Gabba: expensive luxury or a great jacket worth the money?

TheBlaaMan

Any objective opinions out there from folk who have a Castelli Gabba?

There are lots of competitor jackets under €200, but the Gabba looks kinda cool - not sure if its race-fit lines will look quite so good on me, mind.

So, shell out on a gabba or save money and buy something else?

pelevin

I'm not a long-term cyclist at all so I'm not in a position to compare & contrast but I bought a Gabba convertible last spring from the ebay seller from the US below at a far lower price than available this side of the pond. I see at the moment there's only an XL one available. 162 euros after postage, the list price on Wiggle is 267euros. He seems to regularly have new stock in so there's a good chance there'll be more from that seller again soon.

http://www.ebay.ie/itm/SHIPS-IN-24HRS-2013-GENUINE-CASTELLI-GABBA-CONVERTIBLE-JERSEY-JACKET-CYCLING-/171027090823?pt=US_Cycling_Clothing&var=&hash=item27d2024d87

I think it's a class piece of kit, light but very effective, & would definitely do the same again if I'd my time over. Not in a position though to offer thoughts on quality or not options by other brands. I'm 5ft 10, about 10 & half to 11 stone & got Large which was right sizing.

rab!dmonkey

I thought it was more like a jersey. Do you wear it with a baselayer? Has it ever been overwhelmed by rain?

pelevin

rab!dmonkey wrote: »

I thought it was more like a jersey. Do you wear it with a baselayer? Has it ever been overwhelmed by rain?

Heavier than a jersey, prefer to wear it with very lightweight Craft baselayer http://www.wiggle.co.uk/craft-cool-mesh-superlight-sleeveless-base-layer/

I've been in it in quite heavy rain but maybe not quite downpours but it's handled what I've experienced no bother. Completely windproof. Very versatile with the convert option but too warm even with sleeves off on warm summer days I'd say. Haven't had it thru a winter yet but I'd say with a little layering it'll easily cover all conditions. As I say, very light but certainly a jacket rather than a jersey, & when the Milan San Remo had snow blizzards this spring, the Gabba got a lot of renown for being worn by pro's across teams regardless of whether it was supposed to be team-kit or not.

TheBlaaMan

pelevin wrote: »

I'm not a long-term cyclist at all so I'm not in a position to compare & contrast but I bought a Gabba convertible last spring from the ebay seller from the US below at a far lower price than available this side of the pond. I see at the moment there's only an XL one available. About 165 euros after postage, I see the list price on Wiggle is 267euros. He seems to regularly have new stock in so there's a good chance there'll be more from that seller again soon.

http://www.ebay.ie/itm/SHIPS-IN-24HRS-2013-GENUINE-CASTELLI-GABBA-CONVERTIBLE-JERSEY-JACKET-CYCLING-/171027090823?pt=US_Cycling_Clothing&var=&hash=item27d2024d87

I think it's a class piece of kit, light but very effective, & would definitely do the same again if I'd my time over. Not in a position though to offer thoughts on quality or not options by other brands. I'm 5ft 10, about 10 half stone & got Large which was right sizing.

DO they require any specific (ie careful) washing etc?

pelevin

TheBlaaMan wrote: »

DO they require any specific (ie careful) washing etc?

Just the usual kind of instructions on label: 30 degrees C, similar colours, no fabric softener or bleach.

slfcarro5

http://www.shopslipstreamsports.com/shop-catalog/2012-garmin-sharp-gabba-config.html
Don't know if this will suit but you can buy the gabba with garmin logo for 149 dollars which is a bit cheaper than found else. May be worth a look if you don't mind having garmin written across the front

Harrybelafonte

slfcarro5 wrote: »

http://www.shopslipstreamsports.com/shop-catalog/2012-garmin-sharp-gabba-config.html
Don't know if this will suit but you can buy the gabba with garmin logo for 149 dollars which is a bit cheaper than found else. May be worth a look if you don't mind having garmin written across the front

Only in small?

Brian?

All Castelli gear is worth the money.

detones

Liking the look of that waterproof jersey. Hate wearing a rain jacket . Pricey all the same but if it does perform well it would worth it IMHO.

nailik

I have a short-sleeve Gabba, which I wear all the time. Even when it's not raining.
When paired with Nanoflex armwarmers, it is brilliant. Warm yet breathable, windproof and, while not waterproof, will keep you fairly dry in anything but the worst of downpours. Not to mention the fact it doesn't flap about like a sail like a rain coat.

