There's a certain point where riding a bike becomes cycling, and that's where what's supposed to be a fun, leisure activity begins to come across as prescriptive; you must wear a jersey, your socks must not exceed this height. There are decades of tradition behind such conventions, but a younger generation of brands is leading the sport onto more open roads.
One of them is Melbourne, Australia-based MAAP, a design-minded cycling apparel brand that's no stranger to fast duds—check out its recent eyewear collaboration with 100%—but also makes a point to emphasize exploratory design. Recently, MAAP joined forces with NYC-based outerwear studio The Arrivals, which has its own unconventional approach to outdoor apparel, for a limited collection of cycling apparel that, fittingly, is all about adventure.
Dubbed Adventure Altered, the collab line is looser and less flashy than standard cycling attire. There's a pair of bibs of course, but they're equipped with cargo pockets. Then there's a long-sleeve that's cut as if for everyday wear but fully fit for riding, thanks to the Polartec Power Dry fabric it's made of. The Arrivals lends its Haelo packable jacket to the list as well (it does resemble a cyclist's musette when it's all packed up) and a lightweight cap and some riding socks complete the outfit. All are unisex and available in a desert-inspired pastel palette.
Adventure Altered is something of a continuation of MAAP's Alt_Road collection for gravel riding, a type of adventure cycling that favors dirt roads and trails over smooth pavement. In blurring the line somewhat between on- and off-bike apparel, the collaboration brings that spirit of exploration directly into the design itself.
Published 02-22-2022
