New L'Eroica 2025 collection: Santini presents jerseys, shorts and hoodies
Inspired by the classic designs of the 1950s and 1960s, the clothing line reflects the spirit of L'Eroica - an event that celebrates the tradition of cycling and in which participants compete on historic steel-framed bicycles in challenging challenges. Strade Bianche conquer Tuscany. The collection includes various jerseys, trousers, jackets and accessories designed for both classic cycling enthusiasts and modern cyclists who value style and functionality. According to Santini, the new line combines traditional craftsmanship with technological innovation to create garments that are visually reminiscent of the past while meeting the demands of modern cycling.
Design and materials
The colour palette includes classic shades such as bordeaux, navy blue and olive green, complemented by subtle accents in cream and black. The horizontal colour stripes, which are reminiscent of the team jerseys of past decades, are particularly characteristic. Despite the vintage look, modern materials are used in the production process. The jerseys are made from a technical polyester blend that effectively wicks moisture away from the body while remaining breathable. The shorts have a high-quality seat pad that has been specially developed for long rides on uneven surfaces - an important aspect for participants in L'Eroica events, who often spend several hours on gravel paths. Particular attention has been paid to the quality of workmanship, with carefully stitched seams and robust zips designed to ensure the longevity of the garments.
Product range and availability
At the heart of the range are the short-sleeved jerseys in various colours, which are complemented by long-sleeved versions for cooler days. There are also matching cycling shorts with and without bibs, lightweight windbreakers and a range of accessories such as gloves, socks and caps. All products bear the characteristic L'Eroica logo and special labels documenting the collaboration with Santini. Sizes range from XS to XXL, with all styles available in both men's and women's cuts. The collection will be available from October 2024 in the Santini online shop and at selected specialist retailers worldwide. The clothing line will also be on sale at all official L'Eroica events in Italy, the UK, Germany, South Africa, Japan and the USA. According to the manufacturer, the prices are in the mid to high-end segment, which reflects the use of high-quality materials and the elaborate production in Italy.
Sustainability and production philosophy
An important aspect of the new Santini x L'Eroica collection is the commitment to more sustainable production methods. Partially recycled materials are used to make the garments, and production takes place exclusively in Italy, which should ensure short transport routes and fair working conditions. Santini emphasises that local production not only offers ecological advantages, but also facilitates quality control and supports the artisanal tradition of the Italian textile industry. The collection's packaging is made from recyclable materials and the manufacturer has set up a take-back programme for old garments in order to extend the life cycle of the products. These measures reflect a growing trend in the cycling industry, where sustainability and environmental awareness are becoming increasingly important. The combination of traditional design and future-orientated production philosophy underlines Santini's approach of uniting the past and present of cycling.
The importance of L'Eroica for cycling
L'Eroica, which means "the heroic" in German, is more than just a cycling race - it is a tribute to the roots of cycling. The event was launched in Tuscany in 1997 and has since developed into a global phenomenon with many events on several continents. The special thing about L'Eroica is the rules: participants must start on bicycles built before 1987 and their clothing should also be as authentic as possible. The routes mainly run along the famous white gravel roads of Tuscany, the "Strade Bianche", which also lend their name to the professional race of the same name. The collaboration with Santini enables cycling fans to experience the spirit of L'Eroica without having to compromise on modern functionality. The collection is aimed at both active participants in the L'Eroica events and cyclists who appreciate the aesthetics of classic cycling. This co-operation preserves the tradition of the sport and at the same time makes it accessible to a wider audience.