Did I mention it also looks badass?

_Skitso_

nailik wrote: »

I have a short-sleeve Gabba, which I wear all the time. Even when it's not raining.
When paired with Nanoflex armwarmers, it is brilliant. Warm yet breathable, windproof and, while not waterproof, will keep you fairly dry in anything but the worst of downpours. Not to mention the fact it doesn't flap about like a sail like a rain coat.

Did I mention it also looks badass?

Same here, have the short sleeve. Wear it all the time with a base layer and maybe more when the temps get lower. Probably add a good pair of arm warmers soon to complete the package like nailik has. Have had it out in heavy showers and no issue, likewise had it out in basking heat and didn't melt.

I have a buy once buy well view on things which I agree can sometimes end with me spending a lot and maybe not getting value but with the Gabba I'm very very happy I indulged.

Bambaata

Glad to see a topic on this and thanks for the ebay link

I was wondering if anyone could comment on the sizing (seems the usual -go 1 larger than normally wear) and the warmth of the jacket versus jersey. Im just wondering which is going to get most use. Am i right in saying the jacket with detachable arms is still too warm May/June to August/September and really would only be for outside of those months. If you were to put a number on it what temperature would you think is the starting point at which the jacket even with arms taken off is too warm? I really need a good jersey/jacket but cant decide between the two. I know there the option of buying both but it seems that would be mega overkill!

slap/dash

Yeah, I'm considering the short sleeve jersey and use with bas layer/ATM warmers.

If anyone can confirm that sizing is typical, that would be great. Mostly wearing xxL in vermarc and nalnini, so is that the same for castelli?

slap/dash

Lawls at iPad text correction: base layer and arm warmers

BryanL

Gabba is great for light rain and windy wet days. But it's not a waterproof jacket, it's very breathable, windproof and fairly waterproof.
it's great for racing in rain but you'd get cold and wet with it on the commute in "proper rain".
I have a long and short sleeve and would use them year round when conditions allow.

TheBlaaMan

FWIW, the cheapest site for the jacket is certainly that eBay link, but I wonder what the risk of Customs slapping an import charge and then VAT might be....I can see the convertible jacket is just over €200 at the Italian site http://www.all4cycling.com/ with free shipping and that really puts CRC, Evans and Wiggle in the shade. Note though that Wiggle have £40 off with code (MONEY-OFF-2) for a purchase over £200 till 4pm tomorrow, so that would bring the price back to about €215, shipping now extra with Wiggle

pelevin

TheBlaaMan wrote: »

FWIW, the cheapest site for the jacket is certainly that eBay link, but I wonder what the risk of Customs slapping an import charge and then VAT might be....I can see the convertible jacket is just over €200 at the Italian site http://www.all4cycling.com/ with free shipping and that really puts CRC, Evans and Wiggle in the shade. Note though that Wiggle have £40 off with code (MONEY-OFF-2) for a purchase over £200 till 4pm tomorrow, so that would bring the price back to about €215, shipping now extra with Wiggle

I certainly won't claim anything about risk, just that in my case from that seller everything went perfectly smoothly & swiftly with no extra charges. Seems to be some huge discrepancies in pricing all right.

pelevin

Just searched out of interest and at

http://www.revenue.ie/en/customs/leaflets/pn1882.html

it states:

"C. Consignments of Negligible Value
Consignments not exceeding an intrinsic value of €150 may be imported from outside the EU without payment of Customs Duty. Intrinsic value is the value of the goods alone and does not include insurance and freight)."

That would seem to give the all-clear in this case.

Brian?

Bambaata wrote: »

Glad to see a topic on this and thanks for the ebay link

I was wondering if anyone could comment on the sizing (seems the usual -go 1 larger than normally wear) and the warmth of the jacket versus jersey. Im just wondering which is going to get most use. Am i right in saying the jacket with detachable arms is still too warm May/June to August/September and really would only be for outside of those months. If you were to put a number on it what temperature would you think is the starting point at which the jacket even with arms taken off is too warm? I really need a good jersey/jacket but cant decide between the two. I know there the option of buying both but it seems that would be mega overkill!

If you go the jacket route I recommend this:

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/castelli-mortirolo-due-jacket-1/

Started wearing mine once the temp went below 15C, a great jacket. At the moment I'm just wearing an aldi compression vest underneath it. It's water resistant but not water proof so I carry a rain cape as well.

When it gets colder, below 7 or 8 I reckon, I'll wear layers under the jacket. Probably a long sleeve base layer.

