If you were a mountain biker in Canada in the late 90s (or early 2000s) you’ll remember Roach. The iconic label founded by the late Ingrid Doerr was synonymous with the Shore’s rise to global prominence. If you were riding hard back in the day you probably had, or wished you had, gear from Roach keeping you safe, dry or both.
Wade Simmons in his element. Photo: Sterling Lorence
Race Face bought the Roach name way back in 2001. Now, after a few years away from making much apparel of its own, Race Face is bringing the Road name back. But just for casual clothes and only for a limited run.
And, if you want THE vest, you’ll have to look elsewhere.
Lucy van Eesteren bringing modern style to retro Roach look. Photo: Sterling Lorence
To fit with the OG Roach vibes, while mixing in the current 90s retro craze, Race Face brings together two generations of talent. The release is shot by none other than Sterling Lawrence, the man behind the lens of much of the 90s most iconic North Shore imagry. Wade Simmons isn’t just in the shoot, he’s back on elevated, skinny and frightening features. Those two icons of the sport join Vancouver’s own Lucy van Eesterern and Luc Prentice to show off this limited run of gear.
Check out the full line of Race Face x Roach apparel, from shirts to hats to hoodies. Then go try dig out that stem pad from some deep hidden corner of your garage.
Lucy Van Eesteren. Photo: Sterling Lorence