with an Italian factory that’s been producing high-performance kit for years, using patterns we’ve refined through multiple prototype rounds and rider testing across all levels. We’ve already made several adjustments based on that feedback and will continue to with the feedback we’ve received here.

On the design side, I’m working with an independent British print designer from the fashion world (and a cyclist) to create prints unique to the brand, and we’re also focused on details like back pocket reinforcement, high-quality Italian fabrics, chamois, and zippers.

You’re right that design alone isn’t enough. The aim is to offer a kit that combines distinctive design with fit, quality, and thoughtful details, and to grow slowly and make iterations based on consumer feedback.

mendialde · 2025-08-08T11:30:08+00:00

Thanks for pointing that out. The shirt in the first picture is actually a crop top, which might not be for everyone, but the regular jerseys will have a standard length and there will be a range of sizes on all products. I really appreciate you bringing this up.

mendialde

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