I had a whole post thought through on my most favorite bikes from the 1980’s and 1990’s and then I realized that I’ve been doing a lot of writing about the old days lately and it’s probably only interesting to me.
Instead, let’s talk about a product that a number of us here in the shop have been really excited about this winter—the Assos SJ.13 Luftschutz Jacket.
The feathery Luftschutz was hatched by the team in Lugano this fall. While it may look and feel like it, the Luftschutz is NOT waterproof and was not designed to be used in conditions more damp than a heavy fog. As I write this, I think back to the number of damp days this winter that I slipped the Luftschutz on for spin. For some reason, it’s tough to believe that it wouldn’t work in the rain and, yet, it really does not. So, please dispel yourself of that notion.
To that point, we’ve got to wonder why Assos doesn’t make the world’s best waterproof, breathable cycling jacket? Something on the level of the mega bomber Fugu Jak, but for wet weather? Perhaps because Assos only does what they want to do and nothing else. Little bit of inside baseball, but, like many companies in the bike industry, Assos isn’t governed by logic or a simple profit motive. It’s run by caprice and fueled by personal desire. So to expect a rational product offering from Switzerland is itself irrational. OK, we digress…..
The Luftschutz is actually the uber version of those unattractive and ineffective day-glo green jackets that you see herds of casual cyclists wearing. As such, it’s super thin, highly packable, crisply tailored, and puts a stop to a cool breeze with the efficiency of a good barrista during an 8:45AM rush.
Probably the most amazing aspect of the Luftschutz is its fit. No cycling jacket that I’ve ever laid my hands on fits so closely, yet doesn’t restrict movement.
Thanks to a snug, high collar and a thick placket tucked behind the zipper, the Luftschutz keeps cool air clear of your chest and throat. The cuffs are made from a silky material and fit so snugly around your wrist that there’s not much chance for air to slip into the sleeves, causing the entire jacket to bellow. On high speed descents, the Luftschutz stays stuck closely to your torso, flapping only slightly in the wind.
As with everything Assos, the Luftschutz costs more than similar items in the category. Yet, the fit and performance are simply off the charts in comparison to the typical day-glo windbreaker or even the ultra thin wind jackets from Pearl, Specialized and Castelli (which we’re betting are all made at the same factory in China).
So that’s the Luftschutz. We love it. You might too. Stop by and try one on if you’re in the neighborhood.
Before we part, we’d like to remind you that, Cadel may be wiry, but he’s tough.
Smackdown #1
Smackdown #2
Smackdown #3
In the past, we’ve found it best to sing a little song to keep his nerves placid. Cadel Song
