Written by Steven Turner
The Hjul Wax Cotton Jacket is a beautiful piece of minimalist design with a simple yet focused attention to detail
What they say: Scandinavian simplicity meets commuter classic in Hjul’s this minimalistic piece of authentic cycling clothing, which has been created with 100% wax cotton and is completely water and windproof.
What it is: Jumping squarely into the post-hipster Scandinavian workman trend is bike clothing firm Hjul (Norwegian for wheel), a new brand distributed exclusively in the UK by East London’s Brick Lane Bikes.
Front and centre of Hjul’s latest line is its new Wax Cotton Jacket which, like the rest of its accompanying range of shirts and trousers, is a beautiful piece of minimalist design with a simple yet focused attention to detail as expected from our Nordic neighbours. Clean pockets, prominent buttons and looping rope pull strings give the piece a formal feel, which sit alongside a subtle reflective strip hidden in back pleat that only reveals itself when leaning over to grab the handlebar. A back pocket with a semi-automatic lock puller and integrated strap that makes it easy for the wearer to access the pocket when cycling is a secret highlight, and its this combination of style and subtlety that make the jacket usable rather than a pure piece of fashion.
That’s not to say that this isn’t a practical piece of cycling apparel, made with 100% cotton wax material the jacket is windproof and waterproof, and sports a removable hood to give rainy day options while both the collar and elbows are reinforced with corduroy. The cut is a little on the loose side and breathability is an issue for any cycling that veers a little more towards hearty competition, but these matter little as the jacket is aimed solely at the discerning commuter rather than the racing fraternity. Hjul Wax Cotton Jackets, available in rustic green, blue and orange, are undeniably stylish and unquestionably slick pieces of workman-like design beauty.
Who its good for: Discerning commuters taking a more leisurely approach to city riding and looking for a little Nordic styling
