IF you are seeking something a little different, then maybe look towards US brand Ornot.

The San Francisco cycling brand are making a push into Europe and they're coming to a road near you.

Ornot say their homegrown kit eschews the flashy in favour of the functional.

The Northern Echo:

But I'd argue the Ornot Mens Navy Line House jersey (£100) can more than hold its own when it comes to some of the brighter apparel on the market.

Granted, it's not festooned with logos or meaningless slogans, but its colourscheme is far from that of a shrinking violet.

The basis light blue is complimented by a plethora of darker horizontal pinstripes.

Shortsleeved, the extreme of the left arm features a flag-like trim consisting of an orange strip with Ornot in small print, a dark blue band pitted with tiny triangles and a light blue stripe with diagonal stripes. That design is repeated in a thumbnail size badge on the right breast.

On the back of the neck are the words Made In California separated by an outline of the Golden State, while at the bottom are three decent sized pockets, again in the dark blue and triangle design.

Lightweight at 113gms, it has an elasticated figure-hugging feel to it which served to accentuate the fact that I like the odd beer now and then.

The front is elastane, while the back and side panels are plush polyester, adding a cooling element to the outfit. The sleeves feature comfort grippers, while there's a full length locking zipper to keep out any chill on these cooler mornings.

It offers a comfortable fit that moves with your body as you negotiate twists and turns.

Complimenting the top are Ornot's House Bib Shorts (£120).

A professional standard garment for the keen amateur, they are made from nylon and Lycra with flat lock seams. The front is lower to aid breathing and ensure the wearer does not feel constrained within.

Black with white trim on the upper portion, the bib shorts have a simple blue portion on the on the left leg, sticking with the less is more company ethos.

Again, they feel secure yet unintrusive, you know you have got them on, but you are not constantly reminded of the fact.