BEST FOR: BUDGET CONSCIOUS BIKERS

The Tifosi Davos Cycling Sunglasses are a great choice when you’re looking for lots of options at a lower price point. They come with three different lens options that will suit the majority of light conditions. This package comes with a smoke lens, which has a darker grey tint suitable for bright daytime riding, a clear option for night riding, and a unique red lens which increases contrast – perfect for trail riding, especially when riding on dappled light trails in the middle of the afternoon. The adjustable nose piece means you can micro-adjust the fit for ultimate comfort, not to mention they get some style points for a low cost option too.

BEST FOR: BUDGET RIDERS WHO DON’T LIKE FOGGY LENSES

We’ve all been there — the trails are technical, your speed is reduced, and suddenly your glasses are fogged up and you can’t see anything in front of you. Well check out the Ryders Rockwork Anti-Fog Sunglasses, featuring a clear lens with anti-fog technology to keep your vision clear even when you’re huffing and puffing and accidentally fogging up your lenses. These sunglasses are also impact and scratch resistant, so they can definitely take a beating on the trail! Plus, they have an adjustable nose piece made from a super high tech material that actually grips to your skin when wet to stop them from sliding off your face. Not bad for a pair of glasses at this price point!

BEST FOR: CHANGING LIGHT CONDITIONS

Photochromic lenses are an endurance athlete’s best friend because no matter how the light conditions change throughout your long training sessions or races, these lenses will alter their tint to match the light. That means you don’t have to think about swapping lenses or choosing which glasses to use before you head out on the trails. They have all the features you would expect from a quality pair of sunglasses, including an adjustable nose piece and arms that allow you to find the perfect fit, a lightweight and impact resistant frame, and a scratch resistant lens. This is a quality pair of sunglasses that are a bit of a no-brainer for the avid mountain biker.

BEST FOR: MAXIMUM STYLE POINTS

Cycling sunglasses have never looked so good. The Shimano S-Phyre X Cycling Glasses look like a cross between sunglasses and goggles with a huge lens that provides superior eye coverage for sun protection and safety from flying debris. The Cloud Mirror Lens is suited to low light and daytime conditions making them perfect for riding shaded and open trails. The impact resistant yet lightweight frame features a removable bottom section so that you can customize the look of these sunglasses to make them your own.

BEST FOR: ALL DAY TRAIL RIDING

Oakley is one of the most well known and reputable brands in the sports sunglasses market and for good reason. Their range of sunglasses is truly impressive – with styles, colors, shapes and specificity to sport unmatched by virtually any other brand.

The Oakley EVZero Stride Cycling Sunglasses are made for mountain bikers, with a specific Prizm Trail Lens. This lens is designed with high definition and glare reduction technology to ensure you can clearly see the trail ahead when light conditions are varying – such as dappled light or low light. Plus these sunglasses are ultra lightweight and made from high tech and high quality materials giving further reason to check these out for your next pair of cycling sunglasses.

BEST FOR: WIDE OPEN TRAILS

Another big name, or should we say big number, that has launched head first into the cycling sunglass market is 100%. It’s no wonder they have made a big impression with their range of super cool and really high quality products. The 100% Glendale Sunglasses come in a range of colors so you can choose the one that best suits you and each is paired with two specific lens options. This pair offers you everything from a super dark lens that suits bright light and wide open trails through to a yellow lens for night riding. The large lens and frame style is great for maximum eye protection and also adds plenty of style too.

BEST FOR: ALL ROUND RIDING

These are one of the most popular sunglass styles from mountain biking pros to weekend warriors. The Oakley Radar EV sunglasses have been on the scene for years and are not going anywhere anytime soon. The Radar EV’s offer a sleek and timeless style that suits most face shapes and sizes. This particular model is even fitted with a mountain bike specific lens, the Prizm Trail. Designed for trail riding and dappled light conditions, they feature cut outs for ventilation to keep you cool and eliminate fogging. Lenses can be purchased separately and are easily interchangeable so you can use these for any style of riding you choose.

