Kitsbow Superflow Cooling Tee – Great Breathability
Kitsbow Superflow Cooling Tee – Great Breathability
Jace Jackson
Kitsbow has been making some huge moves in the cycling apparel industry lately, and they have made a name for themselves as a leader in premium cycling apparel. I was excited to get my hands on one of their new Superflow Cooling Tees to wear on hot rides this summer. My expectations were high, and this top certainly did not disappoint…
Kitsbow Superflow Cooling Tee Engearment
Kitsbow Superflow Initial Impressions:
As a company, Kitsbow’s model is impressive – Every product from them is made to order and sewn in the USA. Doing things this way virtually eliminates wasted inventory, which makes Kitsbow leaps and bounds more environmentally friendly than much of their competition. Not only is this a big sustainability win, but the made-to-order model also allows them to offer an exceptionally wide variety of sizes (XXS—4XL in this specific top). You can read more about their efforts to “include every body in cycling” here.
Kitsbow’s bespoke craftsmanship and attention to detail was immediately evident upon receiving my Superflow Tee. Premium fabrics, flawless stitching, and a thoughtfully tailored fit were some of my first impressions of this piece.
Fit and Sizing
The fit of the Kitsbow Superflow Tee is a refreshing change-up from the typical MTB apparel. I’m used to my MTB tops fitting like a boxy T-shirt, but the Superflow offers a very tailored and ergonomic feel. There are several well-placed panels on the arms that offer unrestricted movement, despite the trimmer fit. Taller riders will be stoked to know that there is more than enough length to keep you covered in the saddle.
Kitsbow Superflow Cooling Tee Engearment
There are many who will probably find that this top runs almost a full size small (looking at you, my barrel-chested brethren). I am typically between an XL and 2XL in most other cycling apparel brands, but I needed to size up to a 3XL in this top – and I promise it wasn’t from all the tacos I ate last week. If you order your usual size, expect it to be fairly form-fitting.
Functionality
The innovative new Delta™ fabric by Polartec® used in this top is unlike anything I’ve seen in cycling apparel. It is extremely lightweight and buttery to the touch, while also feeling robust enough to handle the rigors of long days on the trail. The fabric is perforated with tiny holes for breathability, giving it an almost mesh-like quality, without being see through. This allows air to pass through and create an air-conditioning effect while riding. The “air conditioning” part sounded like marketing jargon before I tried it – but I was surprised by how well it actually works!
Kitsbow Superflow Cooling Tee Engearment
It’s worth noting (for the heavy perspirators out there) that due to the insanely good moisture wicking qualities of this fabric, the lighter colors will show sweat more than the average fabric. But not to worry, this top also dries out much more quickly than most other polyester fabrics too.
This has quickly become my go-to jersey for hot late-summer rides, but I’m confident it will hold its own as the mercury drops this fall too.
Kitsbow Superflow Cooling Tee Engearment
Durability
So far, I’ve yet to experience any durability concerns with this top. The raglan-style sleeves feature a more robust fabric that will be much more abrasion resistant to brushes with trees and rocks than the Delta™ fabric by Polartec® that is used on the main body. The Delta™ fabric is much more thin and delicate feeling, but that is a trade-off I’m wiling to make for a jersey that is so incredibly breathable.
Final Thoughts
The Kitsbow Superflow Cooling Tee will be a great addition to the jersey quiver for anyone looking for a sharp, well-fitting cycling top that can perform on a long, hot ride but will be equally at home when you go out for beers after. Those who spend a lot of time riding in desert environments like Moab or Fruita will enjoy the benefits of the highly breathable Polartec® Delta™ fabric.
I can also see this being a valuable piece for bike commuters who need something that can perform on the ride in, without making them look like Lance Armstrong when they get to the office. Lastly, if you’ve always found yourself outside the traditional size chart for cycling apparel (on one side or the other), Kitsbow has you covered!
Jace Jackson
Jace is a third-generation Coloradan, raised in the foothills of Evergreen. He fell in love with the outdoors at a young age, summiting his first 14er at 8 years old. He studied business at the University of Denver, where he was an All-American Rugby player.
He lives to play in the mountains with his wife, Taylor, and their super-mutt Samson. You can find them (usually together) playing on Colorado’s high peaks… Backpacking, mountaineering, snowboarding (split and solid), trail running, and mountain biking — these are a few of their favorite things.
He has an affinity for high-quality gear, but he’s not afraid to use it and is notorious for testing his equipment to its fullest potential.
