Club Ride has mountain bikers covered for fall riding. I recently checked out a flannel, vest, and pants from the brand, and here’s what I found.
Club Ride Shaka Flannel
Fall is flannel season, and Club Ride offers the Shaka Flannel in three stylish colors. Sure, you could grab that old flannel from your closet and hit the trail, but Club Ride did the hard work and created a bike-specific flannel with moisture-wicking poly spandex threads to keep you nice and warm on those icy cold rides. Here in California, temperatures are quickly dropping and some days require extra warmth. I have ridden in temperatures as low as 30 degrees during the winter months, and this flannel will be getting plenty of use this season.
As someone who does 20-mile night rides on a weekly basis, the mesh under arm vents will aid in dissipating unwanted heat. If more ventilation is needed, the seven metal snaps running down the flannel can be unsnapped for more airflow.
This flannel comes with two seamless zip pockets, one at the left chest and one down at the ride side. Both offer plenty of space for a phone, cash, ID, or snacks.
One thing that worries me, given my aggressive style of riding, is the shirt’s long tail. I tend to lean my body way back on steep descents so I’m a bit wary that rear hem could get caught in the rear wheel.
Overall the Shaka Flannel has a sport fit that works well with my upper build. Notable features such as reflective Club Ride logos and the hidden sunglass wipe make this $89.95 flannel the go-to for just about any cool weather adventure your heart desires. Add one to your wardrobe or start giving Santa some hints!
Available at Club Ride Apparel or REI | Compare Prices
Club Ride Blaze Vest
The Blaze is a packable lightweight vest with 80g insulation fabric running down the front that will keep you warm through the fall and winter season. It has a cycling-inspired design that looks so good you might wear it during holiday get-togethers.
If you’re like me and prefer to wear vests when riding instead of jackets, this will be your perfect companion. The 4-way stretch knit fabric at the back allows for great ventilation. This is crucial, as you want your front to be warmer when cold air hits your chest while your wind-blocked back stays cool and dry.
A full front zip allows for easy-on and easy-off. A secured zippered pocket inside the chest provides convenient storage. Two hand zip pockets offer additional storage if needed or help keep your hands warm. The elastic binding at the bottom opening and along the arm openings prevents cold air from entering the vest. A higher neckline also prevents cold air from hitting your neck. These detailed features make a huge difference out in the cold.
Overall the Blaze Vest has a sport fit which worked really well with my body type. A vest this lightweight with so many features begs to be worn day after day. With a water- and wind-resistant finish in conjunction with the reflective print at the shoulders, at $109.95, you’re getting a versatile piece of gear that can be worn anytime and anywhere. Cold days are among us, so don’t be left out in the cold.
Available at Club Ride Apparel or REI.
Club Ride Gold Rush Pant
The Gold Rush is a mid-weight pant designed for gravity riding and “everything after.” It uses rugged recycled polyester and spandex threads to allow for ease of movement while on the bike.
Many will appreciate the great range of motion and ample room that allows for knee pads, and double-paneled fabric at the knees will come in handy when things get rowdy.
The rugged water and wind-resistant finish will keep you warm and dry when smashing through puddles. To prevent airflow from coming in through the rear while hunched over, the “no crack back system” provides extra coverage at the rear waist.
A simple one button and zipper closure at the front keep the pants from falling off. Two forms of adjustability can be found, at the waist through the cam buckle system with four sizing loops and at the cuff with the snap system that allows you to securely roll up the pant leg. Without the cuff snap system, the 32” inseam would be too long for me as I am 5’8″ tall. It would be helpful if they offered inseam length sizing options in addition to waist measurements.
There are two pockets at the rear and two hand pockets at the front. A perfectly placed left zippered pocket running down the leg provides room for a phone and snacks. If you chose not to store anything in the left pocket, keeping it open can help ventilate the pant.
Overall the Gold Rush Pant has a comfortable fit with a relaxed hip and thigh area and a straight leg. The pants could just be worn all day long if need be. They are tough, comfortable, and weather-resistant, all for a really good price. It’s tough at times to find such features in a gravity-specific pant for $100. With a warranty that extends for the life of the product covering any defects in material and craftsmanship, the Club Ride Gold Rush pant is a must for this fall season.
Available at Club Ride Apparel or REI | Compare Prices