BEST FOR: RIDING IN THE WOODS

Worn by 3-time World Champion Mountain Biker Peter Sagan, you know these sunglasses are going to be pretty legit. Like most sunglasses from the 100% brand, these have maximum style points with their oversized frame and large lens, plus they are quality made to back it up. The lens featured in this model is a multilayer red which heightens color and contrast, making them the lens of choice for riding in low light conditions such as on wooded trails or when riding at dawn and dusk. Also included is a clear lens, so they are basically two pairs of sunglasses in one.

BEST FOR: BRIGHT SUNNY DAYS

If you’re a fair weather rider who prefers open trails and likes to mix it up with some road riding too, the POC Crave Sunglasses could be the right option for you. This pair comes with a dark lens that is best suited to bright daytime riding. The frame is designed to fit close to your face to stop debris from coming under the sunglasses. They also have proprietary Ripel Treatment that prevents fogging and grime when riding. The nose piece is made of a high tech rubber that stays firmly in place even when you’re sweating on those hard rides and hot summer days.

BEST FOR: HOT AND SWEATY BIKING

The ultimate in mountain biking sunglass technology is the Oakley Flight Jacket. These are designed specifically for those hot and sweaty rides when your sunglasses would usually fog up and impact your vision. They have a special tab in the middle of the sunglasses that you can flip up to increase the distance the sunglasses sit from your face to prevent fogging, plus they feature a semi-frameless design – where the top piece has no frame to further reduce fogging. These are a high tech piece of kit and the price tag does reflect this, but if fogging is a big problem for you, these sunglasses could be your solution.

BEST OVERALL MOUNTAIN BIKE GLOVE

These all-around full-finger gloves are as durable as they are grippy and designed to go the distance.

These high quality gloves feature a silicon grip paired with moisture-wicking technology. The Cross X are outfitted with synthetic suede palms, rubber knuckle guards, and hook and loop closure cuffs. The gloves are touch-screen compatible, making it easy to operate small personal devices while you’re wearing them.

What I like most about the Cross-X glove is the odor control treatment — Polygiene — that is applied to the fabric and keeps you smelling fresh when you’re riding hard.

BEST BUDGET MTB GLOVE

When you need high performance biking gloves and you don’t have a ton to spend, consider the $20 Trixters — you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Giro designed the Trixters as a basic glove that’s both convenient and comfortable. It’s strapless with a lycra cuff that helps secure the glove over the wrist. The synthetic AX Bolt fabric allows for a full range of motion and won’t feel like its obstructing your finger movement.

What I like most about the Trixter is how breathable they are, making them suitable for warm weather rides.

BEST DOWNHILL-SPECIFIC GLOVE

This is a basic mountain glove that offers the best combination of padded and lightweight, breathable protection.

Fox designed the Racing Ranger from a lightweight fabric that provides for plenty of stretchiness and breathability. The fingertips are covered with a silicon grip finish that ensures your fingers have plenty of purchase on the brake levers — much more grip than sweaty, bare hands allows for.

What I like most about the Fox Racing Ranger is that the fingertips are touchscreen compatible.

BEST FOR: WINTER MOUNTAIN BIKING

These gloves provide an excellent balance between warmth and breathability so your hands stay comfortable out on the trails. Designed with a 3 layer waterproof construction including a special waterproof removable insert, your hands will stay dry even if it’s raining cats and dogs or you’re in the midst of a blizzard.

Chunky winter gloves can be known to cause loss of feeling between the hands and handlebars. However, Sealskinz have eliminated this through the use of a sewn-in liner that doesn’t move, silicone grippers on the thumb and index finger to increase control, and pre-shaped finger panels for a better fit when holding handlebars. This is a really solid winter glove option if you ride all year round.

BEST WOMEN’S-SPECIFIC OPTION

If you have a hard time fitting unisex gloves or you just prefer the snugger women’s specific fit, consider the Elites.

Pearl iZUMi designed the Elite Gels to provide for full-finger protection and a bit of extra grip — in a minimalist package. The synthetic leather stretches four ways, allowing for plenty of movability, breathability, and sensitivity. As per its namesake, these gloves sport 3D shaped gel pads that make for a comfortable, secure grip on the handlebars.

