BikeNZ has signed a million dollar sponsorship deal that will put Kiwi cyclists in the latest technology-driven cycling clothing for next month's Commonwealth Games. BikeNZ today released details of the three-year deal with Skins which has a retail value of more than a $1 million. BikeNZ High Performance Director, Mark Elliott said the sponsorship will provide their elite riders with not only cutting edge competitive gear but also post-race and training gear to aid recovery.

'The science behind Skins is irrefutable. In terms of our track programme, it is often measured in 1000ths of a second and the apparel will provide us with an edge in terms of aerodynamic qualities, performance and recovery.

''Importantly the Skins research shows that their compression wear significantly aids muscle recovery which is a vital factor during competition, during road tours and during long training campaigns.

''The company is involved in cutting edge scientific testing to further develop their dynamic gradient compression wear which means that we will be the beneficiaries going forward.

''It’s an important sponsorship for our riders at all levels and we look forward to many successes with SKINS at World Championship, Commonwealth Games and Olympic competition.''

Skins was developed in Australia in 1996 when the company embarked on the challenge to create a sports garment that aided recovery and improved performance. It has become Australia’s leading compression brand and has seen the company grow into a global brand, with its headquarters now based in Switzerland.

More recently the company has worked with scientists to develop a wearable dynamic pressure monitoring device to accurately test the effects of compression wear under load. This new device, widely accepted in the scientific community, has led to the development of SKINS latest dynamic gradient compression apparel providing more accurate compression and a more comfortable fit to improve sports performance and physiological impact.

The new BikeNZ cycle clothing and compression garments are currently being tested by the New Zealand track team who are training in Bordeaux in preparation for the Commonwealth Games.