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Summertime Chic a Loeka Summer Gear Review -by Virginia Smith I was given an opportunity to try out Loeka’s capris and commuter jacket earlier this year, click here to read the review. I was quite taken with both the style and performance of their clothing during my winter commute here in Sacramento. I have been given another opportunity to test out their shorts and a jersey for my summer riding. Loeka Tech Shorts in Pinstripe
I ordered the tech shorts in a very cool pinstripe pattern. They are essentially the same as the capris, just shorter! The fabric has a smoother feel (like brushed cotton rather than the more canvas-like feel of the capris), and still has the same great waterproofing. That being said, the fabric doesn’t appear to be as sturdy as the brown fabric of the capris, but appearances can be deceiving - the shorts displayed the same high-quality construction and attention to detail as the capris. The shorts were just as comfortable as the capris and held up very well on my lunch-time rides, but I did wear a chamois liner underneath. The chamois is optional, but I’m just not comfortable riding without it. I really liked the pinstripes, as did some of my coworkers. However, not all of them were comfortable with the stripes, but they are generally more conservative in dress and outlook! I also selected the GI Jane half-sleeve jersey, and I love the colors. I’m not normally one for wearing pink, but it is a nice combination that gives a definite feminine touch to the army-inspired olive drab. There was no disagreement on this one at work…everyone really liked the stylishness. However, there were a few misgivings about the lack of back pockets to hold things while riding, and I was among the biggest skeptics. GI Jane Half Sleeve Jersey The jersey fit very nicely. My initial reaction was that I couldn’t possibly ride without back pockets in a jersey, but once I outfitted my bike with a ‘bento box’ to carry my cell phone and gels that became a non-issue. It is very ‘freeing’ not to have added weight on my back. It’s the perfect jersey for any ride that doesn’t require quick access to nutrition bars/gels, a cell phone, or tools to fix a flat. I still can’t imagine going on longer training-type rides without jersey pockets, so this jersey will remain my lunch-time and casual riding jersey of choice. Although not suitable for my longer rides, I would feel comfortable commuting or meeting friends for coffee or lunch at a casual restaurant (especially one with outdoor seating) dressed in Loeka. Sacramento is the perfect place for the Loeka line of clothing due to its growing population of young, urban cyclists who use their bikes to commute, run errands, and meet up with friends.
All in all I would not hesitate for one second to recommend the Loeka clothing line to anyone looking for fashionable, comfortable, well made and priced right clothing to complete their cycling wardrobe. |
