Hasta La Ideas

We take a ride with Levi’s debut line for pedal-pushers

With everyone from big brands like Nike to upstarts like Outlier stepping into clothe the growing legions of bike commuters, Levi’s recent sneak peek of their debut line designed for cycling seemed like a no-brainer direction for the label. Drawing on their workwear heritage, the new series incorporates cutting-edge technical functionality, puts “craftsmanship, quality and durability” at the forefront of outfitting today’s worker, and integrates feedback from urban cyclists who already wear Levi’s—all of which made us eager to check out the duds first-hand.

Office-wide, the Trucker Jacket ($128), based on a 1967 design, elicited the most oohs-and-ahs for its long cut with a slight drop tail that, despite pockets (including one for an iPod) and flaps, manages to look streamlined on both men and women. Front pockets are angled for easy access, extra fabric in the underarm adds mobility, and a lip on the cuff partially covers hands while riding.

Like all the pieces in the line, the jacket features antimicrobial odor-protection and reflective accents for visibility. Another key detail across the collection is what’s been dubbed Nanosphere Technology, an application developed in partnership with Swiss fabric brand Schoeller Technologies that makes materials resist water and dirt, as well as offer more protection and longer lifespans.

For bottoms, Levi’s built a loop into the waistband of the 511 Skinny Commuter pants (available in elasticized denim or khaki, $78 each) for toting u-locks without cumbersome racks or shoving them down your pants. Roll up the cuff, and reflective tape on the inner seam provides increased safety at night, while a reinforced crotch saves you from regular trips to the tailor.

Look out for these and few other pant lengths in Levi’s and Urban Outfitters retail locations this summer.

Photos by Gregory Stefano