The tax man

Bobshop.de have the non-convertible version in sizes M to 2XL for €179.95 + shipping(9.95)
€200+ will get you free shipping.

I have it in a large and I have to say the size guide is fairly accurate.
I'd usually take a chest size between 38" to 40" depending on brand. I'd describe the large in this top as race fit.Tight but not restrictive and I'm only going to have a base layer underneath so it's perfect. Nice arm length.
I'm 5'11" 75kgs.

TheBlaaMan

Order placed. Now the wait..........:)

TheBlaaMan

Arrived this morning. 8 days from order on eBay via US. Looks nice, fits nice (XL: 80kg, 185cm, 100cm chest). Great price

pelevin

TheBlaaMan wrote: »

Arrived this morning. 8 days from order on eBay via US. Looks nice, fits nice (XL: 80kg, 185cm, 100cm chest). Great price

Glad it all went smoothly.

Bambaata

Sounds like we're similarly built so am interested to hear on how it fits once you get a chance on the road. Just wondering can many layers go underneath etc

dermabrasion

I've the x-large. I'm 40-41 chest. It fits snug. Wore it over the feather beds on the crappiest, howling, rain-like-a-sandblaster type of day. I had a craft merino base layer: it did exactly what it said on the tin.

skerry

Just wondering how ye're getting on with the Gabba's so far folks. I'm thinking I might put in a word for one for Christmas. Want to use it as a winter jersey so I'm thinking of going with the long sleeve or the convertible.

I have a Santini Magic Jacket (think that's whats it's called) which was waterproof enough at the start but had it out for a wet spin Sunday and it didn't do much, seems a few washes haven't done it any favors.

Just wondering if ye think the Gabba is as good as it's supposed to be or are there better options out there and it's all just very good marketing.

Also I'm about 5'11" and 68kg (ish) so I'm thinking a Large would work, any opinions? I take a Large in Giordana jerseys not sure if Castelli is similar fit.

The tax man

I was out in mine on Sunday in the rain and it held up surprisingly well. I thought the weather had turned too bad for it to cope on it's own but it did.
I didn't have a choice anyway as I went without a rain jacket.

Most of my route had a headwind so at times I was getting a good pasting with rain. Also went over a few climbs into the mist and rain.
I only had a Prendas heavy weight base layer underneath it and was kept warm all day.


Front of jacket after 2hrs in the rain. Water had stopped beading on the shoulders and parts of the arms but I still wasn't wet inside.

skerry

The tax man wrote: »

I was out in mine on Sunday in the rain and it held up surprisingly well. I thought the weather had turned too bad for it to cope on it's own but it did.
I didn't have a choice anyway as I went without a rain jacket.

Most of my route had a headwind so at times I was getting a good pasting with rain. Also went over a few climbs into the mist and rain.
I only had a Prendas heavy weight base layer underneath it and was kept warm all day.

Front of jacket after 2hrs in the rain. Water had stopped beading on the shoulders and parts of the arms but I still wasn't wet inside.

Thanks for that Tax Man, proper hard ba$tard pic there. Was out in same conditions on Sunday but my Santini just wasn't up to the task. Felt cold, especially when the pace wasn't high and I was in middle of group, and didn't keep water out long.

Did you go for the longsleeve version or the convertible?

The tax man

I have the long sleeve version.

pelevin

skerry wrote: »

Also I'm about 5'11" and 68kg (ish) so I'm thinking a Large would work, any opinions? I take a Large in Giordana jerseys not sure if Castelli is similar fit.

I'd be pretty similar size-wise & have a Gabba convertible in Large which I'd say is right for me.

shutup

Still looking for a long sleeve or convertible in Dublin if anyone knows who stocks them.
Thanks

skerry

pelevin wrote: »

I'd be pretty similar size-wise & have a Gabba convertible in Large which I'd say is right for me.

Thanks for that. Do you find you use the convertible function of it much? I'm debating either convertible or longsleeve and I'm wondering how much need I'll have for the convertibel seeing as it'll be mainly used during winter anyway (could be wrong though). I'm presuming the zips for the sleeves are well sealed and don't affect the waterproofing on it?

pelevin

skerry wrote: »

Thanks for that. Do you find you use the convertible function of it much? I'm debating either convertible or longsleeve and I'm wondering how much need I'll have for the convertibel seeing as it'll be mainly used during winter anyway (could be wrong though). I'm presuming the zips for the sleeves are well sealed and don't affect the waterproofing on it?