What I like most about the Elite Gel gloves is the reflective elements included in the design to provide for low light visibility.

BEST FOR: LONG BUMPY RIDES

If sore hands are a problem for you when mountain biking, it’s worth checking out the Fox Ranger Gel Gloves. These gloves feature strategically placed gel panels on the palm to reduce impact on the hands when riding on rough terrain or for long periods of time. Touch screen compatible thread is woven into the fingers so you can check your phone or GPS without having to remove your gloves. These also feature a velcro closure which allows you to perfectly tighten the cuff to your liking.

BEST FOR: GRAVEL RIDES

Got a long gravel adventure in mind? Then the Giro Strada Dura Gloves are a good choice for you! Featuring super soft, yet durable suede palms and strategically placed dual layer gel padding, your hands will feel like they are holding fluffy pillows.

Made with high quality materials including breathable and 4-way stretch mesh, alongside a molded cuff with velcro tab closure, these are a really high quality glove. Compared to other padded gloves, the Giro Stradas were designed to eliminate any bulky or excess materials, leaving you with a glove that is super comfortable and lightweight.

BEST FOR: ENDURO RIDING

If you like to ride hard and fast downhill, you need a glove that can stand up to the task. Made from durable yet lightweight and breathable materials, these Dakine Sentinel Gloves are the perfect partner for heavy duty riding.

These gloves feature Dakine impact protection on the knuckles to reduce damage if your hand skims a tree and on the palm to reduce hand fatigue on rough terrain. The synthetic suede palm adds extra comfort and grip when riding. Pair that with a silicone print on the index and thumb for touch screen compatibility, and you’ll see that these gloves have everything you need to get out there and shred.

BEST FOR: COLD WEATHER

When less bulk and more warmth is required, the Castelli Tempesta 2 Gloves come to the rescue. This is a streamlined and sleek glove with a waterproof internal membrane and fleece liner to keep your hands dry and warm even in the coldest or wettest conditions.

The palm has an all over silicone grip pattern for maximum control on the handlebars and brake levers. A large reflective panel on the back provides extra visibility when riding in low-light conditions and the index finger and thumb feature a touch screen insert so you can check your phone and keep your hands warm at the same time.

BEST OVERALL SHORTS

If you’re in need of a quality pair of trail riding shorts that are functional and comfortable, consider the Skyline.

Troy Lee constructed the Skyline shorts with a slim, performance fit. The shorter than average inseam makes these especially pedal-compatible. There are plenty of zippered pockets, external waistband adjustments, reflective logos and DWR treatment to keep you dry in wet conditions. 

What I like most about the Troy Lee Designs Skyline is the chamois — it’s very well built.

BEST BUDGET SHORTS

For under $75, these shorts pack quite the punch. They’re versatile, comfortable, and not lacking for features.

Fox redesigned the Racing Ranger shorts with a comfortable, slim fit and integrated chamois liner. The shorts are constructed from 2-way stretch ripstop nylon and an articulated waistband makes it comfortable to pedal in these while you’re seated.

What I like most about the Ranger is the super secure waist closure system.

BEST PADDED LINER SHORTS

Whether you prefer layering under a baggier pair of mountain bike shorts or wearing a liner by itself, the Pearl iZUMi is comfortable and practical.

Pearl iZUMi designed this liner with a seamless chamois pad and a contoured elastic waistband that’s lower in the front and higher in the back to make for a comfortable pair of shorts meant to go the distance. Instead of silicone leg grippers, the wide part of the mesh is doubled over on the leg openings. The mesh body fabric provides for excellent breathability and a next to skin feel.

What I like most about the Pearl iZUMi cargo liner are the two thigh pockets included in the shorts for carrying small essentials.

BEST ULTRALIGHT SHORTS

If you’re a minimalist in need of mountain bike shorts that you’ll hardly notice you’re wearing, consider the Dirt Roamers.

