Mountain bikes keep getting better and better every year, and the clothing does too. If you think about it, we demand a lot from the riding clothes we wear. It’s got to keep us warm on the descents, but not too hot on the climbs. It’s got to protect us in the event of a crash, but it needs to be comfortable too. Oh, and it has to look good, because when you look good, you ride good. It’s just science.
The Singletracks team has been reviewing MTB apparel for more than a decade, and this year we got an early start on testing cool weather mountain bike clothing for the fall and winter. These are our favorites (so far), and we’ll continue to update this article with the latest gear.
Items tested
Mountain bike jackets and vests
Having the right jacket can make all the difference between a good ride and a bad ride. Most “regular” jackets are just too hot once you get moving, and a good mountain bike jacket takes into account both warmth and ventilation.
Ketl Mountain Apparel BodBrella Rain Jacket
To prepare for the upcoming rainy season, Ketl created the BodBrella Rain jacket. Constructed of 100% lightweight breathable DWR 10k waterproof 2.5-layer stretchy nylon, this jacket will keep you dry inside and out during changing wet weather conditions. Weighing about 295g on my scale for a size large, its light weight and slight stretch caught my attention right out of the box.
I’ve owned cycling rain jackets before that felt like I was wearing a trash bag over my body, and anytime I lifted my arms, the jacket would lift straight up. This jacket has a straight, slightly fitted cut, tapered cuffs, and a short back tail. Waist and hood cinch cords can be pulled for a more snug fit. If you like a fitted look and feel, I would recommend wearing a good breathable thin top underneath this jacket. If you plan on wearing more layers underneath, try sizing up to give ample space.
There is extra ventilation coming through the axillary vents and the two mesh-lined, front-zippered pockets. One feature that is missing is a two-way zipper to quickly ventilate at a moment’s notice. The zippered chest pocket can be stuffed with snacks or can be used to stuff the jacket into itself. I am quite happy with this jacket for its clean-cut looks and performance-oriented features. This may be my first rain jacket that doesn’t feel like a trash bag! Available in black and blue (pictured), in sizes from small to XXXL.
- Price: :$151.95
- Buy from Ketl Mountain Apparel
Ornot Alpha Daily vest
Tester: Dan P. Height/weight: 5’7”/215lb Chest size: 42”
The Ornot Men’s Alpha Daily Vest is designed to be worn on and off the bike. Just in time for fall and winter riding, this casual fitting vest is designed to keep you cozy during changing weather conditions and unpredictable environments. The 150gsm Polartec Alpha Merino bi-component loft knit covers the chest, sides and neck and feels like a soft, warm blanket. The material offers the performance of synthetic fabric while retaining classic wool thermoregulation characteristics. In other words, it’s the best of both worlds. If things do get a little too warm inside the vest, Ornot lined the rear panel of the vest with Polartec Thermal Pro Hardface synthetic material to efficiently dry out sweat when putting the pedal to the metal.
Holding it all together is a breathable and recycled stretch-woven fabric with a single main two-way zipper that makes it easy to quickly dump out at a moment’s notice. Plus, there are two front zipper pockets along with a rear zipper pocket with ample room. I really like the sleek and relaxed cut this vest has while also concealing the high performance fabrics inside that keep the adventure going all day long. This vest is part of Ornot Special projects, making it unique and limited. Offered in black, stone blue, and slate gray in six limited sizes ranging from XS-XXL (XL tested).
- Price: $196
- Buy from: Ornot.com
Ornot Women’s Alpha Riding Vest
Tester: Jamieelee P. Height/weight: 5’7”/155lb
The Alpha Riding Vest brings together a balance of warmth and breathability, thanks in part to Polartec® Alpha® Direct insulation material, keeping you warm during cooler temperatures while also absorbing away sweat on the ride.
Made of a stretchy woven fabric, the front of the Alpha Riding Vest provides wind protection but is also porous enough to regulate body heat. The back features a soft material that not only provides warmth but is also ventilated for when riding gets a bit intense.
