The Commuting Essentials of 2015

Published May 14, 2015 12:00AM

Kitsbow Drifter jeans

Though it looks like a classic pair of five-pocket jeans, the Drifter ($230) has loads of clever, bike-specific details. We love the hidden articulation in the knee for flex, the Lycra and nylon for durability and stretch, and the reflective print on the inside left leg. kitsbow.com

De Marchi Tradition shirt

The Tradition’s ($159) cotton weave is soft and the styling dapper, but what we really love about this woven jersey are the subdued rear pockets, which honor its cycling heritage. demarchi.com

Chrome Industries Mirko shoes

Built with a rubber sole that’s heat-forged onto the canvas upper, this tough urban sneaker ($85) will tolerate years of rolling to work. The reflective heel is a nice touch. chromeindustries.com

Smith Lowdown sunglasses

These understated shades ($209) pair sophisticated urban frames with Smith’s Chroma-Pop lenses, which heighten color and clarity. The result is a safer ride—and a more inspiring view. smithoptics.com

Specialized Flux Elite light

This rechargeable headlamp ($175) seems much brighter than its 400 lumens suggest, thanks to a reflector design that widens its range. The sturdy quick-release bar mount keeps the beam pointed where you want it and makes the light easy to pop off when you lock up the bike. specialized.com

Sahn Classic helmet

Sahn’s lids ($129) are designed in Vancouver and have a ratcheting fit system just like you’d find on performance helmets. The clean lines, muted color options, and simple styling trade the aggressive, teched-out racer aesthetic for equestrian chic. sahn.cc

Brompton Game Bag

Designed by British luggage maker John Chapman, this rubber-lined canvas-and-leather briefcase ($400) reimagines the vintage game bag by incorporating a padded laptop sleeve and two zippered bellows pockets. brompton.com

Nau Riding Jacket

Updated for 2015 with a trim cut, hidden pocket, and soft DWR-treated polyester fabric, Nau’s blazer ($235) is dressy enough for a board meeting and smooth enough for the bar, yet still impervious to rain. nau.com