For a year or two we’ve been spotting what look to be well-designed and well-made Haglöfs gear here and there- but it took ads for their monochrome Intense collection of riding and trail running gear for us to really set aside the time for a closer look. The Intense collection’s colors are designed to be mixed and matched- or coordinated for the ultimate in matchy-ness.

We’d love to hear from readers with first-hand experience, but the winner of the group–for those who live in wetter climates anyway–looks to be the softshell Ardent short.  It’s BlueSign certified, seems to be nicely cut, and comes in colors guaranteed to chase the gloom away.  We’re not aware of any US distribution, so until someone sees fit to bring the line Stateside, it’s an Internet-only proposition.  Hit the jump to see our picks!

SCRAMBLE JACKET Super Lightweight waterproof shell with outstanding breathability and packability. Details such as zippered waterproof rear pocket and dropped rear hem, makes it suitable for high pulse activities such as biking. Revolutionary Gore-Tex® Active Shell delivers new levels of breathable waterproof shell technology Innovative pattern construction DWR treated surface Laminated tricot chin guard and full length weather guard behind main zip Raise rear collar with elasticated shock cord adjustment for enhanced weather protection Laminated zippered chest pocket Zippered rear storage pocket with weatherproof over flap and magnetic closure Longer length, articulated sleeves with shaped elasticated cuffs Dropped rear hem with partial silicon grip on lower hem Elasticated side and rear hem adjustment with flat front facings for less bulk if cycling Reflective detailing front and rear Centre back length – 79cm men’s size L, and 71cm women’s, size M
ARDENT SHORTS The Ardent shorts are made of a hardwearing material with laminated Soft Shell rear panels for weather and mud protection and S – shaped construction for better articulation when biking. FlexAble™ fabric provides the optimum balance of wind and water resistance together with excellent breathability S- shaped leg construction for better articulation if cycling laminated Soft Shell rear panels for weather and mud protection DWR treated surfaces Gusseted crotch offset side and inner leg seams for a chafe-free comfortable fit Comfortable flat waist band with integrated Velcro waist adjustment Zippered fly with rear wind baffle and hook plus closure Raised rear elasticated waist panels for coverage if cycling 2 long length leg zips for ventilation 2 bellowed zippered thigh pockets Pre-bent knees with space for knee protection pads if needed 2 bellowed zippered thigh pockets Reflective detailing front and rear Inseam leg length – 44cm men’s size L, and 39cm women’s, size M
SCRAMBLE TEE The Scramble Tee is excellent for high pulse activities such as biking, with a longer body length and single rear pocket, made in a fabric with excellent vapour transportation. High wicking performance fabric with excellent vapour transportation Flat locked seams throughout plus offset shoulder and side seams for less chaffing Permanent odour control from Polygiene® Natural Silver Salt Technology Raised collar for sun protection Long body length, dropped rear hem Single rear pocket Reflective detailing front and rear UPF > 30+

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