Review: Levi's Commuter Range Winter 2015/16

The Levi's brand should need little introduction; they are the original denims, with a heritage dating back to the time of John Steinbeck's 'Of Mice and Men'. What you might not be aware of, is that they also produce some of the best casual cycling apparel in the market. They started out adapting their superb 511 jeans, which I reviewed on the blog last year; more recently though, they've gone one step further, with some beautifully crafted shirts and outerwear. Let's take a look...



Review: Levi's Commuter Wool Hoodie

First up, my new favourite piece of casual outerwear: the Levi's Commuter Wool Hoodie. Wool jackets have been 'on-trend' for some time in the fashion world, and we have seen a real growth in brands producing trench coats and duffel coats with the material. For riding a bike around town, a woollen coat is rather impractical though, so Levi's have produced this versatile yet smart hoodie, to fulfil that need.

At first glance, the hoodie looks like a smart woollen full-zip jacket; with raglan cuffs and a soft anthracite colour-way. It is in the finer design features and the jacket's lining that the 'Commuter' specific features are hidden…

The cut for example, has a drop tail rear hem for greater coverage and protection. The hood, has a subtle rigid peak to shield from the wind and rain. The outer fabric, has a water repellent treatment to keep you dry; whilst the inner fabric is actually a warm micro-fleece lining, to insulate you on those winter morning rides. They are all subtle, but noticeable adaptations to the classic hoodie design.

This has become my favourite piece of casual outerwear this winter, for a good reason. It is smart enough to wear to business meetings, comfortable enough to wear all day long, and practical enough to be worn on the bike for short hops around town. A real cyclist-specific piece of casual apparel.







Review: Levi's Commuter Work Shirt

Underneath that wool hoodie, lies the smart and sophisticated Levi's Commuter Work Shirt. Similar to the hoodie, this looks like a denim shirt at first glance; but it features a number of clever adaptions, to make it more comfortable and practical for a city cyclist.

The fabric is a clever temperature regulating material, which wicks away moisture and allows your body to breathe far more than traditional cotton. It also features a hidden stretch panel on the back, to make it more comfortable when bent over in the riding position.

The cut is very much cycling orientated, with a slim profile and drop tail rear hem. I tested a size Small (my measurements are listed here), and it fits perfectly.

Other neat additions include reinforced elbows for added durability, a small collar that tucks neatly out the way, and double breast pockets for carrying small valuables.

Overall, this is a lovely shirt to wear; both on and off the bike.





Review: Levi's Commuter 511 Slim Fit Jeans

I reviewed these last year, but feel it is worth including them in this post, as the design has been updated for the 2015/16 AW15 range. The same slim fit, 3M reflective turns, U-lock holder and reinforced crotch remain; however the fabric now features added stretch and Levi's latest ‘Water-Less’ technology, which adds extra water-repellence, ideal for UK riding!

 The ideal pair of smart casual denims, to complete the look.

Read my full review of the 511 Commuter Jeans here (Link)

View the Levi's Commuter Range at Levi.com (Link)



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