Specialized recently announced their Spring ’21 collection of technical and casual apparel for road cyclists and mountain bikers. Details on most of the collection is thin on the ground but we do have the low-down on the all-new MTB Pants! We got the Specialized Trail-Series Pant and Air Long Sleeve Jersey in for testing. Here’s how we got on.
Images credit: Finlay Anderson
Review: Specialized Trail-Series Pant
Specialized have added the Trail-Series Pant to their Spring ’21 collection of technical apparel. Though listed in the Specialized Catalog under the Men’s section, we can confirm their somewhat unisex fit. These are not high waisted, designed instead to be worn on the rider’s hips where they are comfortable and secure.
The main fabric of the Trail-Series Pants is composed of nylon (90%) and elastane (10%), with other areas containing a mix of nylon and spandex. The waist is not elasticated; fit is taken care of by a zip and a ratchet-style waist buckle. This is a durable choice of fastener, better than elastic that might lose its elasticity over time. It is also likely to weather the elements better than velcro, which tends to lose its grip in very wet, muddy conditions.
One of the most important features for any mountain bike pant is its ability to accommodate proper protective knee pads. A baggier area at the knees left plenty of room for our Bluegrass SOLID D30 knee pads. These pads are pretty well-endowed in their padding, with a big main pad made of D30 and additional padding at the outside and inside of the knee. The 4-way stretch fabric in this area permits ample freedom of movement for pedaling, even with the knee pads on.
While baggy at the knee area, the Trail-Series Pant tapers off down to the ankle area, where an elasticated cuff hugs the ankle firmly. This tapering should help prevent the leg material from getting caught on the chain or anything you may have strapped to your down tube such as pump, tube/tire levers, etc.
These MTB Pants aren’t waterproof, nor do they claim to be. They are however water repellent, and will keep your legs dry in very light drizzle or from the occasional splash through small puddles. The fabric is thicker than what we’ve seen on other mountain bike trousers, such as the Giro Havoc pants, and just feels to be of a higher quality. Laser cut holes on the inside leg add a little ventilation.
The Pants have three zippered pockets; two at the front and one down the side of the left leg. The former accommodate an iPhone 7 quite comfortably, while the one on the leg is much smaller. Put a lift pass or trail snack in there.
The 2021 Specialized Trail Series Pants are easily recommendable. They tick all the boxes for comfort, fit and durability, with well thought-through design features that should keep any mountain biker happy.
Review: Specialized Trail-Series Air LS Jersey WMN
We also tested the Specialized Trail-Series LS Jersey, new for this Spring ’21 season. This piece of technical apparel is composed of MiniR, a fabric made from an exclusive yarn technology that reflects the sun’s rays to keep the wearer cool. As the reflectivity is an inherent property of the fabric, it won’t wash out or wear out.
While branding on the Trail-Series Pants is almost non-existent, it is fairly loud and proud on the women’s long sleeve jersey. That said, I actually quite like it. I think it’s kinda classy but it certainly won’t be everyone’s cup of tea. Paired with the color-matched MTB Pants, the jersey does have something of a factory look about it.
The fit is close but not tight. There’s room enough in the arms for low profile elbow pads like those from G-Form but I did struggle to get the Bluegrass SOLID D30 elbow pads under there comfortably. The fabric is soft, thin and lightweight to the touch, and wicks sweat away nicely. This is an appropriate mid-layer for frosty morning rides in spring.
Pricing & Availability
The Specialized-Trail-Series Pants are a unisex fit, available in sizes 24-44. There is also a Youth version on the way in sizes S, M & L. It will get most of the features seen on the adult versions, but will only get one seam-sealed zippered leg pocket. Get them in Black or Cast Umber (shown here) for $135.
The Trail-Series Air long sleeve jersey is available in men’s and women’s cuts, in sizes XS-XXL. Get the women’s in Black or Cast Umber (women’s shown here) and the men’s in Black or Cast Battleship (navy) for $80.
