PEARL iZUMi’s 2018 Dirt Collection Now Available

LOUISVILLE, Colo. (February 20, 2018) — For Spring 2018, PEARL iZUMi introduces significant evolutions of its apparel line — with a focus on the emerging category of Dirt riders — including exciting new Versa apparel, an updated mountain bike collection and a full line of MTB footwear featuring Vibram® rubber outsoles. The entire collection is available today for the first time on www.pearlizumi.com or at your local PEARL iZUMi dealer. Recognizing trends towards riders wanting gear that can be used on a variety of surfaces and bikes, PEARL iZUMi has blended elements of its traditional product categories to meet a wider range of experiences. The Dirt collection is a curated combination of the MTB line, new Versa bike focused casual gear, and selected road apparel that can serve the full off-pavement spectrum; from all mountain singletrack shredding to gravel road and bike path riding. From classic MTB styles to new lifestyle silhouettes, the Dirt collection is designed to merchandise together, so riders can express themselves in PEARL iZUMi, with gear that meets the specific demands of their adventure.

“There are a lot of ways to have fun riding dirt,” said Alex Strouthopoulos, Senior Product Manager at PEARL iZUMi, “and we have see that riders increasingly choose gear that is more bike agnostic. With this new collection we wouldn’t be surprised if a rider wore components of the same outfit for singletrack, a gravel adventure ride and even around town. Not only does this offer more value to the rider, it allows him or her to maintain their personal style, instead of looking like a ‘roadie’ or ‘mountain biker’.”

SPRING 2018 DIRT APPAREL HIGHLIGHTS

Expanding on the colder weather Versa styles that launched this past fall, PEARL iZUMi added the Boardwalk Short, the Versa Short for women, Performance T’s for both men and women, and a minimal Versa Liner for both genders.

Boardwalk Short ($80)

The Boardwalk Short, part of the Versa collection, is “Colorado Casual” in a short. The long, 13.25” inseam and button front closure with two front pockets and belt loops gives a laid-back feel, while cycling-specific features like a wicking, lightweight Transfer Dry fabric, and a gusseted crotch to keep seams away from sensitive areas, for riding comfort.

Select Tour Jersey ($80)

Made for any road, path or trail, this relaxed-fit jersey is suited for road or baggy short styles, as well as coffee shop stops. SELECT Transfer fabric sets the benchmark for moisture transfer and breathability while front snap closure makes for added venting. Elasticized gripper on back holds hem in place and three back pockets provide ample storage for all day tours.   

Summit Short ($80)

For the performance-oriented rider with a modern style, this shell short delivers a tailored fit and thoughtful touches for comfort on the bike. A water-resistant DWR treatment keeps the elements out and stretch in the main body fabric adds pedaling mobility. 14" inseam (size medium). 

Women’s Versa Short ($100)

These shorts are designed with an on-the-bike fit but with an everyday look. The medium weight, double woven Transfer fabric provides optimal moisture management, with a DWR finish to shed road spray and precipitation. Front pockets and hidden zippered rear and side pockets project a casual vibe while reflective elements throughout ensure riders are visible to drivers when the sun sets. A gusseted crotch keep seams away from sensitive areas. This short features a 6.75" inseam (Size 8).

Performance T ($50) - Men & Women

Comfort and casual come together in this semi-form fitting top with a slightly dropped tail that’s perfect in a riding position. Transfer Dry fabric pulls sweat away from the rider’s skin and subtle black reflective elements keep them visible at night without compromising aesthetics.

Women’s Escape Singlet ($50)

Crafted with figure-flattering, lightweight SELECT Transfer Dry fabrics, this racerback tank looks and performs equally great on and off the bike. 

Versa Liner ($40)  - Men & Women

The gripper-free Versa Liner is boxer brief meets padded short. It is made of transfer mesh fabric for optimal moisture management. The low profile Versa Chamois is perfect for a more upright riding position, and minimal enough that it will add comfort without getting in the way. The seamless, breathable Versa Chamois provides moisture transfer, quick dry time and also features antimicrobial properties for odor absorption. The men’s inseam is 4.25” [size medium]. The women’s inseam is boyshort style at 2.25” [size medium].

SPRING 2018 DIRT FOOTWEAR HIGHLIGHTS

PEARL iZUMi teamed up with Vibram® this year to make its MTB footwear more durable, efficient and hikeable than ever before.

X-Alp Launch ($150) & X-Alp Launch SPD ($160) - Men & Women

Responding to rider demand, PEARL iZUMi developed the X-Alp® Launch, its first ever flat pedal shoe, designed to give riders confidence, control and comfort for all-day riding. For those looking to shred while clipped in with a modern street look, the revolutionary X-Alp Launch SPD shoe is the pinnacle of performance. Both shoes utilize dual compound Vibram® Megagrip rubber outsoles to balance durability and grip on and off-the-bike.

X-Alp Elevate ($180) - Men & Women

Building on the relationship with Vibram®, PEARL iZUMi is also introducing the X-Alp Elevate for all-mountain riders who require off-bike capability. The special ¾ length carbon shank delivers exceptional pedaling performance without compromising the natural walking gait. This high-performance, super versatile shoe, uses an aggressive Vibram® outsole to deliver great traction even in wet conditions. It also features a 3-layer bonded seamless upper for all-day riding comfort and durability, with a Boa® IP1 dial closure to deliver a semi-custom fit and secure foot retention on every adventure. A lightweight EVA midsole offers off-the-bike cushioning and all-day comfort. SPD Compatible.

X-Alp Summit ($140) - Men & Women

The fourth model in the new mountain bike footwear featuring a Vibram® compound outsole is the X-Alp Summit—a technical shoe designed to deliver superior comfort and durability for aggressive all-mountain riding. The advanced 3-layer seamless upper provides hours of comfort in or out of the saddle. A new sole featuring a nylon 3⁄4 length composite shank for efficient power transfer and off-the-bike hikeability and a Vibram® rubber compound provides maximum grip, longevity and pedaling stiffness.

Shop the full collection today at: www.pearlizumi.com.

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About PEARL iZUMi

For over 60 years, PEARL iZUMi has been evolving and revolutionizing the design and manufacture of performance apparel and footwear for athletes who depend on uncompromising gear. PEARL iZUMi products empower cyclists and triathletes to be faster, more comfortable and to perform better 365 days of the year. In 2013, PEARL iZUMi rooted its new world headquarters in the Colorado Front Range where it embraces strong influence, both culturally and structurally, from its Japanese heritage.