Functional and sustainable cycling clothing? Swiss brand Possenia combines both
6.5.2024
Translation: Elicia Payne
In addition to its company logo, Swiss brand Possenia has also written sustainability in capital letters on its cycling shirt. The Geneva-based company is a partner of the Bluesign environmental label. Correspondingly certified products are said to meet the strictest standards.
The system of the Swiss Bluesign Technologies AG in St Gallen excludes environmentally harmful substances from the manufacturing process. This not only benefits consumers, but also the environment and employees. Instead of focusing solely on problematic residues in the end product, it involves the companies. If a textile bears the Bluesign seal, at least 90 per cent of it has been processed in certified production facilities. The Geneva-based company Possenia is one brand that relies on bluesign products, among other things.
They provided me with a set of their products to try out. Here are my impressions of them.
Possenia Aero Race Jersey
According to Possenia, the bluesign-certified Aero Race Jersey, true to their name, has been developed for use on the road and specifically for speeds of over 25 km/h. According to the manufacturer, 100 per cent of the jersey’s fabrics were produced in Italy and the jersey itself was sewn by hand in Romania. The contours of the shirt are designed for minimum air resistance and maximum speed. This should result in lower drag, which translates into greater efficiency and ultimately improved performance on the road.
To be able to form a proper judgement, it would probably be necessary to go into a wind tunnel. That’s why I can’t give a final opinion here. I also don’t go out of my way to ride in those areas where a few per cent more aerodynamics would make a noticeable difference. However, the Aero Race Jersey could be of interest to all those who race and want to optimise every aspect of their equipment.
What I do have an opinion on, however, is the design of the black and red shirt, which I really like.
Features
- compressive and aerodynamic fit
- smooth, lightweight fabrics on the front inserts reduce air resistance, structured yoke inserts and sleeve fabrics reduce overall resistance
- odour-inhibiting and moisture-regulating
- three back pockets, one side pocket and one zippered pocket for additional storage space
- UVB protection 50+
- reflective elements for safety at dusk and in the dark
Source: Daniela Rohr
Possenia Explorer Jersey
According to Possenia, the bluesign-certified Explorer Jersey specialises in endurance and comfort. According to the manufacturer, 100 per cent of the fabrics were produced in Italy and Switzerland. The shirt itself is handmade in Romania. Possenia uses so-called Coldblack technology, which reflects the sun’s rays away from clothing. This technology reduces the absorption of sunlight to prevent the fabric from heating up. This should make the wearer less hot on the bike, and less sweat should ultimately lead to better performance.
Endurance is more my thing than speed. That’s why I’m like diesel energy for my bike: low consumption, but with slightly more emissions, in my case in the form of sweat. Last summer, I discovered the benefits of a base layer for myself, and since then I’ve never been without it on my bike in high temperatures. The combination of base layer and the Explorer Jersey is another step towards comfort. Although the thermometer read over 25 degrees when I tried on the jersey, even after two hours I still didn’t feel like I was completely soaked in sweat.
Features
- dynamic composition of technical fabrics which provide wind resistance and water repellence on the front panels
- Microclimate technology: one-sided airflow ensures high breathability, wicks away sweat and at the same time prevents cooling on descents
- three back pockets, one side pocket for additional storage space
- ergonomic design and stretchy fabrics ensure a versatile fit that adapts to different body shapes and riding positions
- UVB protection 50+
- reflective elements for safety at dusk and in the dark
Source: Daniela Rohr
Possenia bib shorts Aero Rush Raw Cut
The Possenia Aero Rush Raw Cut bib shorts also feature the bluesign label. These bib shorts are handmade in Romania and consist entirely of Italian-made fabrics. According to the manufacturer, the compression material used is designed to support the muscles and promote blood circulation during the ride. This improves general endurance and reduces the risk of muscle soreness.
Possenia has developed the pad specifically for ultracycling and long-distance rides. It has a central channel that promotes blood circulation and reduces pressure and numbness. The special curvature ensures a good fit and saddle stability. The bib shorts allow air to circulate well, reduce heat and wick away moisture.
The Aero Rush Raw Cut is a great bib short that is very comfortable to wear and, in my opinion, ticks all the boxes.
Features
- Compression fabric for improved muscle support and improved blood circulation
- antibacterial seat pad with elastic interface for comfort and hygiene
- Mesh inserts on the back ensure good breathability
- special seams reduce friction
- UVB protection 50 UPF
- reflective elements for safety at dusk and in the dark
Source: Daniela Rohr
Header image: Daniela Rohr
Patrick Bardelli
Senior Editor
Patrick.Bardelli@digitecgalaxus.chFrom radio journalist to product tester and storyteller, jogger to gravel bike novice and fitness enthusiast with barbells and dumbbells. I'm excited to see where the journey'll take me next.
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