2023 was a momentous year for the brand marked with milestone collection launches, tests of fortitude, and new friendships forged across the globe. As an independently-owned brand based in the heart of NYC, our commitment remains steadfast in supporting our community with the most exceptional riding gear, and our journey is not possible without the unwavering support of those around us, both near and far. Read on for a highlight reel of some of our most memorable moments from the past 12 months.
MALLORCA CALLING
We kicked off 2023 by flying across the pond to one of our all-time favorite cycling landscapes: Mallorca.
Situated on a mountainous island 200 kilometers off the coast of Spain, Mallorca offers an unparalleled cycling and cultural experience. Hence why we chose the Iberian isle as the backdrop of our first international pop up.
The RUBBER N’ ROAD Pop Up launched in late February and ran for three weeks in the heart of Palma’s Old Town. Produced in partnership with local fashion boutique 3SSENCE and supported by our friends at The Barn Berlin, the pop up played host to the SS23 season’s latest RNRNYC™ drops, and culminated in a memorable group ride that traversed the northwestern coast of the island. We can never let too much time pass before visiting our favorite European island again, so stay tuned!
BUILDING THE NYC ATELIER
At the beginning of 2023, we completed the buildout of the design studio & atelier above our NYC store. Equipped with cutting edge laser markers, cutting equipment, stitching machines, and finishing equipment, the studio enables us to develop our own garment patterns and prototypes.
This provides us the ability to innovate, experiment and test cutting edge garment technologies like no other brand in cycling, while accelerating our R&D and real-world testing process.
We've expanded upon our work with New York's best pattern makers, fabric cutters, sewing specialists and technical experts, many with whom we started working in 2022.
THE UNIFORM REDEFINED
Our most comprehensive launch of the year was without a doubt Uniform. The collection centers around high-performance cycling apparel with timeless styling for day in, day out use. The collection also marked our inaugural women’s on-bike launch. Pairing with the Uniform Jerseys and Bib Shorts are the Uniform Socks and Gloves. SS24 will see the expansion of the collection to include a wider color variety for increased jersey + bib combinations as well as climate protective equipment.
REVERB: FOR SEEKERS OF MAXIMUM VELOCITY
In early August, we set our sights on one of cycling’s most iconic climbs: Mont Ventoux. Nestled in the southern France region of Provence, Mont Ventoux towers above the region with its barren summit and meteorological tower that stands as a rite of passage for discerning cyclists. It was this landscape that laid the backdrop for the launch of our inaugural short sleeve racing jersey: RNRNYC™ REVERB. Featuring a lightweight Italian fabric, aerodynamic sleeves and eye-catching holographic logos, the REVERB Race Jerseys stand out as an exuberant representation of the RNRNYC™ collection.
WORLDWIDE CONNECTIONS
Perhaps the most significant milestone for the brand in 2023 was welcoming four new global boutique retail partners who each excel at progressing cycling culture forward in their respective communities. From Quebec to Dubai, Seoul to Osaka, our retail partners represent the entrepreneurial, community-powered hubs that RUBBER N’ ROAD was founded upon. We were fortunate to visit our friends in Canada (twice!), Seoul and Japan as part of the RNRNYC™ Global Ride Series. We look forward to building these bonds for years to come, and can’t wait to return for more adventures in 2024.
THE EVOLUTION OF PREVAIL
In October, the product that perhaps best represents our unwavering commitment to innovation was launched: The PREVAIL Pro Bib Tights. Fusing woven and knitted Italian fabrics together alongside our ever-popular UHD chamois and silicone grippers resulted in a winter bib tight that offers supreme support, comfort and performance in cold weather cycling conditions. Additionally, a Dyneema® fabric guard beneath the chamois enhances durability and stability on the saddle.
We are grateful for the support of our community in NYC and around the globe.
Gil, Max & the team.