Team AMANI
Team AMANI’s 2026 kit dives deep into a legacy of printing and weaving to capture the beauty of the craft on the canvas of our finest performance apparel.
What is the inspiration behind the Rapha Amani cycling collection?
The Rapha Amani collection is a tribute to East African heritage and the pioneering spirit of Team AMANI. The 2026 designs draw from traditional textile crafts, including the Kenyan Kanga and Congolese Kuba cloth, featuring motifs like the Adey Abeba flower — an Ethiopian symbol of luck and new beginnings. By incorporating intentional irregularities into the patterns, the kit mimics the authentic feel of hand-woven fabrics. The collection celebrates the region's rich culture while supporting AMANI’s mission to create pathways for East African athletes to reach the pinnacle of professional cycling.
Is the Amani kit designed for professional racing or casual riding?
The collection is built on our elite Pro Team platform, meaning it is engineered for high-level performance. The Amani Pro Team Aero Jersey features a wind-tunnel-tested, compressive fit and Italian Clima fabrics designed to minimise drag at high speeds. For those seeking versatility, the Amani Training Jersey offers a slightly more relaxed but still aerodynamic silhouette, ideal for high-tempo club rides and long-distance training. Whether you are tackling a local criterium or a gravel adventure, these performance cycling tops provide the moisture-wicking and breathability required for elite-level efforts.
Does purchasing Amani kit support the team’s development projects?
Yes, every purchase from the Rapha + Team AMANI range directly contributes to the growth of cycling in East Africa. A portion of the profits is reinvested into the team and its infrastructure, including AMANI House in Iten, Kenya. This centre of excellence serves as a high-performance base for the Black Mamba Development Squad, providing young athletes with the coaching, equipment, and travel support needed to compete internationally. By wearing this limited-edition cycling kit, you are actively supporting a movement dedicated to making global cycling more equitable and inclusive.
How does the Amani jersey perform in hot weather conditions?
Engineered for the demanding climates of East Africa, the Amani cycling jerseys excel in mild to hot conditions. The technical fabrics used in the Pro Team range are highly breathable and designed to accelerate sweat evaporation, keeping your core temperature stable during intense efforts. The Lightweight Training Jersey features a non-perforated front panel for wind protection and a gridded back fabric that allows excess heat to escape. With integrated UV protection and lightweight mesh detailing, these jerseys ensure you stay cool and dry when the mercury rises between 18°C and 32°C.
What is the recommended fit for the Amani Pro Team collection?
As part of our Pro Team range, the Amani collection is designed with a Race Fit. This means the cycling jerseys are cut short at the front to avoid bunching when tucked over the handlebars and use elasticated grippers to maintain a streamlined profile. The fit is close-fitting and compressive to maximise aerodynamic efficiency and support the muscles. If you prefer a slightly less restrictive feel for everyday riding, we generally recommend sizing up. Always refer to our size guide to ensure your technical cycling apparel provides the perfect balance of comfort and speed.