Castelli Cycling is an Italian performance cycling apparel brand recognised globally for its aerodynamic jerseys, bib shorts, jackets, gloves, and triathlon clothing. Rooted in a tailoring tradition dating back to 1876, Castelli has evolved into one of the most influential names in modern cycling kit, credited with introducing technical innovations that transformed how professional cyclists dress and compete.[1]

The brand is instantly identifiable by its iconic white scorpion logo set within a red circle, a symbol representing speed, technical innovation, and racing heritage. Castelli is currently headquartered in Fonzaso, Veneto, Italy, and operates under Manifattura Valcismon S.p.A., a group that also manages other technical sportswear brands.[2]

[1]

Origins: Vittore Gianni tailoring house (1876–1930s)

The history of Castelli traces back to 1876, when Milanese tailor Vittore Gianni opened a clothing workshop in Milan. The business was not originally a cycling brand; it produced high-quality garments for wealthy clients, sporting organisations, football clubs, and cultural institutions, including AC Milan, Juventus FC, and the Milan ballet.[1]

During the early 20th century, the company began manufacturing cycling clothing. Among its first notable cycling clients was Alfredo Binda, one of the pre-war era’s greatest riders.[1]

The Castelli family era

Armando Castelli takes over (1935–1970s)

Armando Castelli joined Vittore Gianni’s company in 1935. Four years later, in 1939, he purchased the business and shifted its focus towards cycling.[1]

Under Armando’s leadership, the company supplied clothing to legendary cyclists, including:

• Gino Bartali
• Fausto Coppi
• Louison Bobet
• Rik Van Looy
• Jacques Anquetil

During this period, Castelli became synonymous with the golden age of European road racing.[1]

Birth of the modern Castelli brand (1974)

The modern Castelli brand emerged under the direction of Armando’s son, Maurizio Castelli. A passionate cyclist himself, Maurizio believed that cycling clothing should be treated as performance equipment rather than simple sportswear. In 1974, he established the Castelli brand and introduced the now-famous scorpion logo. His philosophy centred on combining aerodynamics, comfort, lightweight materials, professional racing feedback, and Italian design.[3]

Castelli’s reputation is largely built upon a series of technical breakthroughs that redefined industry standards.

1977 — First Lycra cycling shorts

Castelli introduced aerodynamic Lycra® shorts for both racing and public sale. At the time, most cycling shorts were still made from wool. The adoption of Lycra offered superior elasticity, improved aerodynamics, lower weight, and greater comfort. This innovation played a pivotal role in transforming modern cycling apparel.[1]

1981 — First coloured Lycra shorts

At the 1981 Giro d’Italia, Castelli-sponsored riders appeared in coloured Lycra shorts instead of the traditional black. This move challenged cycling’s conservative clothing conventions and generated significant attention within the peloton.[1]

1983 — Sublimation printing

Castelli pioneered sublimation printing for cycling jerseys, a technology that allowed for complex graphics, sponsor logos integrated directly into the fabric, and more vibrant designs. This process subsequently became standard throughout professional cycling.[1]

1984 — Thermal cycling clothing

The brand developed early functional thermal cycling clothing, enabling riders to compete more effectively in cold-weather races such as Paris–Roubaix.[1]

1990s — Aerodynamic development

Throughout the 1990s, Castelli continued to advance product development with aerodynamic skinsuits, advanced seat pads, women’s cycling collections, and performance fabrics. At the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, Castelli supplied advanced aerodynamic suits used by successful cycling athletes.[1]

Maurizio Castelli died in 1995 at the age of 47 after suffering a heart attack while cycling on the Cipressa climb during the Milan–San Remo route.[1]

His influence on cycling apparel remains profound. Many concepts now considered standard—tight aerodynamic clothing, technical fabrics, integrated padding, and race-focused designs—were accelerated by his approach to product development.[3]

Ownership by Manifattura Valcismon

In 2003, Castelli became part of Manifattura Valcismon, an Italian technical sportswear company based in Veneto. Under this ownership, the company continued to develop Castelli as a premium cycling performance brand.[3]

Castelli has supplied clothing to numerous professional teams and major events, including:

• Giro d’Italia leader jerseys
• Tour de France-related cycling apparel projects
• Professional road teams
• Triathlon athletes

The brand has also partnered with high-level teams such as Cervélo TestTeam, Team Sky, INEOS Grenadiers, and Soudal Quick-Step.[2]

Road cycling

Castelli’s most recognised category encompasses aero race jerseys, bib shorts, race gloves, windproof jackets, rain protection gear, and winter cycling clothing. These products are designed around the specific needs of professional racing: reducing drag, managing temperature, and improving comfort over long distances.

Triathlon

Castelli also produces triathlon equipment, including tri suits, speed suits, and aerodynamic race clothing. The brand is used by elite triathletes and endurance athletes worldwide.[2]

Castelli products frequently feature proprietary technologies, including:

• Gabba — a highly influential aerodynamic rain/wind jersey concept
• Nano Flex — water-resistant thermal fabric technology
• Free Aero Race — performance bib short platform
• Prosecco — moisture management fabric treatment
• Aero Race — aerodynamic racing apparel line

[1]

Castelli’s identity is built on the premise that cycling clothing should actively improve performance. The company emphasises innovation over tradition, testing with professional riders, Italian design heritage, and racing-driven development. Maurizio Castelli’s belief that true innovation stems from firsthand understanding of cycling remains central to the brand’s image.[1]

Among cyclists, Castelli is generally regarded as a premium performance cycling brand, positioned alongside companies such as Rapha, Assos, and Santini. Its strongest reputation lies in race-oriented fit, aerodynamic clothing, professional-level technology, and Italian craftsmanship. Reflecting its professional racing heritage, Castelli’s race-focused cuts can feel more aggressive and tighter than those of many casual cycling brands.

1. Our history – Castelli Cycling
2. Castelli (brand)
3. Castelli History | Castelli | InsiderNews