9.3.2024
What to Wear For Gravel Biking
It's essential to have the right clothing and equipment for the right sport, which is why gravel biking gear is just as important as road cycling gear. Whether it's shorts or pants, tops or accessories, knowing the differences and choosing the proper clothing for the sports you love will help you reach your goals.
Different Riding Clothing: Road, MTB, Gravel
If you're an avid cyclist, you'll know there's a difference between the types of clothing needed for each biking style. However, if you're venturing into new territory on two wheels, knowing which cycling gear is transferable and when to invest in slightly different clothing for the riding style is essential.
Road
Road biking requires a streamlined, snug fit that allows complete freedom of movement. To become fully aerodynamic and reach the speeds desired, specific items are made for this particular riding style. Cycling jerseys and bib shorts are the classic choice for road cycling because they feel like second skin and offer the protection and performance needed from any cycling gear.
MTB
MTB clothing focuses on durability for hitting the trails and battling the elements. Designed to be looser fitting, it allows pads and protective gear to be worn underneath. Made with materials designed to be tear-resistant, water-resistant, and reinforced to withstand tough rides, MTB clothing boasts breathability, durability, and style.
Gravel
Gravel clothing is a hybrid of road and trail cycling. Due to the difference in terrain between roads and trails, streamlined clothing that is entirely durable and has additional functionality, such as pockets, is needed.
So, what are the essentials when it comes to gravel biking?
Must-Have Gravel Biking Clothing
Essential gravel bike clothing combines practicality for long-distance comfort with style and durability. It is available in many different styles, colours, and designs that will meet your needs and riding style.
Bib Shorts
Bib shorts are a cyclist's must-have, but which designs are the perfect solution for gravel riding? Here are our recommendations:
The Spinshift cargo bib shorts are perfect for gravel riders. They boast features that make mid-distance riding a dream. With pockets on each leg, there is no need to take a backpack on your rides. The women's version also has a bio-break solution: detachable straps that easily remove from the shorts when nature calls.
An upgrade from their previous design, the Distance 2.0 bibs have an incredible fit. 50% less seems to prevent chafing, and the improved material fits like a second skin.
These award-winning bib shorts have the best seat pad option if you're looking for maximum comfort. The multi-layered 3D-printed seat pad offers comfort and support, even on rugged terrain.
Tops
Finding the right jackets and jerseys for gravel biking is easy when you know what to look for. Knowing what features are appropriate for this style of biking is half the battle, but fortunately, we've got the top picks that will meet all of your gravel riding needs.
These are the perfect jerseys to wear with the Distance bib shorts. With so many different types, these jerseys are the perfect choice for those who need space for belongings and features such as raw-cut hems, spacious back pockets, and an ergonomically shaped neckline.
Perfect for warmer climates and summer riding, the Spinshift breathe jersey is any gravel rider's number one choice. Super lightweight, with two different open mesh materials, it wicks away sweat and provides breathability, even on the hottest of days.
For winter riding, the long-sleeved version of the Spinshift protects against cold winds and low temperatures while still providing breathability and freedom of movement. This style can be worn over base layers without creating bulk or restricting movement, negating the need for a jacket on those dry but cold ride-outs.
Our award-winning jacket is a wardrobe essential for gravel riders. Thinner, lighter, and as waterproof as ever, it can be layered on top of jerseys and base layers for winter rides or as a packable carry-on for those rides when the weather looks unpredictable.
How To Style Your Outfits For Your Next Gravel Ride
Styling your outfit for gravel riding embraces the practicality of road cycling with the functionality of MTB. Streamlined jerseys and bib shorts help you achieve maximum speed on the roads, but you should also boast comfortable seat pads, jackets, and headwear when the terrain gets a little rough.