Rapha MTB Trail Wear Reviewed: Not a Thread Out of Place

Rapha kicked off their first MTB apparel lineup this spring with some sharp-looking gear that’s cut and sewn to a high quality standard, and it feels really cozy on the bike. Unlike a lot of mountain bike apparel in this higher price range, there is not a loose thread or misaligned seam to be found on the Rapha mtb shorts and jersey, and the fabric feels tough enough to endure a few fun seasons.

Rapha MTB Trail Shorts

Functionally, the Rapha MTB Trail shorts hop ahead of some other leg coverings, with long, side-hip pockets that zipper shut to keep your phone and snacks securely chill and not rubbing on your thighs. My massive iPhone 11 is hardly noticeable inside, hammocked in the pocket lining.

There are dividers inside the hip pouches to separate your lift pass from your beer cash, and there’s also a set of good ol’ hand pockets to warm your fingers while you wait in line for that pilsner. The pocket zippers feel relatively sturdy, with proper placement to keep them from jamming with fabric when you need to zip and ride at the same time.

I originally tried my usual size small in these shorts, and found the fit a little too tight for my liking. With the adjustable waist belt engaged the medium fits my 31″ waist more comfortably, and there’s room to adjust it if I eat the whole pizza at lunch.

The 34cm-long legs (~13.5″) drop to the middle of my kneecap, covering more than the top chunk of any kneepads. I have a short 76.5cm (30″) inseam, and a lot of mountain bike shorts hang too low, but the Rapha MTB Trail shorts length falls just right. The overall fit is wide enough to allow for air flow up the legs, while somewhat constrained to keep the fabric from catching on things.

The shorts are made of 88% nylon and 12% elastane that’s shaped for a proper riding position, and it moves about well as you dance with the bike. The material is slightly thicker than some summer shorts, while not so ample that it’s hot. As ever, the stretchiness helps keep it from tearing when you hit the dirt, and Rapha will repair the shorts for free if you do manage to rip them open. There’s a repair kit included in case you want to fix rips yourself.

With gear stored on the sides where it shouldn’t annoy you, these shorts serve up a fantastic trail feel all around. Top it off with the clean look and minimal Rapha branding for some upper-leg coverage that will rival the best on the market.

• Price: $150
• Men’s and women’s Rapha MTB shorts available at REI

Check out our mountain bike shorts buyers guide and our picks for the best mountain bike shorts.

Rapha MTB Trail 3/4 Sleeve Jersey

I don’t really understand 3/4 shirts. I keep the sleeves on this Rapha MTB jersey rolled above the elbow any time I’m not taking photos of it. Fortunately, Rapha also has short and long sleeve options that skip this step.

This Rapha jersey is fairly straightforward, with no little pockets or lens wipes to speak of. The tail is dropped a touch, and the main fabric is stretchy to allow it to move with the rider’s body. The sleeves are made of sturdier fabric, and they have held up to the blackberry snags I manage to find on every local ride. The recycled main-body material is comfortably breathable, without being overly thin and clingy like some summer jerseys. The hems around the neck and sleeves are notably comfortable, with folded cuffs that are undoubtedly designed to be forgotten about on the trail.

I fit into my usual size small with a little room left for a back protector should I need one. Like the shorts above, the Rapha MTB jersey comes with a repair kit, and Rapha will repair the garment for you if it’s damaged. They also offer a 50% discount on a smaller size if you happen to lose weight after purchasing the jersey.

• Price $100
• Available at REI

Pros and the cons of the Rapha MTB Trail Shorts and 3/4 Sleeve Jersey

Pros

• Fantastic fit
• Free crash repairs
• Precise construction

Cons

• Expensive
• 3/4 sleeve doesn’t make sense for everyone
• No lift pass pocket or lens wipe on jersey

Bottom Line

Pandemic habits dictate that if I’m leaving my apartment it’s to ride or fetch vegetables, apart from the occasional rainy dig-day. These fewer social interactions have me stoked to throw on my Sunday’s best, which in the case of riding is this new Rapha mountain bike kit. If you’re in the market for trail apparel that looks as good as it feels, give Rapha clothing a go.