Announcing New Partnership with Pearl Izumi

Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY28 and PEARL iZUMi Reunite Through 2028 to Drive the Next Generation of Speed Performance

Roanoke, VA January 20, 2026 — Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY28 is proud to announce a renewed partnership with PEARL iZUMi, extending through 2028. This collaboration brings together two pioneers dedicated to performance, innovation, and advancing the science of speed in cycling.

PEARL iZUMi has long been recognized for its leadership in technical apparel innovation and environmental responsibility. The brand is committed to achieving net-positive environmental impact by 2030, with over 90% of its current line made from recycled, renewable, or organic materials and a goal to completely eliminate virgin polyester. Its “Pedal to Zero” initiative quantifies the carbon offset achieved by riding bikes, while the Repair & Reuse program extends product life and reduces waste — demonstrating that high performance and sustainability can go hand in hand.

The partnership rekindles a successful collaboration — TWENTY28 previously worked with PEARL iZUMi during the build-up to the London Games and Rio 2016 developing new aerodynamic fabrics tested in the San Diego Wind Tunnel for three-time Olympic Champion Kristin Armstrong. Those early efforts helped redefine performance standards in time trial racing.

“We’re excited to reunite with Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY28 through the 2028. Years ago, our partnership pushed the boundaries of aerodynamic apparel and helped support medal-winning performances on the world’s biggest stage. That same athlete-driven innovation mindset fuels this renewed collaboration, and we’re committed to once again developing speed solutions that give these athletes every possible advantage when it matters most,” said Gabe Rivera, Sports Marketing Manager at PEARL iZUMi.

Building on that legacy, Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY28 athletes and PEARL iZUMi’s design team will now collaborate on next-generation speed clothing, focusing on time trial, track, and other precision-based disciplines. This partnership will emphasize real-world testing, athlete feedback, and continuous refinement of advanced technologies such as laser-cut construction, bonded seams, minimal panel design, and comfort systems like PRO Transfer and PI Dry for optimal performance in all conditions.

Photo above: Emmi on the Shootout by Resul Kurtbedin Photography

“PEARL iZUMi has always been a brand that listens to athletes — they don’t just design in the lab, they design in the wind tunnel, on the track, and out on the road,” said Nicola Cranmer. “We’ve worked together successfully before, and I’m looking forward to building on that legacy as we collaborate on the next generation of aerodynamic apparel that blends innovation, comfort, and sustainability.”