At Kalas we serve a diverse variety of customer types, who have at least one thing in common - they all love cycling and want to create their own custom designed cycle clothing. These include individuals, small groups of friends, clubs, teams, companies, charities, and events. In our series Customer Stories, some of them tell us how we helped them achieve their objectives and highlight the aspects of Kalas’ service that they benefitted from the most.
Sport has always been a cornerstone of life in the British Army, building physical fitness, mental resilience, teamwork, and leadership—qualities that translate directly into operational effectiveness. Within this framework, the Army Cycling Union (ACU), founded in 1950, represents a unique blend of tradition, performance, and community, bringing together soldiers, veterans, and families through a shared passion for cycling. Today, the ACU supports around 1,000 members across all ranks and Corps, fostering participation in nine cycling disciplines and providing structure, coaching, competition, and a strong sense of belonging for everyone from elite representative teams to recreational riders.
“Sport is the backbone of the British Army,” an Army Cycling Union committee representative explains. “It directly contributes to soldier fitness, mental resilience, teamwork, and leadership, while also offering a positive outlet for stress and building esprit de corps.”
A Long Military Cycling Heritage
Cycling has deep roots in the British Army. As early as the 1880s, bicycle units were used for reconnaissance and communication. During the First World War, the Army Cyclist Corps formalised this role, with an estimated 100,000 soldiers using bicycles in various capacities. Although the Corps was disbanded in 1920, the bicycle never disappeared from military use. Today, modern eMTBs once again prove the tactical and practical value of cycling.
The Army Cycling Union proudly carries this heritage forward, combining historical awareness with modern training, competition, and innovation.
Nine Disciplines, One Challenge
Supporting nine cycling disciplines—from road racing and time trials to BMX and downhill mountain biking—poses a significant logistical challenge, particularly when it comes to equipment and apparel. Each discipline places different demands on fit, durability, and performance.
“Offering cycling kit to all nine disciplines within Army Cycling is difficult for any supplier to facilitate,” an Army Cycling Union committee representative notes, “but not for Kalas.”
The breadth of the product range played a key role in the decision to change suppliers. The ACU needed a partner capable of outfitting elite athletes and casual club riders alike, without compromising on quality or consistency.
“Kalas offer an extensive range which meant we were able to kit out every level of cycling within the Army—from our elite representative teams to casual club riders, from MTB downhill to road.”
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Quality That Stands Up to Use
Beyond range, quality was decisive. Samples, testing, and feedback from existing customers quickly confirmed that the materials and construction met the demands of military athletes.
“Having received samples and gathered feedback, we quickly decided that the quality was second to none,” an Army Cycling Union committee representative says. “The fabric options suited every need and seemed to withstand most crashes.”
Rachel, Women’s Road Team Manager, highlights the difference immediately felt by riders:
“Feedback from the team is that Kalas apparel is far superior to previous suppliers. It fits much better, is more comfortable, and looks better.”
For BMX racing, where fit and aerodynamics are critical, the response has been equally positive.
“The quality and fit of the race jerseys is top notch,” says Tom, BMX Team Manager. “They’re slim, aero, and very professional. The fit is in line with modern elite race jerseys and would work well for other disciplines looking for an aerodynamic cut.”
Real Riders, Real Experience
Individual riders have echoed these impressions. James Greig praises both the ordering process and the performance of the kit:
“The site was super easy to navigate and intuitive. The layout with kit images made it clear exactly what you were ordering—a massive improvement on the previous provider.”
On the road, the kit has delivered consistently.
“The quality is world class. The mixed materials across the panels create a unique fit. After a couple of hundred miles, there’s nothing I don’t like about the feel.”
He also highlights thoughtful design details, such as compression sleeves that hold their position without traditional grippers, and a high-visibility gilet that combines safety with year-round usability.
Phil Carr shares a similar experience:
“Very easy to navigate from start to finish. The kit is top quality, and the sizing is spot on. This was my first ACU kit purchase, and I’m genuinely impressed.”
Ordering Made Simple
For a club of this size, ease of ordering is essential. A modern, adaptable club shop allows members to distinguish clearly between official club kit and wider product offerings.
“Very easy, simple to use,” Rachel confirms. “It’s good to have clear differentiation between club kit and the wider Kalas products.”
Support has also proven reliable.
“Not that we’ve needed it much,” the ACU adds, “but when we have, support and aftercare have been prompt and effective.”
More Than a Kit
For the Army Cycling Union, cycling apparel is more than clothing. It is a practical tool, a symbol of identity, and a reflection of professionalism. By combining tradition, performance, and dependable service, the ACU ensures its riders can focus on what matters most—training, racing, and representing the Army with pride, on and off the bike.
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