Patagonia designed the Dirt Roamer Shorts from recycled 4-way stretch fabric. Welded seams in all the right places are effective at preventing chafing. The intuitive waist system can be adjusted as needed and the contoured waistband is designed to remain comfortable while you’re in a seated pedaling position.

What I like most about these shorts is how quick they are to dry after getting wet.

BEST FOR GRAVITY RIDERS

For gravity riders looking for a quality pair of shorts that are knee pad compatible, look to the Ruckus.

The Ruckus shorts are robustly constructed to provide for a relaxed, baggy look. They’re one of the most durable mountain bike shorts on the market and although heavy duty, the fabric still feels soft against your skin. The waistband features wide external adjustments that allow you to dial in the perfect fit. Although they’re not designed as the most pedal-friendly shorts on the market, they perform decently as trail shorts in addition to gravity rides.

What I like most about the Troy Lee Ruckus is how stylish they are, making for a pair of shorts you can wear on the mountain as well as in and around town.

BEST FOR: ENDURO (DOWNHILL) RIDING

Founded in 2005, POC Sports (or more commonly referred to as just POC) is a Swedish company that was founded to address and improve ski racing safety. This same technology was applied to other adventure sports which included mountain biking. The line now includes body armor, helmets, apparel, and eyewear.

These extremely durable and lightweight shorts are designed to protect the rider from the unforeseen dangers that await you around every turn. For enduro (downhill) riders or those seeking extra protection, the shorts are designed to accommodate knee pads under the shorts. Additional features include Velcro adjustments along the side to allow for a dialed-in fit and zippered side pockets to store all your essentials.

BEST FOR: BUDGET CONSCIOUS MOUNTAIN BIKERS

For over fifty years, Pearl Izumi has been a staple in the cycling industry for both professional racers and weekend warriors desiring to wear performance apparel. Founded in Japan, Pearl Izumi makes apparel and cycling shoes.

Featuring a standard chamois liner short, the Journey has a board-short styling with drawstring closure. The liner shorts are removable so when the ride is over, you can shed the chamois and enjoy a burger and brews before heading home. The two-way stretch fabric of the outer short has a durable water repellent (DWR) treatment to aid in keeping you dry throughout your ride.

BEST FOR: LONG DAYS IN THE SADDLE

A highly recognized name in the outdoor industry, Patagonia is consistently pushing the envelope in sustainability and environmental advocacy. In recent years, Patagonia expanded its line and returned to producing mountain biking apparel. We couldn’t be more excited!

The Dirt Craft shorts feature a 3-layer mountain-bike-specific padded liner short with a durable water repellent (DWR) treated outer short. This combination ensures comfort and protection for whatever the trail throws your way. The removable liner short can be easily removed. The baggie outer shorts are also compatible with other padded mountain bike shorts in the Patagonia line, including the Endless Ride liner shorts and bibs.

BEST FOR: ALL-DAY COMFORT

Founded in 1983 by Canadian road racing and track cyclist, Louis Garneau began making his now renowned brand of apparel and gear in his father’s garage. The Garneau brand expanded rapidly and is now an industry leader.

The Leeway liner shorts can be worn in conjunction with the outer short or as a standalone padded short for road riding. The padded liner short features memory foam for a comfortable ride. The outer shorts are made of trail-ready, abrasion resistant fabric. Adjustable tabs on the side of the shorts feature dual Velcro strips for dialing in the fit. The snap loop fastening system makes them compatible with other Garneau inner shorts and bibs.

BEST FOR: CASUAL TRAIL RIDING

Unlike the Pearl Izumi Journey Short, the Canyon is designed with a snap front closure and zip fly. The outer short is made of quick drying and moisture wicking fabric to keep you cool and dry on the trail. The casual styling makes it ideal for post ride activities as well. Dial in the fit with internal Velcro tabs. Detach the inner liner short for post ride activities.

BEST FOR: ALL DAY COMFORT

Featuring a side waistband hook and loop velcro, you’ll be able to micro adjust these shorts for the perfect fit around your waist. The padded inner short has a triple density foam chamois for extra comfort and is fully removable.

