LA NOSTRA STORIA
Since 1965, Santini has accompanied generations of cyclists with cutting-edge technical apparel, combining artisanal expertise with continuous technological research. This journey retraces the key milestones, highlighting the pivotal moments that transformed a small Italian workshop into a global reference point for those who live cycling with heart and passion.
1965
WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
In September 1965, Pietro Santini founded Santini Maglificio Sportivo and registered the SMS logo, designed to represent a cycling jersey. Together with his sisters, he began production in a small garage in Dalmine. Here, between the workshop and the nearby velodrome, a passion for cycling took shape that would become the heart and soul of the company and the Santini family.
1977
NEW FABRICS AND THE FIRST INTERNATIONAL SPONSORSHIPS
In the late 1970s, Santini introduced synthetic yarns such as polyamide and polyester, blended with wool to create lighter, more durable and technical fabrics. At the same time, the sponsorship of Peugeot–Esso–Michelin opened the doors to France and England, marking the beginning of Santini’s international journey and its evolution into a global brand.
1981
THE INTRODUCTION OF FLOCKING
In the early 1980s, the growing number of sponsors created a need for new ways to apply logos to team kits. Santini introduced flocking, a technique that uses an electric field to apply microfibres to fabric. Faster, more precise and lighter than traditional embroidery, it met the evolving demands of cycling without compromising garment performance.
1984
LA VIE CLAIRE AND THE PRINTING REVOLUTION
In 1984, Santini created the legendary La Vie Claire jersey, inspired by the art of Piet Mondrian and destined to become a cycling icon. Around the same time, dye-sublimation printing revolutionised production, transferring colours directly into the fabric fibres for sharper, longer-lasting graphics with greater precision and speed. An innovative technology for a design that made cycling history.
1988
THE FIRST RAINBOW JERSEY
Santini became the official supplier of the UCI World Champions’ rainbow jerseys and World Cup leader jerseys. That same year, Maurizio Fondriest won the road world title in Ronse wearing the first Santini-made rainbow jersey. A landmark moment that strengthened the brand’s international reputation and began an enduring connection with cycling at the highest level.
1993
SANTINI AND THE MAGLIA ROSA: A NEW ERA BEGINS
In 1993, Santini became the technical sponsor of the Giro d’Italia and the exclusive manufacturer of the iconic Maglia Rosa, worn that year by overall winner Miguel Induráin. It marked the beginning of a partnership that would last until 2017: more than two decades of pink jerseys proudly made in Lallio, embodying Santini’s Italian craftsmanship and deep connection with professional cycling.
1998
THE YEAR OF IL PIRATA
In 1998, Santini supplied the Mercatone Uno team and Marco Pantani during his historic Giro d’Italia–Tour de France double. The yellow-and-blue kit and his famous bandana became symbols of an achievement that captivated cycling fans. An unforgettable year that cemented Pantani’s place in sporting history and forever linked Santini to one of Italian cycling’s most memorable chapters.
2000
GLOBAL EXCELLENCE WITH AUSCYCLING
In 2000, Santini began its partnership with AusCycling, supporting the Australian national team on its journey to Olympic medals, world titles and world records. Experience gained alongside elite athletes continues to drive Santini’s research and development, bringing the same standards of innovation, performance and comfort from the world’s greatest competitions to cyclists everywhere.
2012
GRANFONDO STELVIO SANTINI AND A GIRO EPIC
In 2012, Thomas De Gendt conquered the Stelvio in one of the Giro d’Italia’s most memorable stage victories, before finishing third overall in Milan. That same year saw the launch of Granfondo Stelvio Santini, now La Stelvio Santini, bringing thousands of cyclists to the legendary Mortirolo and Stelvio climbs and turning the thrill of professional racing into a challenge open to everyone.
2015
50 YEARS OF HISTORY AND THE SPIRIT OF L’EROICA
In 2015, Santini celebrated 50 years of history and five decades of jerseys that helped shape cycling. The anniversary coincided with a partnership with L’Eroica, an event that embodies the timeless spirit of the sport. To mark the occasion, Santini revived traditional production techniques to create a wool collection inspired by historic designs: a celebration of its heritage made to be worn.
2018
IMPACT AND TREK-SEGAFREDO
In 2018, Santini began its partnership with Trek-Segafredo and introduced Impact, the first cycling bib shorts made with Dyneema fibres, developed to deliver lightweight comfort, stretch and protection. Research also continued on the Vega winter collection with Polartec, designed for the harshest conditions. Innovations tested where they matter most: in competition, where performance and protection are put to the ultimate test.
2022
FROM THE YELLOW JERSEY TO VICTORY IN KONA
In 2022, Santini became an official partner of the Tour de France, producing the iconic leader jerseys of cycling’s most prestigious stage race. That same year, Gustav Iden won the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona wearing the Viper suit. Two milestones driven by the same ambition: bringing Italian innovation, performance and craftsmanship to the highest levels of cycling and endurance sport.
2023
A NEW HOME & LIDL-TREK
In 2023, Santini returned to the heart of Bergamo, transforming a historic factory into a modern campus where production, creativity and people come together, surrounded by green space. That same year, Trek-Segafredo became Lidl-Trek, opening a new chapter in the partnership with an international team that shares Santini’s commitment to excellence, innovation, sustainability and the next generation.
2025
60 YEARS OF HISTORY, LOOKING AHEAD
In 2025, Santini celebrated its 60th anniversary, marking six decades of passion, innovation and dedication to cycling. In 2026, that journey continues with Momentum Series, a collection created in collaboration with Mads Pedersen. A project bringing together experience, performance and contemporary vision, carrying Santini’s heritage forward into the future.