There are moments in cycling that will always be remembered. And if not remembered, documented and read by future generations to relive as if they were there. Who handed whom the bidon? Coppi to Bartali or Bartali to Coppi? The jury’s still out on that one, yet we recall the image as if we were stood on the roadside.
In 1988, Andy Hampsten fought through a blizzard to crest the Passo di Gavia alone. This is before the UCI’s Extreme Weather Protocol, okay? He took the prized Maglia Rosa that day and rode the last nine stages to the finish in Vittorio Veneto becoming the first American to win the race.
The 2018 edition of the Giro marks the 30th Anniversary of Andy Hampsten’s victory. Less is made of his Giro d’Italia win than perhaps is due. Until now.
Pairing up with Hampsten, Rapha has put together a collection consisting of a jersey, base layer, bib shorts, neoprene gloves, a winter cap, socks and this red rain cape.
The jacket is similar to Rapha’s Pro Team race cape. It’s made from a Polartec fabric that is waterproof as well as breathable. It has an embroidered Andy Hampsten logo on the front pocket and a reflective Gavia ’88 graphic on the chest.
Hampsten and Rapha have paired up before to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this historic win. The apparel brand made a replica of the pink jersey he wore complete with homage to the 7-Eleven–Hoonved logo across the chest (out of merino wool, obviously). For Raphaphiles, this jersey is the Holy Grail.
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We’re heading into summer now, and you might be this thinking it’s a little out of season (it wasn’t for the Dolomites in 1988). But if you want it, get it, as it’s a strictly limited run and you’ll have to wait another ten years for the next love in.
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