All Arround MTB

This is another deceptively simple-looking jersey that scores highly because of the performance of the fabric. It’s lightweight, with a high degree of stretch and a long, slim fit that still allows unrestricted movement on the bike. The fabric has a smooth feel, wicks superbly and dries quickly. It sounds (and feels, at first) like it’ll be delicate but close inspection reveals a dense surface designed for abrasion resistance. Unbelieving, we tested it on a spiky hedge and it survived unscathed. While it’s not the cheapest tech tee, it’s by no means expensive, and in our view it’s worth investing the extra tenner or so to get a top that successfully combines lightweight hot-weather performance with the hardier durability usually associated with heavier materials. Price $75

This part-insulated version of Gore’s Power Trail jacket mixes their water-repellent Windstopper fabric with strategically-placed PrimaLoft Gold insulation. It puts the weatherproofing and insulation where you need it most, and joins it all up with highly breathable stretch panels. While it warms up quickly as you start riding, it doesn’t let you overheat, so it’s good for stop/start days. The fit is slim but not tight, with a drop hem, and allows complete range of movement, while the snug collar is higher than most. It has two zipped hand pockets and a chest pocket. We like the cut and construction of the sleeves and cuffs, which works perfectly with winter gloves to avoid gapping or bunching. This jacket's outstanding performance means we’ll be wearing it all winter, on and off the bike. Weight 439g Price $330

In a field of not just good but very good jackets, the Power Trail nudges ahead because, having worn everything else, we found ourselves coming back to it. Simply put, it just feels right. The cut is immaculate. Underarm fit seems to be the hardest thing to get right on a bike jacket, but this is perfect – raise your arms and the body of the jacket stays put. The shape of the arms means they articulate with yours in the riding position. With a semi-fitted cut, there’s enough room to add layers but it doesn’t feel baggy if you don’t. Gore’s construction quality is always high, but the detailing here is also impressive. The hood is designed to go under rather than over a helmet, with a stretch inner band and narrow turn-back on the outer that channels water down and away from your face. Once we tried it, we were converted to the under-lid design, which felt better than even the best-cut over-helmet alternatives. The zip pulls have been improved and made longer and the one chest poc

These are the most interesting shorts we’ve tried (and possibly the most expensive too). Consisting of a pair of bib shorts with a baggy outer shell attached, they’re a hybrid construction of the combination that riders who put in a lot of cross-country miles tend to wear most days. And it works.

DESPITE BEING A commuter jacket, this was the softshell we reached for every day this spring. The urban camo print and neon highlights make it stand out, but it’s the functionality that comes with those design details that really appeals.

SO GOOD The ALP-X 3.0s are the most breathable and waterproof shorts on test. They'll stave off heavy downpours and keep your bum dry even when you're really working hard.

WE’D BE THE first to agree tha t 200$ sounds like an eyewatering amount of money to spend on something that’s going to get covered in mud.