Multiple pockets of various sizes provide ample storage for all your mountain biking accessory needs. The addition of reflective accents will keep you seen out on the trails. Available in a variety of colors, these lightweight stretch woven shorts are the perfect short to head out on the trails in comfort and style.

BEST FOR: SUMMER ADVENTURES

Extremely lightweight and breathable, these shorts are perfect for warm summer days on the trails. The shorter leg length allows for unrestricted movement and an athletic aesthetic. An adjustable waistband paired with a padded chamois liner means that these shorts will feel comfortable all day long in the saddle. Mesh panels allow for airflow, while the light stretch fabric will move with you whether you are on tight tracks or nailing rocky descents.

BEST FOR: WILD ADVENTURERS

These longer style shorts will keep your legs covered and protected for those days spent weaving through super tight trails. The 4-way stretch, waterproof coating, and rip-stop fabric will ensure the shorts not only move with you but will stand up to the harshest conditions. The Pearl Izumi Elevate shorts do not include an inner liner. Instead, you can easily wear them over your favorite padded shorts for maximum comfort and protection.

BEST FOR: STAYING COOL AND COMFORTABLE

Lightweight and breathable, these shorts will keep you cool even when the temperatures start rising. The women’s specific design provides ultimate performance and the stretch fabric allows unrestricted movement. The Zoic Nevaeh shorts also have zippered pockets that are large enough to stow your mobile phone and other essentials.

BEST FOR: ALL DAY RIDING

Look good, ride hard, have fun! The Wild Rye shorts are not only stacked with technical features, such as abrasion resistance, water repellent materials, and a 4-way stretch fabric, they are also good for the planet. These shorts contain materials that meet the bluesign criteria so you can feel good knowing you’re helping the planet while you ride.

The Wild Rye Freel shorts are also incredibly high quality, from the durable fabric sewn into every inch right down to the detailed stitching. Did we mention they have llamas on them?

BEST FOR: LONG DAYS IN THE SADDLE

These all-in-one style shorts give the comfort of lycra around the waist and upper thigh with an inbuilt chamois, while providing a typical mountain bike style from the thigh to knee with a flared fit. The longer leg fit is perfect for the taller rider wanting good coverage to the knee. The inclusion of a zippered pocket on the lower right thigh gives a handy place to store any bike essentials.

BEST FOR: FAIR WEATHER RIDING

When the weather is warm and a light breeze is in the air, these shorts are your go-to for mountain biking. The stretch material will give unrestricted movement while the laser cut hems sit flush to avoid any chaffing.

These shorts will perfectly transition from riding trails to lunch with friends, no need for a wardrobe change. Made from ultra lightweight material, you would be hard-pressed to find a lighter mountain biking short.

BEST FOR: MULTI-SPORT PLAYER

If getting outdoors and adventuring is what you are about, then these shorts are made for you. Able to stand up to the tough conditions of mountain biking, yet stretchy enough to pull off your favorite yoga poses, these shorts are perfect for people on-the-go. Pair these shorts with your favorite padded chamois and knee pads and you’ll be ready to rip the trails in no time!

BEST FOR: HEAVY DUTY RIDING

Whether you’re shredding gnarly descents, tight tracks, or rocky terrain in rain, hail, or shine, the Cycorld women’s MTB shorts are up to the task. Constructed with heavy duty, water repellent material and a loose fitting design, you will have all day comfort and all day style with these unbeatable shorts.

These high quality shorts are fitted with secure fastening at the waist including micro adjustability. Additionally, the extra deep pockets have quality zips to keep your valuables safe. Check your sizing as these shorts run a little large.

BEST FOR: VERSATILITY

The Patagonia Dirt Craft Bike Shorts increased capability to cover a wide range of activities does reduce their mountain bike specific features, but they’re equipped with 2-way stretch fabric and medium durability, which makes them perfect for shredding trails on or off the bike.

The outer short is breathable and water repellent, while the detachable inner liner is constructed of stretch material and mesh panelling for enhanced breathability. If you’re looking for a pair of shorts that can handle all your weekend adventures from mountain biking, climbing to hiking, then look no further!