The Polartec material first came about because the US Special Operations Forces (SOF) needed a packable insulation material that was breathable, quick-drying, and durable enough to use in combat zones. The evolution into Polartec® Alpha® Direct further enhanced its properties and offered more lightweight options for activewear and cycling brands like Ornot. For this particular vest, the Polartec® Alpha® insulation is made from deadstock, which is good for the environment.
The Alpha Riding Vest is a fitted style with performance in mind. While it is very contoured to the body, I felt like it was stretchy and moved with my body. The back is slightly longer than the front, providing a bit of back coverage while in the saddle. Weighing only 105g, this vest is impressively lightweight for the warmth it offers. I layered it over a thin jersey during cooler 50 degree evenings, and the vest truly lived up to its claims, keeping me warm without feeling bulky. The vest can also be compactly folded up to be stashed away in a jersey pocket when it isn’t needed.
For those who prefer a more casual and relaxed fit, consider sizing up, or go for the Alpha Daily Vest which offers a more casual style option. The Alpha Riding Vest comes in two colors: Mars, and Slate (pictured above), and in sizes XS to XL. Whether you’re hitting the trails hard or cruising in cooler weather, this vest is a reliable companion.
A men’s option, shown above, is also available.
- Price: $134
- Buy from: Ornot.com
Mountain bike pants
For a lot of mountain bikers, one good pair of mountain bike pants is all you need to keep riding most of the year. In addition to the pants we’ve tested this year (below), be sure to check out this extensive list of mountain bike pants for any conditions.
Moxie G-Form trail pants
Tester: Jeff B. Height/weight: 6’3”/165lb
The Moxie brand is “a contemporary cycling apparel company focusing on female identifying individuals,” though they’ve also branched out into all-gender pieces like the G-Form trail pants I tested. The knicker-style pants feature pockets built into the knees for G-Form pads (the brand also has a long-sleeve jersey with pockets for elbow pads). I found they’re a big upgrade over pants or shorts plus knee pads since the pads don’t (can’t!) slide down during the ride.
The Moxie G-Form trail pants are generally loose fitting and use a drawstring waist. The stretchy material is well vented, especially around the back of the legs. It’s not the softest material against the skin, but it seems robust and fairly abrasion resistant. There are two zippered pockets, and while you can certainly wear these trail pants on their own, I’ve been wearing them underneath a pair of baggy shorts.
Three colors are available, and the Gray Fade version I tested has a variegated look that promises to hide dirt and stains, though it may not be for everyone. Black denim and blue fade colorways are also available in sizes small through 2XL.
- Price: $175
- Buy from Moxie Cycling Co.
Outdoor Research Men’s Freewheel MTB Pants
Tester: Travis R. Height/weight: 5’8”/200lb
Trusted adventure brand Outdoor Research (OR) appeared on the mountain bike scene this year by introducing their Freewheel Collection. This MTB-specific lineup features the Freewheel pants, a pair of nylon/spandex blended light- to mid-weight riding pants. The material moves well, is decently ventilated, and is DWR-treated for water resistance.
A 15-inch zipper extends from the ankle up to the knee on the side of each pants leg, making putting on and removing knee pads easy. The cuffs are also reinforced with DuraPrint technology on the inner ankle, adding abrasion resistance. Two zipper pockets — one vertical and one horizontal — are on each leg, and narrow webbing adjusts the waist. Waist sizes range from 28 to 42, all with a 32-inch inseam and an athletic fit.
The Freewheel MTB pants are currently my go-to pants on chilly morning rides. While they certainly aren’t the lightest-weight pants in my closet, they are by no means overly warm. The pants fit well — not too tight but not too loose — true to size, but with a little extra room for knee pads. The zippered lower legs were a welcome addition as I didn’t have to take the pants off to put my knee pads on or remove them. No more getting caught at the trailhead with my pants down!
