The Classic Seamless Knit
Reinventing our most iconic design.
Created to mark 20 years of Rapha, we’re proud to release the Classic Seamless Knit, inspired by Rapha’s first and most iconic piece – the Classic Jersey, which launched the brand in 2004. The reimagined merino design honours our past, whilst exploring the future of textile manufacturing and technology.
300 pieces (the same number of jerseys Rapha first produced in 2004) are coming soon.
Developed and crafted in our Atelier at Rapha Works in London and made in Carpi, Italy, the monochrome design has been created with Eva & Carola – experts in circular and seamless knitted garments.
Each piece is crafted from the finest merino fibres in a high performance blend, where every strand is meticulously engineered into an infinite, continuous formation of patterns that fit seamlessly around the body. The time honoured virtues of fine merino wool are enhanced with modern technology, resulting in a product that works like a second skin, moving and breathing with the flow of your ride.
Taking aesthetic and material inspiration from mid-century road cycling’s use of woolen jerseys is an enduring waymarker for Rapha. Wool garments have existed since the birth of cycling. From the first pink yarns of the Maglia Rosa to Rapha’s modern manifestations in merino – the wonder of wool is richly spun through the heart and soul of the sport.
Merino is nature's own performance fibre, offering thermal regulation, exceptional moisture management, is naturally anti microbial and sits comfortably next to skin.
“The Classic Seamless Knit represents the very essence of Rapha — where history meets innovation. The blocking layout pays tribute to past versions of the jersey and by working with Eva and Carola we were able to push the boundaries of knit design to create something truly exceptional.”
– Lauren Hunt, Rapha Apparel Designer
The geometric pattern and creation process of the Classic Seamless Knit was a central element of our 20th anniversary Past Forward exhibition, inspiring the kinetic sculptural centrepiece created by artists Isabel + Helen.