BEST FOR: DOWNHILL RIDING

Drawing its DNA from the Freerider mountain bike shoe, this completely updated model contains many of the features that Five Ten customers have come to expect. And so many more. Founded in 1985 as an approach shoe company, the proprietary Stealth Rubber has become synonymous with grip. Since those early beginnings, the brand was purchased by Adidas who has since utilized the rubber compound with other brands under the company’s umbrella. This is the only true flat shoe in this guide and thanks to the grippy rubber sole, you can be assured that your shoes will remain connected to the pedal regardless of the terrain.

TOP OVERALL CLIPLESS CHOICE

If you’re looking for a shoe designed to take you on adventures through rugged backcountry terrain, look no further.

Specialized is a popular name in the mountain biking world — and deservedly so. The nylon composite shank provides for a solid pedaling platform while the hydrophobic mesh upper keeps your feet dry in the event of a stream crossing or large puddle. The upper is designed for stability and breathability without interfering with pedal performance.

What I like most about these mountain bike shoes is the rugged Vibram sole.

BEST SHOE ON A BUDGET

When you’re searching for a performance biking shoe and you don’t have a lot to spend, the $70 flat pedal Livewires are a great investment.

This entry-level trail offering boasts a tough rubber outsole complimented by a stylish modern look. The midsole is thick enough that the shoe functions as well on trail days as it does doing laps in the park. While the brand’s proprietary rubber outsole isn’t as grippy as top-of-the-line alternatives, its durable budget alternative.

What I like most about the Livewire shoe is the impact protection at the heel and the ball of the foot.

BEST FOR CROSS COUNTRY RIDING

When you’re spending long days in the saddle, you need a shoe like the Empire VR90 — minimalist, comfortable, and high-performing.

These race-inspired clipless shoes are the stiffest in this line-up, thanks to the Easton EC90 carbon sole. This translates to the best power transfer of any shoe on our list, as well. Just a little bit of flex in the toe makes these off-the-bike walkable. There’s little padding in this shoe but a rubber rand and toe box reinforcement provides some protection from rocks and debris.

What I like most the VR90s is the customizable insoles that allow you to choose between three different sizes of arch support, providing for the capacity to really dial in the perfect fit.

BEST FOR: DOWNHILL AND ENDURO RIDERS

For top-of-the-line gravity performance, don’t settle for less than best — opt for the Chamber IIs.

Giro’s Chamber II features an even more enduro-specific race design than the original Giros. These shoes sport a seamless upper, a shank that balances rigidity and comfort, and an adjustable cleat position. What makes this shoe so unique is how deceiving its appearances are. It mean seem like a casual, flat pedal shoe and indeed, it has the cleat setback positioning of one — but it offers the power of a clipless connection.

What I like most about the Chamber II is that the cleat setback of 10 millimeters means your feet fatigue less quickly and you have better control on gnarly, more technical terrain.

BEST FOR: ALL-MOUNTAIN RIDING

Founded more than 30 years ago, Giro was started to meet the growing needs of cyclists. Over the last three decades, the name has become a world leader in creating products across an array of categories including helmets, apparel, goggles, and of course, shoes. And while many performance racing shoes feature the stiff pedaling platform, Giro took the design of the Terraduro Mid to the next level by adding grippy rubber outsoles for those hike-a-bike sections. A low profile buckle allows for fine tuning the fit while twin straps ensure a secure feel on the trail. The reinforced toe box will provide extra protection against trail obstacles.

BEST FOR: MOUNTAIN BIKING ON A BUDGET

Pearl Izumi has been a household name in the cycling realm for more than sixty years. This shoe was designed from the ground up. The lugged outsoles feature a grippy rubber that is comfortable and ideal for those hike-a-bike sections. The 3-layer seamless upper is designed to breathe well while providing all-day comfort. The buckle closure allows the tension to be cranked down to the desired fit while the dual Velcro straps allow for customizing fit across the top of the foot. Aside from the obvious features that are designed for cycling, this shoe could easily be mistaken for a hiking shoe at first glance (especially if you aren’t standing with or near a bike).