- Men’s and women’s versions available
- Price $130
- Buy from Outdoor Research
Velocio Thermal Utility Bib Tight
Tester: Jeff B. Height/weight: 6’3”/165lb
It’s been too warm so far this season for me to properly test the Velocio Thermal Utility bib tights, but I’m already a fan. The size medium tights feel true-to-size, and stretch just enough to fit snugly without a lot of bunching or wrinkling. I find the shoulder straps are on the short side for me, though they don’t have me hunched over as much as others I’ve tested.
Soft, thermal fabric lines the front of the tights and also the waist, while the backs of the legs feature a lighter, more breathable material. Generous reflective panels around the ankles are a nice touch for visibility on early morning road rides. The chamois is on the thicker side for those who like a generous amount of padding and the two side pockets are sleek but deep enough that you can actually stash a bar or phone easily.
- Sizes XS – 4XL; men’s and women’s versions available
- Price: $279
- Buy from Velocio
Mountain bike gloves, socks, and headwear
Our hands and feet tend to get cold first when riding in the fall and winter, especially without the right gloves and socks. And even though we all wear a helmet for riding, significant heat loss can occur from the head, so consider adding a helmet-friendly hat to stay extra warm on the coldest days.
100% Brisker gloves
Tester: Jeff B. Height/weight: 6’3”/165lb
I’ve been waiting all year to finally put these to good use! Several mountain bike friends recommended the 100% Briskers for winter riding thanks to the thick neoprene top and grippy Clarion palm. The velcro closure ensures a wind-tight fit and the reflective logo is a good thing to have for night riding. Available in multiple colors and prints.
- Price: $34.50 (on sale for $15-25)
- Buy from Amazon
Hestra Ergo Grip gloves
Tester: Jeff B. Height/weight: 6’3”/165lb
Glove brand Hestra wasn’t on my radar before this fall, but they’ve been making gloves for skiing and other outdoor activities since 1936. I tested the Hestra Ergo Grip Race cut and Ergo Grip Long 5-Finger gloves, and both are expertly shaped and fitted for comfortable grip on the bike. For late fall and early winter riding the Ergo Grip Long 5-Finger gloves will be my go-to choice; the day-glo yellow material and reflective highlights are sure to brighten and warm any ride! In addition to being water reistant and windproof, they’re also padded in the palms for extra warmth.
Hestra gloves are pricey but they’re some of the highest quality I’ve tested
- Price: $70-85
- Buy from Hestra
Ketl Mountain Apparel Vent Touch gloves
The Ketl Vent Touch gloves are fairly lightweight so depending on where you live, they may be best suited to late summer / early fall riding. They’d probably make a good winter glove too, that is if you live in Florida. I like the comfortable fit and simple design. The gloves aren’t bulky, and the palm is grippy, which is basically everything I want from a lightweight full-finger glove. Clearly these are a popular choice, as Ketl is currently sold out of all but size XL in the blue color shown. There’s a black version too, with all sizes in stock except 2XL.
- Price: $34.95
- Buy from Ketl Mountain Apparel
Leatt MTB 2.0 Windblock Gloves
Tester: Travis R. Height/weight: 5’8”/200lb
Leatt has created the “Goldilocks” of gloves with their MTB 2.0 Windblock gloves — not too hot, not too cold, but just right. The gloves feature a double layer of wind-block material, making these the perfect choice for chilly fall rides. The wind and rain-resistant upper fabric is paired with a MicronGrip palm, which delivers ultimate grip regardless of the weather.
Formfit stitching and a pre-curved palm give the MTB 2.0 Windblock gloves a snug, natural fit. A microinjected 3D brush guard reinforces the knuckles and the pinky for the branches that want to reach out and grab you. The MTB 2.0 Windblock gloves come in three colorways and four sizes — S, M, L, and XL.
I discovered the Leatt MTB 2.0 Windblock gloves last all winter, and they quickly became the gloves I chose for all cold-weather riding. I’ve been comfortable in these gloves in temperatures ranging from 28° to 50°. They did well keeping my hands dry during one particularly rainy ride last winter but would eventually give way to the wet after an hour of consistent rain. That said, my hands stayed relatively warm despite being soaked on a 40° day.
