There’s nothing quite like slipping into a cycling kit that just fits perfectly. Aside from looking amazing, a combo of a properly fitting bib, jersey, and weather-specific accouterments bring an added boost of confidence and comfort that will help riders perform at their peak.
But in the mountain bike world, women’s apparel has tended to lag behind men’s offerings, whether in form, function, or style.
Machines for Freedom launched five years ago with the goal of addressing that exact issue by making cycling apparel for women that really works.
They offer dozens of items in unique styles and colors including bibs, pants, liners, jerseys and bras made specifically for women on two wheels.
This year, Machines has taken their mission into the mountain bike world with the brand-new Versatile Off Road Collection, a robust lineup of trail-ready clothing that’s ready to shred, from base garments to outerwear.
Versatile Off Road Collection
The Versatile Off Road Collection brings a casual feel to biking apparel synonymous with off-road riding. Unlike skin-tight lycra bibs, speed suits, and jerseys, the Versatile Collection features loose-fitting outwear designed to feel great on or off the bike.
The lineup includes the headlining Key Trail Short, which comes in 5.5 or 11-inch inseam options, along with a high-rise design and stretchy fabric that is perfectly suited for carving up gravel, single track, or your daily commute.
The collection also includes short and long sleeve technical and crew tees, and the Foundations Sports Bra and Liner Short.
The Liner Short is particularly appealing for riding that doesn’t really require the comprehensive padding a full bib would offer. Instead, the liner is a less-bulky alternative to a traditional chamois that still carries enough padding for a comfortable ride, along with a breathable mesh detailing on the legs and back for ventilation.
The bra brings all the ventilation and moisture-wicking performance you’d expect in cycling apparel in a comfortable package that is just as practical for use off the bike.
The Mission
Jennifer Kriske started Machines for Freedom in Malibu in 2014 after struggling with uncomfortable apparel and lack-luster offerings, even from big-name cycling apparel companies.
“I honestly think that for a long time, clothing was an obstacle to women getting on a bike,” Kriske said. “Like, to feel self-conscious like that, that’s a powerful thing, and that’s a powerful demotivator for people.”
With the line of clothing Machines for Freedom has created, she said she hopes to make women feel better, and perform better, every time they get on a bike.
“I think at our core, our product ethos is to help women feel amazing when they step out the door in a cycling kit,” she said. “We want to inspire confidence.”
