LA SWEAT
As we celebrate LA Sweat’s impressive achievement in its tenth season of women’s cycling, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the remarkable journey of this pioneering team and the exceptional achievements of its talented athletes. Founded by Kelli Samuelson, a passionate fan of both fashion and cycling, LA Sweat has seamlessly fused these two worlds, creating a unique and powerful platform for female cyclists. We at Santini Cycling are honored to design their kits and be a part of their inspiring story.
How did your team/project come about?
LA Sweat was founded ten years ago with a clear mission: to revolutionize women’s cycling by providing opportunities, breaking down barriers, and redefining the perception of the sport. Founded in Los Angeles, the team initially consisted of a group of cyclists primarily from the city. Over time, LA Sweat has expanded to include athletes from various countries, embracing a global perspective. This diversity not only enriches cultural exchange but also strengthens the team’s commitment to promoting women’s cycling globally.
What are the values and mission of your team/project?
At the heart of LA Sweat’s philosophy is the belief that cycling is for everyone. The team aims to encourage women to stop making excuses and not be afraid to get out and ride. In a culture often dominated by power profiles, recovery shorts, and carbon bottle cages, LA Sweat reminds us that bikes are fun, riding is fun, and racing is fun. Our mission goes beyond competitive success; it’s about building a supportive community for women passionate about the sport and inspiring more women to take up cycling.
How do you plan to influence the cycling community?
LA Sweat’s influence on the cycling community is profound. By consistently competing at the highest levels and making a name for ourselves in races around the world, we demonstrate that women’s cycling deserves to be front and center. Our commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive environment has led to over 50 women joining the team over the past decade, each bringing unique backgrounds and experiences. The team has not only carved out its own niche in a traditionally male-dominated sport, but has also pioneered a new era in women’s cycling.
Through community engagement and presence in national magazines and popular blogs, LA Sweat continues to challenge stereotypes and inspire women to pursue their cycling dreams. Our social media presence, with over 70,000 followers, helps us further spread our message of empowerment and fun.
What was the inspiration behind your kit’s design? Is there a particular story behind it?
The LA Sweat kit design fully expresses the team’s identity and vision. Recognizing that style and performance can coexist, we guided the design process by infusing the team’s kits with a sense of sophistication and elegance.
Each kit is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring it meets the highest standards of comfort and performance. The vibrant colors and bold patterns embody the team’s dynamic spirit and our commitment to making an impact, both on and off the bike. Our kit embodies LA Sweat’s philosophy that cycling should be enjoyable, stylish, and inclusive.
Conclusions
As LA Sweat enters its second decade, the impact it has had on women’s cycling is undeniable. Through a combination of athletic prowess, creative innovation, and unwavering determination, this team continues to inspire cyclists around the world to pursue their dreams and push the limits of what’s possible on a bike.