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ana nichoola curve jacket - gem atkinson

ana nichoola curve jacket

I have spent the last fortnight putting some commute miles wearing the unique creation that is the Ana Nichoola ÔCurveÕ Jacket.

The made to measure boutique riding jacket provides a sleek contemporary look to the commuter cyclist. Whilst the hefty £159 price tag may put many riders off, rest assured the jacket is hand crafted in the companyÕs North London base, and looks pretty natch both on and off the bike. Such is their ÔboutiqueÕ feel, the jacket can be found in stock at Harrods of all places, a true bastion of British style.

It's worth noting that, as well as running some excellent events to promote cycling amongst us ladies (events such as track sessions and night rides), Ana Nichoola also recently designed the rather fetching kit worn by ÔTeam Mule BarÕ girls.

The Curve jacket features a natty multi-panel construction, with two wide curved panels that wrap around the front of the rider. Snap buttons hold these respective panels in place, while underneath, a traditional full length zip can be found.

ana nichoola curve jacket

The fit swamped me a little, but this is likely down to two factors... I was sent a medium to test and i'm actually a UK size 8, so would probably require their smaller sized jacket, and secondly, it's not as racy or aero as the other jackets I am more used to. I'm sure this is entirely deliberate however, as the jacket isnÕt something I'd envisage would be suitable for full-on weekend club runs, but more for relaxed pootling across the city, or those more relaxed pace commutes. The sleeves were cut to an acceptable length, but could perhaps have been a little more generous. However they were finished with a very nice thick cuff, ensuring no cold air is going to creep in unannounced.

The style is superbly functional, utilising a waterproof polyester fabric in the construction, allowing it to endure quite a soaking (I managed to get caught in a light shower on a homeward commute, yet arrived back at Bianchista HQ, happily warm and dry). The seams are taped to ensure protection from the elements, while the fabric feels almost satin like and very soft to the touch, suprising given how robust it can be in the rain.

A useful stash pocket is placed on the front, ideal for keys or cash, while a slightly larger zippered pocket makes an appearance at the rear.

The Curve felt quite heavyweight when riding, and despite featuring a curved air vent the jacket felt well insulated. I think it would be the ideal garment for those chilly evenings, or the cooler of the four seasons and while not the ideal choice for summer, it would really come into its own during the cold winter months. With its nice tailored styling and pretty good looks, it lends itself to chilly commutes home via a visit to the pub with friends. The look of the jacket was enhanced not only by its rich red colour, but also the abundance of reflective piping along each sleeve. I felt highly visible and safe on those evening cycles, confident i'd be catching many a driver's eye (with the jacket that is-twmp).

ana nichoola curve jacket

It's not something I'd wear regularly (I prefer something cut a little racier and lighter), but I would heartily recommend it to those female commuters looking for a stylish, tailored jacket for ÔurbanÕ riding. Its appeal is in its versatility; the variety of situations in which it can be worn are numerous. I'd have no issues heading down to the local, or heading out and about, shopping on my single speed bike.

The Ana Nichoola Curve Jacket is available in Small to XL in red, royal blue, sky blue or black for £159 at ana nichoola

© gem atkinson 2010

twmp

posted thursday 20 may 2010

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