TESTED: ilabb Don Series
See how these new threads from New Zealand stand up to Aussie riding conditions
Words: Sebastian Jayne
Photos: Matt Rousu
Designed and tested in New Zealand, ilabb are a newish brand looking to make a splash in the riding gear world. Starting out as a bike decal company in 2007, ilabb has evolved and now boasts a wide-range with multiple everyday streetwear collections. Their riding specific range is beginning to develop more and designed around four main aspects; breathable, lightweight, functional and durable.
The Don series features the Don Tee in full, ¾ and short sleeves and the Don Race Short along with a women’s specific range. We’ve put the Don Race Tee in short sleeve and Don Race Short to the test – we also used some ilabb branded gloves that are made by Fist.
The Don Race Short has become one of my go to riding shorts throughout the test. The Don is made from a stretchy but stiff material which offers more than enough stretch for pedalling while also covering knee pads. The stiff material is somewhat lightweight but should offer enough protection in a crash and the added laser cut vents offer a good amount of ventilation.
The front closure systems along with the elastic waist band keep the shorts in place and I never had a problem with them not holding position. The pockets are another well thought-out design, as they sit at a great angle to hold a phone and tools in the riding position. The fit overall was great and slim, which meant no flapping of excess material but enough stretch so I could stay agile on the bike.
The Don Race Tee was unfortunately not at the same level with a fit that was better at the standing position compared to the riding position. On the bike the shoulder material bunched up causing the sleeves to ride up the arm. It is a problem with some riding shirts, but other than this the Don shirt is good with excellent breathability and a soft feel. The branding is very subtle on the shirt tested but there are more flashy models in the range.
Both the Tee and Short feature excellent quality with the Don Race Short a standout favourite. Sizing was true to size and the only major issue was the fit of the Don Race Tee while on the bike. The pricing for both the Tee and Shorts are ballpark with other brands’ top offerings and should make a good addition to a trail riders wardrobe.
RRP:
Don Race Tee – ~ $73AUD
Don Race Short – ~ $165AUD
From: ilabb.com
Hits:
– Comfortable and well fitted shorts
– Breathable materials
– Soft feel for the shirt
Misses:
– Poor fit in a riding position for the shirt
