While no one will argue that the technical aspects of cycling clothing are wonderful, some riders like it when their clothing’s appearance remains subtle and understated. If you prefer wearing MTB clothing that won’t induce seizures with wild patterns, Chromag and Kitsbow have some new duds for you.
Bikerumor checked in with Chromag when they first released their Technical Line last summer, but they’ve added a new jacket, shorts and jerseys to that collection since. Kitsbow has also just announced a few new items, which all bear simple, understated looks paired with technical construction for on-bike performance.
Chromag:
From rainy days on the trails to muddy bike park laps, the Tachyon was designed as an all-purpose riding jacket that’ll keep you dry and comfortable when the weather has other plans. I don’t get excited about styles often, but I find this jacket’s subtle palette combined with some bold logo placement makes for one sharp looking shell.
The Tachyon boasts 10,000mm waterproofing and breathability ratings, and is made of a durable material that provides 4-way stretch. The elbows are articulated for free movement, and the hood can be stashed away when not needed. Other nice touches include two side pockets, pit zips, laser-cut vents, Velcro cuff closures, and a soft cover for the main zipper at the collar. The tachyon jacket comes in one colorway only. It is available in sizes XS-XL, and sells for $197 USD.
The Feint short is aimed at riders who want a durable, do-it-all short, but aren’t into the flashy full-factory look. While the ratcheted waistband is a hallmark of downhill gear, Chromag says these are a versatile short designed with trail riding in mind as well.
The Feints are constructed from 4-way stretch fabric, with laser-cut vent holes on the inside thighs and rear waistband. The rear end is kept simple and seamless, but there are two front pockets and a hidden pass pocket for bike park days. The Feint shorts come in men’s sizes 28-38, in grey only. Their retail price is $129.
A few new jerseys have also been added to Chromag’s technical line, including the Rove Short Sleeve Pocket Jersey and the Roam Wool Tee Jersey. The Rove (left) is a relaxed fit, Tee-style jersey that features a zippered chest pocket for cash, credit cards or other small stuff. This jersey’s moisture-wicking antibacterial fabric uses an environmentally friendly treatment process. The Rove comes in sizes XS-XL, in either blue/grey or grey/red colors. MSRP is $67.
The Roam Wool Tee jersey (right) is a simplistic piece made from a Merino blend fabric. Aside from the embroidered chest and rear hem logos there’s little in terms of features here, just the goodness of Merino and a very subtle, versatile aesthetic. The Roam comes in blue or black, in sizes XS-XL. The price is $83.
When the temperatures drop, Chromag’s Recluse Wool Long Sleeve Zip Jersey offers full coverage from a Merino blend fabric to keep you warm. The Recluse features a full front zipper (with a fabric cover at the collar) and zippered rear pockets. For a little touch of quality, the logos are embroidered. The Recluse comes in XS-XL sizes, in grey/black only. It sells for $147.
The Further Tech Shirt looks like a casual garment, but it is fully intended for riding. This snap-button shirt is ideal as a warm-up layer but its style makes it a great post-ride jacket too. It’s 4-way stretch fabric and laser-cut vents provide the technical elements to make this a rideable piece. Sizing ranges from XS-XL, and the price is $105. The shirt is sold in Charcoal Heather only.
Kitsbow:
Kitsbow says their flagship Adjustable Short V4 was updated to be ‘one short to rule them all’. The shorts feature the same performance cut and durable-yet-soft fabric as before, but they’ve lost their waist button in favor of an auto-locking zipper and Fidlock magnetic waist strap. This system offers a slim buckle that won’t dig into your belly, and prevents any waistline gaps at the rear.
The shorts feature Schoeller’s water-resistant 3XDRY treatment, and the leg hems are cut higher in the rear for comfortable pedalling. For storage there are two front pockets and two rears, which were obviously positioned to not interfere with saddles. All have updated security zippers and are made of mesh for optimal ventilation. The Adjustable Short V4 comes in Gunmetal Grey, Ultra navy and Black Olive colors. Sizes XS-XXL are available, and the retail price is $265 USD.
The Delta Tee V2’s body is made from PolarTec’s Delta fabric, which relies on high-tech knit structures that include both hydrophilic and hydrophobic yarns to keep your body cool (without using chemical treatments). Ideal for hotter rides, this jersey offers the coolness and dryness of polyester with the soft feel of cotton.
The jersey uses Polartec’s Power Dry fabric on the sleeves, with a small logo on the arm subtly interrupting its otherwise stately look. The Delta Tee V2 comes in a grey body with Mineral Blue, Flash Yellow or Dry Grey sleeves. Sizes range from XS-XXL, and it sells for $69.
Constructed from two new denim fabrics, Kitsbow’s Drifter Jeans are a midweight pant designed for free motion, on or off the bike. Following the classic 5-pocket pattern, the Drifters offer casual style yet their directional yoke, directional stretch denim fibers and curved knees provide riding comfort and performance.
Between the fabric itself, the blackened hardware and leather waist label, these pants are designed to age gracefully and show off their eventual wear and tear. The Drifter jeans are available in Black Denim or Dark Indigo, and come in waist sizes from 28-38. MSRP is $185.
