150 Years of Innovation — The Story Behind the Giro Jersey

To celebrate 150 years of innovation, Castelli unveils a special edition Giro d’Italia kit—blending heritage, performance, and cutting-edge design.

In this episode, we sit down with Castelli Global Brand Manager Steve Smith to unpack the story behind the anniversary jersey worn by Soudal Quick-Step. From silk jerseys and the first-ever speed suit to aerodynamic breakthroughs and modern race-day technology, this conversation dives deep into the moments that reshaped cycling apparel.

You’ll hear the untold stories behind iconic innovations, the thinking behind the 150th anniversary design, and what it takes to keep pushing the limits of speed—decade after decade.

This isn’t just a look back. It’s a glimpse into the future of performance.

LINKS

⁠STRAVA Challenge ⁠

⁠Social Ride, May 9⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Steve Smith, Castelli Brand Manager ⁠⁠

⁠⁠Gabba R White Paper⁠⁠

⁠⁠The Gabba Story ⁠⁠🎧

⁠Gabba Wind Tunnel Testing⁠ 🎧

CHAPTERS

00:00 — 150 Years of Castelli

00:57 — From Silk to Speed

02:00 — Giro Anniversary Kit

03:29 — Design & Scorpion Timeline

05:50 — 1967: First Speed Suit

07:20 — 1977: Lycra Shorts

09:40 — Colored Shorts Break Rules

11:45 — 1982: Sublimation

12:50 — 2007: Aero Race

16:20 — Aero Adoption

17:05 — Gabba & Sanremo

17:56 — Today’s Fastest Kit

20:29 — Marginal Gains

20:56 — Wind Tunnel Life

21:23 — Peak Aero?

23:39 — Innovation Pressure

24:41 — Future Materials

25:22 — Where to Buy

26:09 — Closing Thoughts

– HOST –

Søren Jensen, Global Marketing Manager at Castelli, has worked for this iconic brand since 2006. He usually rides backroads and dirt trails, testing new gear in the Italian Dolomites. If you can't find him there, check the Castelli Headquarters in Fonzaso. Connect:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION

If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@castelli-cycling.com⁠⁠

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