Words James Ion - Photography James Ion and HRSH
HRSH Apparel is the new kid on the block. Their new Particles collection has just been released in three colour ways for both men and women, as well as a base layer, socks and matching bidons. I got the chance to try out the full kit and see if it really does meet the needs of a GRVL racer*
*I am in no way claiming that I am a GRVL racer :)
First things first, with any review I think it is important to be transparent about how the review came about. As you read in a previous issue, I interviewed Tobias Hörsch, founder of the company, to find out about the ethos, design process, and strategy of HRSH Apparel. Following this Tobias kindly sent me a full kit for review, but with the proviso that the review be unbiased. This clearly shows the confidence he has in his product, so kudos for that, and a thank you for providing the kit. This is not a paid-for advert and is a fully unbiased and honest review. Right now that’s over with, is it any good?
Initial impressions on opening the box were of quality, and that was just for the packaging! One of the founding principles of HRSH is that they focus on sustainability which means no plastic bags, only recyclable packaging and a carbon natural delivery service. Unboxing the kit each item was packaged individually in a separate paper sleeve, even the tags were held on with string, it felt like something special, a nice and welcomed touch.
When you first have the kit in your hands it feels like silk, almost too delicate for a GRVL race-specific kit, and looked small. I am no svelt mountain climber cyclist, and I would probably describe myself as an “average sized person” who normally wears an M in jerseys, so I was a little concerned I had the wrong size. However, it fit me, really, well, the material is super stretchy and even though it is a race fit it did not feel constricting or as if I had to suck my belly in all the time!
Often on race jerseys the sleeves can ride up or fold over on themselves. The HRSH jersey has a tight almost elastic cuff that clings to your arms keeping it in place no matter how much you move about. The zipper is good quality too, there is nothing more annoying than a cheap zip that either doesn’t close or pops open (looking at you Van Rysel!)
As standard, there are three pockets on the back, all within easy reach and with enough space to fit some snacks without any excess bulging or sagging, plus you get a zipped pocket for more valuable items.
In terms of feel and fit, the bib shorts followed suit with an almost silky smooth material and looked very small, but again the fit was like a glove, tight but not constricting with enough flexibility to move around on the bike. The bibs are fitted with a GRVL-specific pad for “increased vibration damping”. Now time will tell if this is the case as I have only ridden the one long ride, but regarding comfort, it does sit well and due to the bibs construction it stayed in place even on a 100km ride. The straps were never uncomfortable and had enough flex to never bother you.
Being GRVL-specific the bibs come with pockets. On the right leg a nice-sized mesh pocket on the other a zippered one. Here I would have liked to see a mesh pocket on both sides. I am not sure of the benefit of a zippered pocket, especially on the thigh as when racing hard you want instant accessibility, also I would have concerns about a crash if the zipper would end up causing more damage to your leg. However, whilst riding it was never in the way and I could open it, I just think it’s not needed.
The base layer is a one-size-fits-all garment and fits snuggly to my “average” body. It gives you a nice secure feeling and does the job of wicking the sweat away and with its seamless construction, there is no irritation.
I was provided with two pairs of socks. This was because I am size 42, but I don’t like short socks, and so sometimes I need to order a bigger size. The HRSH socks though appear made for my tastes as the Large socks are for 41-43 so they fit nice and high on the leg. They are thin so are defiantly not for a wet day or winter rides, they match the colourway of each jersey, but have a lot of white in them, so bear that in mind when hitting the dusty trails, but then who am I to talk, I wear white shoes!
The particle design comes in three different colours, Pink, Yellow and Orange. I was sent the Orange version along with matching Biddons. The design is not minimalist or subtle you will definitely notice it and be noticed in it. The design won’t be for everyone but that’s the same with everything, I prefer a more understated kit, but to be honest, I enjoyed the added colour and the full-on design, it felt faster and more fun!
All the garments are hand-made in Italy, made from fabrics sourced in Europe, and there is also according to Tobi, love in each item. Now I cannot attest to that, but I can confirm that you see the artistry in the production, that time has been taken on each piece of kit. However, this level of craftsmanship is not cheap, which leads us to the main barrier to you buying it, the price.
The jersey costs - 180€
The bibs cost - 240€
The baselayer costs - 80€
The socks cost - 22€
Full Kit - 522€
Fairs fair, let’s put that into perspective, you can spend this much on other premium brands, such as Rapha, MAAP or Assos, in fact, you can spend more, way more even. What it all comes down to is, do you want to spend so much on a company you have not heard of before? If not why not? Large premium companies charge more not because they place a premium on quality and locally sourced materials and handmade craftmanship, they charge a high price due to marketing and knowing that you want to be seen in their label.
I would argue the prices HRSH has set are more than reasonable when considering the quality of materials, the handmade premium, quality fit, level of comfort, crash replacement and carbon neutral delivery. These things are not cheap, so it is to their credit that despite this they have not made any concessions to increase their markup.
But should you buy it?
Yes is the simple answer, the fit and feel are very high quality, it moves with your body and is never constricting or uncomfortable. Overall I would give the full kit a 4/5, why not 5? The design won’t be to everyone’s taste, and the zippered pocket on the left leg is unnecessary.
So before you go for the normal, and get a kit that a thousand other cyclists are wearing, maybe check out the HRSH collection, it could become your new favourite kit, as it has mine!
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At GRVL Magazine every product is put through its paces on our test course - 100 km ride, Interval Session and Gentle Spin to see how the products perform in different situations. The reviews are conducted by real-world riders who look for things that they want in a product. All reviewers offer an unbiased opinion based on their experiences with the products that are backed up by facts, however, reviews are by their very nature subjective and not definitive and should be seen as a guide only.
What the GRVL Magazine scores mean
Good scores are more common than bad, because, fortunately, good products are more common than bad.
Exceptional 5/5
Very Good 4/5
Good 3/5
Average 2/5
Poor 1/5
Appalling 0/5
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