The Radavist

The last time I visited the Los Angeles-based cycling apparel brand SWRVE‘s shop, they had just relocated and had big plans to expand their floorplan to include a storefront. Last week, before skipping town, I headed over to check out their newly-opened retail space. For a brand like SWRVE, most of their sales are online, so a retail space wasn’t of the highest priority. But they wanted the city of Los Angeles to have a place where customers could come try on the clothing and actually touch the product before committing to buy.

I don’t need to explain any further the merits of buying from a store, versus buying online, so I’ll let the photos do the talking…

Click on the above photo to launch the gallery, or here to open in a new tab.

The amount of minimally-branded, high performance, made in the USA cycling jerseys are on the rise. Companies know that people don’t always want to look like moving billboards when they ride and that black is a good, safe tone for a kit. Since I first talked to the guys at Search and State, I knew their S1-A riding jersey would be a smash hit.

Why? For starters, they’re hand made in NYC from a two-toned quick dry microbial fabric. This material has a nice feel to it, is sleek and is milled in the USA. All that aside, these jerseys are durable and quick drying, two essential qualities for a jersey you’ll want to wear just about every day. I’ve put it through the ringer over the past few months and it’s become a staple, alongside my other jerseys. Add in sun sleeves, a merino wool base layer and you’re good to go, even in warm conditions.

Click on the above photo to launch the gallery, or here to open in a new tab.

How about a nice change of pace? Let’s leave NAHBS for a second and travel to OZ. Melbourne is a cyclist’s haven for rich, vibrant culture and South Yarra seems to be the epicenter. You’ve got Shifter Bikes, FYXO Hub and Northside Wheelers all in the same area, running completely different businesses and yet, they’re all contributing to the greater good. With big-brand concept stores everywhere, it’s hard to find a shop that shows cycling history and sells part of the insignia that goes along with it.

The golden age of cycling is still alive, but in small circles. Northside Wheelers is a shop that sells cycling apparel and goods. Think of it as a clothing shop for the bike fanatic in your life. From Creux to Rapha, books, magazines, goods and even some vintage apparel, Malachi Moxon over at Northside Wheelers has everything you need to get you styled out for a ride.

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