Rapha’s launches its first gravity racer focused collection

Rapha has introduced its first MTB range for gravity riders and racers, with a name – Trail Finale – “inspired by the formidable trails of Finale Ligure.”

Whilst the brand launched its first MTB products in 2021, the Trail Finale designs are, in Rapha speak, “tuned for competition”. This translates to a collection which “features lightweight and hard-wearing apparel” specifically designed and developed for gravity rider-focused conditions”.

“Tuned for competition” also means the brand has worked with elite riders – Ella Conolly, Miranda Miller, Mariano Mari, and Megan Giblin – amongst the wear testers for the new range. Here, the brand points out that Trail Finale has been engineered with professionals to optimise performance.

Joel Natale, Chief Product Officer at Rapha, said: “Trail Finale is made for full speed riding in high-pressure conditions. An evolution of our original MTB designs, this is a durable performance range developed for the rigours of rugged trails – race apparel built to withstand a season, not a stage.”

New products include a windblock jersey, gloves, and pants and shorts that can be paired with the Trail Knee Pads and Trail Short Liners from the existing Rapha product range. The colours and logos have been revised for a bolder, more technical look, with the following key features:

Trail Finale  

• Weather protection: The Windblock Jersey is made with wind and splash protection panels to create the best jersey for changing conditions, ready for wet trails.
• Improved fit: This jersey sees upgrades based on rider feedback, with added coverage on the lower back, an improved collar and an adapted sleeve to suit gravity riding.
• Moisture management: MTB riding takes your body temperature from one extreme to another, so this jersey is made for the ups and the downs. The new Finale Windblock has a much lighter, breathable main fabric to provide airflow and avoid a sweaty back.

Trail Finale Pants and Shorts

• Locked in fit: Built on the success of the original Trail Pants and Shorts, the Finale versions have been updated to reduce flapping and with roomier knees to account for knee pads. The new waistband and closure system is light, easy to use, and positioned on the side to avoid any discomfort in riding position.
• Durability focus: Light yet durable, Cordura panels on the seat area and lower legs help to prevent fabric rip in key areas.
• Easy access storage: Like the originals, Finale Trail Pants and Shorts still feature hand pockets and side zip pockets specifically designed for on-bike use.

Trail Finale Gloves 

• Second skin feeling: No fuss, just grip. Made so you forget that you’re wearing them.
• Exceptional grip: A recycled suede fabric on the palm helps to grip handlebars in all weather conditions, avoiding sweaty palms.
• Made to last: Added Cordura material on the back of the hand to protect against rips from branches without compromise on breathability or weight.

The collection has been launched with a campaign featuring Scottish enduro racer Ella Conolly, who took her first win of the season at the Loudenvielle – Peyragudes Round of the UCI Enduro World Cup last weekend.