I got it in the Spring & certainly used the convert side of it then but an extened bout of illness meant till recently I've been on the bike very little. Now of course it's purely in longsleeve mode I'd use it.

So while I've not had proper use of it thru the season, still I'd say definitely in Spring again & even in the Summer when not too warm, the short sleeve side of it will get loads of use. Wouldn't say the sleeves can really be put on or off while actually on the move but that's hardly a problem outside of racing. Just a quick roadside stop & put them into the back pockets. Zip issue you mention btw is not an issue.

So personally I definitely am glad I got the convert & would do the same again but that was with a great price I linked to earlier in the thread.

Lumen

pelevin wrote: »

Wouldn't say the sleeves can really be put on or off while actually on the move

pelevin

Lumen wrote: »

You'll need to produce a video! Maybe grab one of them lads from the helmet camera threads. You might be able to get them off but I'd be mighty impressed if you got them on again. It might say more about me but a bit of a Harry Houdini effort in my book!

skerry

pelevin wrote: »

I'd be pretty similar size-wise & have a Gabba convertible in Large which I'd say is right for me.

Apologies pelevin, one last question. Do you reckon the Medium would've been too tight for you. Going by the size chart I'd be a Medium (95cm chest), some sites saying Castelli gear always comes up small but have also read that the Gabba size chart is fairly accurate so not sure what to do. As usual no local LBS stocking these so have to wing it. Hoping that Ebay shop you linked get's in more, great price. Thanks

pelevin

skerry wrote: »

Apologies pelevin, one last question. Do you reckon the Medium would've been too tight for you. Going by the size chart I'd be a Medium (95cm chest), some sites saying Castelli gear always comes up small but have also read that the Gabba size chart is fairly accurate so not sure what to do. As usual no local LBS stocking these so have to wing it. Hoping that Ebay shop you linked get's in more, great price. Thanks

I'd say at a guess I'm/we're between sizes, & while I'd imagine I'd get away with a Medium, if I was to buy again I'd stick with Large. Slightly loose I'd personally choose over a bit tight & it isn't as if I ever find myself thinking this is a bit loose.

TheBlaaMan

I wouldn't risk it being too small, especially if you go with an online purchase (unless someone like CRC who are great with returns.)

I'm 100cm chest and XL is snug with a LS base layer and SS jersey underneath - which I reckon I'll need as it is winter clothing after all. A 4hr spin on Saturday in it was comfy, but I'd not have liked it to have been any smaller. If too toght, it may fit you in the chest, but ride up your back as you cycle - not ideal in the conditions it meant to suit......

I have the convertible one - it will be a while before I take off the sleeves, but its a nice option to have - that said save €30 by buying the long sleeved one and you'll not miss the convertibility, IMO.

pelevin

skerry wrote: »

Apologies pelevin, one last question. Do you reckon the Medium would've been too tight for you. Going by the size chart I'd be a Medium (95cm chest), some sites saying Castelli gear always comes up small but have also read that the Gabba size chart is fairly accurate so not sure what to do. As usual no local LBS stocking these so have to wing it. Hoping that Ebay shop you linked get's in more, great price. Thanks

Just to add, I've a feeling that store has knocked 15 to 20 dollars off the price SINCE selling out of stock, whatever that implies. That brings it a bit closer to others' prices but still far below. Bobshop have it at 200 euros - which is a fair bit less than other online stores.

Highway_To_Hell

[QUOTE=[url][/url]http://www.ebay.ie/itm/SHIPS-IN-24HRS-2013-GENUINE-CASTELLI-GABBA-CONVERTIBLE-JERSEY-JACKET-CYCLING-/171027090823?pt=US_Cycling_Clothing&var=&hash=item27d2024d87[/QUOTE]

Anyone know of anywhere else I can pick up the Castelli-gabba top online. looking for a santa present for my kids to get me.

thanks

TheBlaaMan

Highway_To_Hell wrote: »

Anyone know of anywhere else I can pick up the Castelli-gabba top online. looking for a santa present for my kids to get me.

thanks

Try
Bobshop.de
Chainreactioncycles.com
All4cycling.com

I've not used the last one..

I bought from the shop you have linked to and delivery was only 8 days including a weekend

dermabrasion

TheBlaaMan wrote: »

Try
Bobshop.de
Chainreactioncycles.com
All4cycling.com

I've not used the last one..

