Review: Après Vélo Casual Apparel

The name of this blog gives an indication of what cycling culture is about; 'Life In The Saddle' is not just enjoying the culture of cycling whilst you're on the bike, but also when you are away from the bike, in a casual environment.

Part of that culture is the clothes you wear, the coffee you drink and the places you visit. Après Vélo is all about the first of these; providing cycling casual wear that identifies and shows you as a cyclist in a cool and comfortable way.

The Australian brand produces a wide range of casual tees, as well as hoodies and some select riding apparel. All of the range has a classic and unique style; kit that will make you stand out, whilst also being comfortable and well made.

In this review I take a look at the Le Tournesol tee: a new top that is made to commemorate this year's version of Le Tour.

The tee features a collage of the roads that the riders face on this year's edition of the race; cobbled roads, fields of sunflowers, picturesque mountain roads and of course the finale on the Champs-Élysées. The route of this year's edition has caused a lot of discussion and certainly a lot of excitement, I think this tee is just what you need to commemorate the iconic route.

As with a lot of kit, it is the little details and high quality that usually win products over for me. The Le Tournesol tee certainly has some cool details; the La Grande Boucle (the French name for sunflowers and the nickname for the yellow jersey) features through a neat badge on the sleeve. The fabric is a 100% cotton, with a stonewashed finish, to make it look like a "classic" tee. Even the V-neck is a unique style, which adds a touch of class to this top.

In terms of fit, I opted for a size small (I'm a 37 inch chest), and the fit is really good; with a tailored cycling style cut.

The tee is washing well too, and continues to look great.

From the classy packaging to the neat looks, this is a top that will be worn well after Le Tour I think, and sets a really good impression of the Après Vélo brand.

Check out their range at AprèsVélo.com
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