Product Review by PBE Squad member, Katelyn Repash
Katelyn here to talk about the great Pactimo kit that the Squad is riding in for 2023! Despite my closet full of kit, this was my first experience with Pactimo’s custom kit and it has quickly become my favorite line! I’ve taken the Ascent Vector Range Bibshort, Ascent Jersey, Trail Jersey, Breckenridge Vest, and Breckenridge Jacket out riding already (thank you, Spring weather) and have been really appreciating the consistent fit and detailed features of each item.
First up for a ride was the Ascent Jersey + Bibs, and it was a chilly morning ride so I grabbed my Breckenridge Jacket. These pieces are durable and the design Oluwafemi printed beautifully, and the kit features some incredible details that really seal the deal for me. The Ascent Jersey features small reflective accents, which I also noticed on the jacket and vest – great for a little extra visibility in low-light conditions on the road. The jerseys have three roomy back pockets and a zipper pocket, a comfortable tapered collar. The bibs feature a cargo pocket, comfortable wide elastic bands on the leg cuff, and a chamois that I can comfortably ride 5+ hours in. On the Breckenridge Jacket, I really appreciate the wicking mesh on the back for breathability – I look forward to making this a three-season jacket with the windproof front and breathable back. When I left for my ride it was about 50 degrees and once temperatures reached 60, I shed the jacket and stowed it in my jersey pocket easily.
The following weekend, I went out for a gravel ride with some friends and decided to test out the Trail Jersey, it was a little warmer in the morning (but can get chilly in the shade or by the river) so I opted for the Breckenridge Vest this time. The Trail Jersey maintains the same lightweight breathability of the road jersey but with a looser fit – perfect for a day on the trails. I think the vest is my absolute favorite from this order, it features the same breathable back as the Breckenridge Vest and is very packable. I can’t wait to bring it out for everything from Spring road training rides to Fall gravel races and Winter hill workouts.
Overall, one of the most impressive aspects of the entire line of custom kit has been the reliable sizing across different pieces. I struggle with kit fit from a lot of companies – often being one size in jerseys and another size in jackets/vests and a totally different size in trail jerseys, so it was great to order everything in the same size for my kit closet and have it all fit so well. I really appreciate being able to order kit with the confidence that it will fit well, and I’m planning out a few thermal Pactimo items to upgrade my Winter riding gear for the off season.
The Philly Bike Expo team store is open through Friday, May 26th at 12PM if you’d like to get your hands on this kit!