BEST FOR: TRAIL RIDING

Since 1985, Giro has been serving the cycling community by creating products that enhance the experience every time you saddle up. This entry level cycling shoe features the convenience of the BOA lacing system that allows the rider to find the perfect fit each time with a convenient dial. And with a quick pull of the dial, the tension is released and the shoe can easily be removed. The outsole is created using a combination of nylon and rubber to enhance traction when off the bike. Additionally, the outsole accommodates steel toe spikes for additional traction. Riding trails can often be rough on shoes and the Cylinder has a mid-foot scuff guard to increase durability and increase the lifespan of the shoes.

BEST FOR: MOUNTAIN BIKING

Founded almost a century ago, Shimano is a household name for almost anyone who’s ever ridden a bicycle. Let’s face it, sooner or later on most rides, we all end up walking the bike whether on a washed out section of trail or perhaps even through an area off-limits for riders. Shoes that excel at pulling double duty are a bonus. The SH-ME5 is just such a shoe. The shoes possess reinforced uppers that provide additional protection and durability while still remaining breathable for long hot rides. Utilizing a combination of the BOA dial lacing system and a Velcro strap, this low-profile shoe can be dialed in for a perfect fit every time you hit the trail.

BEST FOR: MOUNTAIN BIKE RACING

Specialized makes a wide range of footwear but this is the Cadillac of cycling shoes. The Specialized S-Works Recon checks all the boxes you would expect from a premium cycling shoe: excellent power transfer, lightweight construction, and extremely stylish design. A stiff carbon plate offers excellent power transfer while the dual, independent BOA dials create an excellent fit. The heel and toe tread feature a proprietary rubber that provides excellent traction when you’re off the bike as well as while you’re riding. And while you might naturally gravitate towards the black model, the white shoe is exceptionally stylish. Why blend in when you were born to stand out?

BEST FOR: LONG-DISTANCE RIDING

PROS: This jacket is body-mapped to keep you ventilated on the inside and protected from the weather outside, while the large pockets and reflective trim maximize both storage and visibility

CONS: Due to its impressive safety and performance features, this jacket is among the most expensive currently on the market

BEST FOR: EXTENDED SEASON RIDING

PROS: This jacket is excellent for year-round usage in a variety of altitudes and conditions due to its contoured and semi-form fitting ergonomics that create an elasticized, weather-tight seal

CONS: Because the structure of this jacket tends to feel snug on the body, those who want a breathable fit should consider sizing-up

BEST FOR: BACKCOUNTRY TRAIL RIDING

PROS: This jacket is both affordable and multi-functional, offering unrestricted movement, reducing moisture build-up, and compressing into its own pocket for convenient portability

CONS: The construction of this jacket is on the looser, baggier side which might not be ideal for bikers who prefer a more athletic fit

BEST FOR: SPEED RIDING

PROS: This jacket is engineered for the technical athlete who needs moderate protection in cool or damp environments without feeling weighed down, and its detachable zipper sleeves offer just that

CONS: Since its main purpose is to elevate performance and momentum, this jacket likely won’t sustain body heat over long periods of time

BEST FOR: BACKCOUNTRY TRAIL RIDING

PROS: This jacket is not only a proven line of defense against rain, it’s also among the most eco-conscious biking garments available, thanks to a process of turning plastic bottles into weather-tight fabric

CONS: Earth friendly gear doesn’t often come cheap due to labor intensive manufacturing, so this jacket might not work within your budget

BEST FOR: BACKCOUNTRY TRAIL RIDING

PROS: This jacket is made with innovative water repellent technology to ensure multi-layer protection and moisture permeability and breathable comfort, no matter the season or trail conditions

CONS: The cut of this jacket is more relaxed which could be a hindrance to cyclists who don’t like their outerwear to flap or billow on the descent

BEST FOR: SPEED RIDING

PROS: This jacket is an economical option for winter riding, as the windproof outer shell and fleece inside layer retain body heat, while the streamlined jersey fit optimizes your speed training

CONS: The materials are not waterproof, so this jacket won’t shield you from precipitation, making it more conducive to drier, low-humidity climates