I bought from the shop you have linked to and delivery was only 8 days including a weekend

I used All4cycling.com on a few occasions. They add on VAT and postage to the quoted price. This still comes in (marginally) cheaper than comptitors for some products. I found them reliable (so far)

Highway_To_Hell

Thanks for the replies, was hoping to get a bargain this week with Black Friday deals all over the place, but it looks like I need to pile on a load of weight if I am to get Castelli gabba top at a bargain price.

pelevin

Just to add I see the Gabba long & short sleeved but not the convert for brilliant prices at Competitive Cyclist in the US.

http://www.competitivecyclist.com/Store/catalog/search.jsp?q=gabba&s=u

Problem with them is they seem to hit you with a $50 international postage fee but free delivery for within the US. So if an option, have it delivered to address of friend in the US who then sends it on here.

Smokeyskelton

More expensive than the last post, but it is within the EU so no import duties etc. Ribble Cycles have 10% off Castelli at the moment, and an extra 10% off with the code XTRA10. So that's the guts of 20% off list price (UK list appears to be £150 for shortsleeve version).

Also, there is free delivery for orders over €125. You have to order in Euro, otherwise delivery is £9 to Ireland.

p.s. Not sure of the expiry date for the discount code.

Highway_To_Hell

pelevin wrote: »

Just to add I see the Gabba long & short sleeved but not the convert for brilliant prices at Competitive Cyclist in the US.

http://www.competitivecyclist.com/Store/catalog/search.jsp?q=gabba&s=u

Problem with them is they seem to hit you with a $50 international postage fee but free delivery for within the US. So if an option, have it delivered to address of friend in the US who then sends it on here.

Even with the exorbitant shipping charge it works out at €136 which isn't too bad. With work I am in and out of the States every few weeks and was due to be there this week but looks like it will be the new year before I am there again. might take the hit so the kids can give it to me for Christmas.

wrote:

More expensive than the last post, but it is within the EU so no import duties etc. Ribble Cycles have 10% off Castelli at the moment, and an extra 10% off with the code XTRA10. So that's the guts of 20% off list price (UK list appears to be £150 for shortsleeve version).

Also, there is free delivery for orders over €125. You have to order in Euro, otherwise delivery is £9 to Ireland.

p.s. Not sure of the expiry date for the discount code.

all sizes out of stock :-(

Smokeyskelton

Sorry Ribble had sold out. They had stock when I checked (all in stock except XL). I was interested in short sleeve, so that's all I looked at really.

Probikekit.co.uk have 15% off all clothing at the moment, and 33% off Gabba short sleeve 3XL. Presumably the 15% off would work on top of the 33% if you are 3XL.

Voucher still looks to be active on their site (at the moment anyway). Free delivery to Ireland on purchases over £40.

flythebike

I'm a hardcore bike commuter in the Washington, DC area, and have to deal with a lot of variable weather. I'm on the bike for about 2 hours a weekday typically. In the morning it is often in the 30s. Riding home it might be above 50, and about 6 miles from home I hit a descent with a very cold tree lined valley that is shaded for most of the day. This jacket is an absolute godsend. I zip off the arms on warmer days and all is right with the world. I don't have to ride with a bag (I was using a Camelback with no bladder) on my back to carry home a big jacket. When I hit the cold section I can put the sleeves back on.

BTW I can take the sleeves off while on the bike if it isn't windy but it is a bit scary. I paid between 200-250 dollars at a local bike shop and the salesman complained that he can't get any more of them as they're so in demand.

I'm 6' with a 42 inch chest, about 195 lbs. I have a cat 2 amateur sprinter's build - I'm muscular and carrying 10 pounds over race weight and an XL fits me smartly.

couerdelion

For the larger gentlemen... Probikekit have the short sleeve gabba for £99 but only in 3XL. If you need something else that will take the order to over £100 then code "VOUCHCOUK10" will get £10 off.

skerry

pelevin wrote: »

Just to add I see the Gabba long & short sleeved but not the convert for brilliant prices at Competitive Cyclist in the US.

http://www.competitivecyclist.com/Store/catalog/search.jsp?q=gabba&s=u

Problem with them is they seem to hit you with a $50 international postage fee but free delivery for within the US. So if an option, have it delivered to address of friend in the US who then sends it on here.

Sickened, I had been in touch with these lads re postage etc and by the time I decided to order they had sold out in my size and won't have again until New Year.

Anyone know of any other reasonable deals going on the Gabba. The missus was looking to buy me one for Christmas but don't want her forking out €200+ for one when they can be got for a good bit less in the New Year