I had the chance to run through all the new stuff from POC at Interbike the other week and while there is a ton of great stuff coming, a couple items I am particularly excited about. First is the addition of an entire XC line to the Resistance Pro collection and second is the Fondo Gradient road bike collection celebrating some of the best climbs in the world.
Recognizing that the needs of mountain bikers are diverse, POC broke down the Resistance Pro collection into three different lines: downhill, enduro, and cross country, each with its own ride specific features and functionality. The XC line includes a long sleeve Zip Jersey, Zip Tee and regular Tee. These tops are made from lightweight, moisture wicking fabric with Cordura on the sleeves in places where you are prone to hit during a crash. You get three rear pockets and a zippered cell phone pocket — no more storing your phone in your shorts as it can cause major damage if you wipe out.
In addition to the jerseys, the Resistance Pro XC line includes the Wind Vest and Stretch Jacket made from a stretch fabric with DWR coating. And joining the tops are a pair of Bib Shorts and regular shell Shorts. Rounding out the line is a set of accessories including caps, arm sleeves, leggings, gloves, socks, and even a helmet — the Octal X.
Fondo Gradient is a collection which celebrates the very essence of Fondo and the beauty of climbing on a road bike. Classic climbs form the cornerstone of bike culture and to celebrate their role, landscapes, and history, Fondo Gradient has been inspired by three of the most iconic: Passo dello Stelvio; l’Alpe d’Huez and Muur van Geraardsbergen.
The Fondo Gradient jerseys come in a Classic and Light version, both in colors representative of the country in which the climbs are located. The main difference between the two jerseys is the fabric weight and color blocking, not much else.
The jerseys feature three rear pockets plus a zippered cell phone pocket. But probably the coolest design detail is the zipper pull with the climb gradient — 19.8% for the Muur van Geraardsbergen, 12% for l’Alpe d’Huez, and 11% for Passo dello Stelvio.