- Price: $49.99
- Buy from Jenson USA
Ornot Decadent Winter Cap
With cooler temperatures upon us this fall and upcoming winter, the Ornot Decadent Winter Cap is a great addition to keep warm underneath the helmet. It is made of Polartec Power Wool which makes the cap feel super soft, warm, and lightweight.
I found that the hat fits comfortably snug and is thin enough to be almost undetectable under a helmet. During my testing, the hat stayed in place and did not slide or move under the helmet. The small brim is a nice addition that somewhat blocks unwanted sun, wind, or fog, and it can be flipped up and out of the way when not needed.
The hat’s temperature range is listed at thirty to fifty degrees Fahrenheit. During cold and windy descents, the ear flaps provided great coverage and kept my ears warm. While the cap fits snugly, I was pleased that it did not interfere with my glasses. The back of the cap angles downward, providing a bit of extra coverage on the neck for added warmth, but also means I need to wear my ponytail extra low for a proper fit.
The Decadent Winter Cap comes in three decadent colors: Obsidian (pictured here), Indigo, and Olive.
- Price: $54
- Buy from: Ornot.com
Pearl Izumi merino socks
I have way too many mountain bike socks. Honestly I’m grateful and it’s a good problem to have. I’ve got my favorites for sure, and the Pearl Izumi Merino Trail 7″ socks are right up there. The cuff has just the right amount of stretch to stay up without leaving a ring around my calf at the end of the day. Plus, the Merino wool blend is soft and keeps its warmth even in wet conditions. The medium-thin thickness is just right for most of my fall rides, though for winter I’ll be switching to something thicker. Available in three colors and four sizes.
- Price: $24
- Buy from Pearl Izumi
Mountain bike jerseys and shirts
When it comes to mountain bike jerseys for fall and winter riding, honestly just about anything goes. You could pair a thin long-sleeve jersey with a vest, or wear it as a layer underneath a jacket. Or wear a short-sleeve technical tee underneath that button-up flannel for easy ventilation when you heat up.
Outdoor Research Freewheel Long Sleeve MTB Jersey
Tester: Jeff B. Height/weight: 6’3”/165lb
At this point, I think we can stop saying that Outdoor Research is new to the MTB apparel market. They’ve been here a while now, and the brand has released a few collections that seem to be popular with riders. The Freewheel long-sleeve jersey is a basic, three-season polyester / spandex jersey that fits great and breathes well while offering SPF 30+ sun protection. I’m not a big fan of the two-tone look here — is it supposed to look like I’m wearing a neck tie? — so next time I’d choose the all-black version.
- Price: $70
- Buy from Outdoor Research
Rowdee Carbon Cowboy long sleeve button-up shirt
Tester: Dan P. Height/weight: 5’7”/215lb Size tested: XL
If you are looking for a long sleeve jersey to layer up in the upcoming cooler months, the Rowdee Carbon Cowboy button-up shirt is one to add to the wardrobe. It has a four-way stretch material throughout that allows for comfort when getting rowdy on the bike. It’s styled and tailored to look like a traditional button-up shirt, but it is crafted to perform like a cycling jersey. Made of 96% recycled polyester and 4% Lycra, it wicks sweat pretty well and the stretchy material stays wrinkle-free. I wear mine during summer nights and plan to layer it on top of a base layer on cooler nights.
Even on cool night rides, the long steep climbs tend to get me pretty hot. When that happens, I quickly unbutton the shirt to dump out the hot air. And if there is more climbing left on the route, I take the shirt off and pack it up. The really neat part of this shirt is that it is packable using the built-in zippered pocket.
The buttons snap into place securely but are easy to unbutton for quick removal. There is a left chest pocket and pen pocket, for when you need to write a big check for that new bike you plan on buying. The fit and performance make the shirt very versatile and works well as a top layer.
- Price $99.95
- Buy from Rowdee
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