Lions into Lambs

The Chrome Pacer Sweater

The Icebreaker's Quantum Headliner (Icebreaker's Quantum Headliner)

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In an industry that's already dense with options, it's only natural to greet yet another cycling gear company with a measure of skepticism. But we welcome Chrome with open arms. The San Fran-based cycle gear company has been putting out some of the most durable and stylish, city-centric products for more than 14 years. Here, the focus is on urban warfare—cabs that treat red lights like a challenge, clueless pedestrians who ignore cross walks, and the endless exposure to grime, smoke, and smog. In other words, it's all about stylish durability.

Chrome's bag line is arguably its signature product (for now, at least—more on that later). Geared toward to the toil of bike messengers, the range includes all sorts waterproof plastic roll-top backpacks large enough to swallow your desktop computer. But our tester gravitated toward the Citizen courier pack ($140), which boasts 1,400 cubic inches of storage space (enough for your daily kit), with seam bindings, a durable Cordura outer shell, and a 100 percent weatherproof truck tarp inner lining. The shoulder strap is constructed out of seat belt webbing, and the signature seat belt buckle is more than an aesthetic touch; it also lets you synch the bag tight with one hand. As it's designed to be close-fitting, the Citizen isn't the bag for frequent in-and-out grabs—a fair trade off for the streamlined profile you want while cycling. The bag also has a cross-chest stabilizing strap and plenty of inside organizing pockets, including a zipper pouch. More, the bag just looks good, with its sleek two-tone color scheme and the artful use of the company's logo on the seat belt button and as a badge on the bag's flap.

The real surprise, however, is Chrome's more recent apparel line. As with its bags, each piece has been made with cycle-specific details. Though limited to only four pieces (for now, one hopes), each displays all the right touches. The Pacer zip sweater ($180) employs lightweight, cotton-soft 100 percent merino wool for sweat-wicking, odor-free, warm-when-wet comfort. A narrow-zip key pocket hides on the right sleeve, a dropped tail keeps your back side covered when leaning over your handlebars, and a large rear cargo pocket with twin zips—one on either seam—offers ample stash space. The Nehru-esque collar also lets you layer without feeling over-stuffed at the neck—another great cycle-specific feature.

The Champ jacket ($165) uses many of the same features, including the extended hem for full coverage and the dual-access rear cargo pocket—a great way to quickly stash gloves, a hat, or whatever sundry wear you might shed. Pair it with the chest pocket (with mp3 wire port) and an inside pocket, and you've got plenty of storage. The jacket is constructed of a Schoeller-treated soft shell fabric that's water- and wind-resistant; perfect for brisk days that start cold, turn warm, and spit rain in the evening (though for colder winter days you may long for a windproof garment). Again, it's the cycle-specific features that make this urban-chic jacket really stand out, from cuffs that can be buttoned back to reveal reflective fabric to zippered vents that reach from underarm to elbow to a unique drop tail that's trimmed with reflectors, which can be folded up and secured with the inspired use of carefully placed magnets. Its fashion-forward profile makes it easy to transfer from the ride home to a night of bar-hopping—without wearing the urban equivalent of an orange safety vest.

Finally, as any cyclist knows, the brisk winds of spring mean cold air while pedaling. And despite the hipster angst against helmets, ever since I got hit by a car, I wear one any time I'm on bike. But that doesn't keep me warm. And so, for those colder days, I rely on Icebreaker's Quantum Headliner ($35), a snug layer that fits comfortably under the helmet. The merino wool turns the brisk a.m. breeze into a warm whisper, the drop cuff nicely protects the ears, and the reflective band adds yet another touch of subtle yet necessary safety. Skiers and boarders take note: the Quantum Headliner also does similar duty under a ski helmet when the conditions turn arctic.