Pearl Izumi is making an overhaul to their lineup for 2016. They have always been a company with a focus on nice fabrics and function versus the appearance of their products. For this year they are refocusing on the whole package. What you see in front of you are several lighter weight products that now incorporate those great fabrics with a new focus on functionality AND appearance.
The WRX jacket is a lightweight rain jacket with a hood to fit over your helmet. You'll notice a vent in the back of the hood which allows it to stay put while you are cruising down the trail by making a place for air to escape. The water repellent fabric uses a membrane on the inside to keep water out but is also breathable at the same time. The membrane is charcoal coated which absorbs liquid to a point, transforms it into a vapor, and then helps push it out of the coat. All zippers are waterproof as well.
Also new from Pearl Izumi are several pairs of shorts that use a DWR water repellent coating. While it does seem to go away over time, we were told that it can be reactivated by tumble drying on the cool setting. The shorts come in increments of 2-inch waist sizes, which provides a more precise fit than many other manufacturers. Internal adjusters use a hook-and-loop style adjustment that is nice and clean, although Pearl Izumi still provides belt loops for those who want them. The shorts will no longer come with liners for 2016 as they separated liners out and are allowing riders to purchase the liner that suites them best.
Pearl also has short sleeve and 3/4-sleeve jerseys that should appeal to the majority of the Vital audience.
