Forget about backpacks, brands are opting to carry hydration inside the jersey

Some cycling clothing brands have taken advantage of the Unbound Gravel showcase to present their particular solution to hydration backpacks. The designs of Castelli, Rule28, and Rapha integrate the hydration bag into the jerseys themselves to maximize performance. Currently, the Castelli Unlimited Pro Jersey is the only one available for sale.

Castelli, Rule28, and Rapha: jerseys with hydration bags are here

Cycling has a habit of constantly evolving. The wheel of novelties never stops turning, and now it's the turn of gravel and the particular characteristics of this discipline. The nature of gravel races often requires riders to cover long distances before being able to replenish their water reserves. This has led to hydration backpacks becoming common in the peloton, although now the cycling textile industry has set out to solve the inconveniences associated with this accessory.

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In the complex world of competition, any gain is welcome, and any inefficiency in design hinders the rider's chances. Hydration backpacks allow for carrying extra water and are a common formula among top-level gravel cyclists, but they also come with aerodynamic penalties and discomfort that have driven the search for alternatives.

Hydration bags integrated into jerseys eliminate the discomfort of carrying a more or less bulky lump on the back and some other difficulties typical of conventional hydration backpacks: restriction to pocket access, lower breathability and aerodynamics, bounce, or added weight.

First, Castelli was the first to announce a jersey with an integrated hydration bag. The Italian brand has named it Unlimited Pro Jersey and has focused on maintaining high levels of performance and aerodynamics. The hydration bag has a capacity of 1.5 liters and is made of a durable mesh with significant airflow to prevent moisture.

It also features attachment straps to secure the bag's tube when not in use. Additionally, the fabric used is the same as in the Aero 7 model, with the difference that a "texturized aerodynamic fabric" has been chosen for the perforated sleeves.

The Unlimited Pro Jersey is designed for professional use, available in seven sizes, three colors, and priced at 129.95 euros.

Secondly, Rule28 introduced the Gravel Suit, with a similar design featuring a back pocket also compatible with 1.5-liter hydration bags. The jersey is worn by riders like Danni Shrosbree and Dylan Johnson.

Finally, Rapha also made its bet with the Blaerosuit, a jersey with space for a 2-liter hydration bag and internal strap system to secure it while pedaling. The British brand has designed the tube to be securely housed and attached to either of the two shoulder panels, according to the cyclist's preference.

Rapha ensures that changing the bag is simple and can be done alone. The brand explains that the initial request for a solution to conventional hydration backpacks came from Keegan Swenson, winner of Unbound Gravel 2023. These comments were followed by contributions from Sarah Sturm, Ellen Campbell, and the reigning champion of Unbound Gravel 2024, Lachlan Morton.

The Castelli Unlimited Pro Jersey is the only one of the three models currently available for sale, while both the Rule28 Gravel Suit and Rapha Blaerosuit remain as prototypes and are not yet on the market.