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While many of us participate in running races, Andrew competes in a variety of competitive cycling races in the Pacific Northwest.
Gorewear recently released a new line of Gore-Tex gear named Lupra, and I have to admit I don’t feel worthy.
Lupra 2.0 GTX Hooded Jacket
- Main Design Features: Over the helmet hood, adjustable cords on hood and waist, lightweight and packable, 100% recycled materials, reflective details, zippered pockets, GORE-TEX ePE waterproof protection
Lupra GTX Pants
- Main Design Features: Grip elastic waist, lightweight and packable, 100% recycled materials, reflective details, waistband draw cord, zippered pocket, GORE-TEX ePE waterproof protection
The pants are spacious and meant to be worn over a base layer like leggings or riding shorts or even jeans, but there is no chamois, so you’ll definitely want a cushion under these. They have a short zipper and snap buttons at the ankles so you can choose a loose or snug fit. I found the buttons keep the ankle cuff tight enough to stop a majority of water or excess spray from seeping up my legs.
The waistband is very soft and stretchy but also has a rubber texture and draw string so you can get them fit to not be concerning even when out of the saddle. There is one zippered pocket on these and it’s only big enough to hold a phone and a small snack, but not much else. Then again, having stuff flopping around in my pockets when I’m riding isn’t particularly enjoyable so lack of pockets on these is no biggie.
The pants have proven to be a great utility for some really dreary days, but the jacket combines utility and luxury. It’s just, really nice to look at. I don’t know if it’s the color (this is Engine Green), or the minimal seams, or the thoughtful reflective elements, or everything combined but it’s simple and clean and totally capable. You almost feel bad taking it out on those grungy days, but then of course really glad you did.
Like the pants, it’s an outer layer meant to protect what’s underneath. Made from recycled materials, fully waterproof, and impossibly lightweight this jacket and pants combo is ready for some big days. At only about 17oz combined, these pack effortlessly into a backpack, or into their own stowaway pocket. I have found that the jacket can be stuffed easily into a jersey pocket no problem.
The fit is loose enough to be able to wear any base layer, even a puffy jacket without feeling like a parachute. And while roomy, it does have many pull points to make it fit tightly where needed. It has pull strings for the hood that can fit over a helmet, hook and loop bands at the wrist, a chest zipper that comes up just comfortably on the chin, and a draw string around the waist.
It has two zippered pockets that are big enough to fit your hands like a hoodie so you can huddle in tight in those early morning race registration lines, or when you’re waiting for your buddy to finally get his bike loaded on the roof rack. Did I already mention that it’s such a good-looking piece of cycling gear? Because yea.
So back to my earlier statement… I don’t feel worthy to wear these! Sure my morning commutes may be soggy and the local gravel sections occasionally muddy that is just scratching the surface of what these can handle. I haven’t taken them on any MTB black diamond runs, or a 300 mile bikepacking adventure, but I guess that’s the exciting part knowing that when those opportunities come up, they will be there looking good and waiting to tackle the worst conditions I can find.
