Gear of the Year: Wear

Whether you’re ripping hot laps at the pump track or burning the dirt on your favorite enduro runs, Gore’s whisper-light ¾ Trail Jersey will keep you cool. The stretchy, quick-wicking fabric gently hugs your torso but is strong enough to protect you from backpack chafing and abrasions from trailside brambles and branches. The flattering fit won’t bunch up under a pack and still leaves plenty of room for body armor.

This midweight glove, with synthetic-leather panels on the palm and fingertips, is made for those who work on the trails they also ride on. The padding is durable enough to not tear when you heave deadfall off the trail, but also minimal enough to not feel bulky on the bar. Stretchy nylon mesh on the back of the glove keeps it flexible the way a riding glove should be. Wanna take a quick pic of your handiwork? The thumb and index fingers are touchscreen-compatible.

With breezy, lightweight mesh sleeves and side panels, this jersey is ideal for the hottest rides. A slightly heavier, but still airy, fabric across the chest and back preserves some modesty. The durable and fast-drying Pro Summer fits more snugly than a standard jersey but not as tightly as one with a race cut. And because Black Bibs believes everyone should enjoy the sport without financial barriers, this jersey is also one of the best values we’ve found.

Goodr became a cycling-eyewear disrupter by providing decent optics in a massive variety of styles and colors for $35 and under—a price that makes a lot of sense in a sport known for banging everything up. The new, $35 Mach G is a close-fitting aviator style with better airflow and less bounce than the brand’s oversize Super Fly, and more coverage than the OG and Circle G—almost as if designed specifically for cyclists.

The Alba 2 brings the performance Sidi is famous for at a value that’s uncharacteristic for the Italian brand. The Millennium 4 Carbon Composite sole is the one used on some of Sidi’s pricier models, and the upper is made from a synthetic material called Politex that gives the luster of leather with extra durability to resist scuffs and scratches. These shoes felt great from day one, with no prolonged break-in period required.

Weighing just 24 grams, the Fury has a wide field of vision and a crisp lens. It offers plenty of coverage and fights fogging well, and we experienced no eye-drying vortexes sneaking behind the lens. The suspended temples are very comfortable hours into a ride, and the glasses stay put even on the roughest gravel roads.

“Stuff that is really great doesn’t have to be expensive,” says Erik Saunders, the owner of Memory Pilot, a new California-based company that sells socks and mountain bike mudguards.

Saunders, a former track national champion, spent the past two decades working in sales, product development, and brand management for Time, VP Components, and other cycling outfits. With Memory Pilot, he aims to produce American-made components and sell soft goods, like socks, at a fair price. The company is one of few Black-owned cycling brands in the United States.

Memory Pilot’s Wattstyle socks are impressive by any measure. There’s a tight, durable weave over the toes and heel for reinforcement, and compression under the foot for arch support. They come in attractive designs that Memory Pilot will change every few months. And they sell for just $12, about half as much as most cycling socks.

As a kid growing up in Richmond, Virginia, Saunders faced bigotry, discrimination, and backlash from his own peers on his way to becoming a cyclist. Even riding his bike on country roads “where certain people are going to be actively hostile to your presence” was risky, he says.

Saunders is speaking more on issues of race lately, but he’s aware his small company can do only so much. Systemic racism is big and sprawling, he says, and he hasn’t seen much from the cycling industry that shows it’s ready to change. One thing he knows he can do: sell products at lower prices to make them accessible to more riders.

“I remember, as an up-and-coming rider wearing tube socks, discovering proper cycling socks for the first time,” he says. “I think about that, about who gets to be a part of the joy of wearing a great pair of socks.”

For him, even $12 for socks is too high. He’s using his experience developing low-cost cycling products to bring the price of his socks even lower. This fall, Memory Pilot will launch what Saunders calls the Standard line of socks that will have many of the same features as the Wattstyle but come in more basic colors. At an even lower price, they may truly meet his goal to offer a great product that more cyclists can afford.—Louis Mazzante

This full-mesh aero-style jersey is our favorite for hot, sticky, humid rides. It has integrated carbon particles that help regulate body temperature by pulling sweat away from your skin so it can evaporate. We were blown away by how well it wicks moisture—it stayed perfectly dry all day. The low-profile collar is comfortable and unobtrusive.

Anyone who rides in any kind of severe weather knows that layering is the key to comfort. The Ultimate Glove Pack includes a sweat-wicking base layer, a thermal knit mid-layer, a windproof outer layer, and a waterproof shell with a breathable membrane, so you can mix and match, and add and remove, according to the temperature and what’s falling from the sky. It’s one system that works for every ride.

Lazer’s AutoFit technology is fantastic. Parents will appreciate that the self-adjusting fit system snugs a child’s head securely and comfortably, meaning the helmet is easy to put on, stays put in a crash, and is less likely to be tossed aside midride by an irritable kid. It also expands as your child grows: One of our test editor’s boys wore a similar version of this helmet, which was also equipped with AutoFit, from the time he was 18 months old until he was five. The MIPS system in this version helps reduce the forces that can cause brain injury in a crash, providing another layer of safety.

The Aspire’s oversize lens filters specific points on the color spectrum, which intensifies the contrast to help you see more clearly. Each frame-color option is paired with the lens that best works with your riding environment: road, mountain, and urban. If you prefer a road-tuned frame but an urban lens color, no worries: POC sells spare lenses for $80 that are easy to swap in. The flexy frames are lightweight and grippy and fit nicely with POC helmets (though we found they work with just about every other lid we tried them with). They’re straight-up bossy, even off the bike.

The best commuter helmet we’ve tested is this vintage-moto-inspired, comfortable option from Thousand. Vegan-leather straps connect with a magnetic buckle, which is a breeze to operate one-handed. An adjustable dial lets you tweak fit, and the “thsd” logo on the back pops off so you can run a lock through the helmet. With 16 colors and patterns available, you might have a hard time choosing just one.

This is Rapha’s best road jersey, and its second-cheapest, too. The body-hugging fit is tight, but not pro-race constricting, partially due to the lovely fabric. It’s soft, supple, stretchy, breathes well, and dries quickly. Euro-length sleeves provide a modern look and extra sun protection, and the pockets are decently sized and adequately supported so you can load them up for long rides.

Bontrager’s WaveCel helmet, with its collapsible cellular structure, drew attention when the company claimed a rider wearing one was “48x less likely to get a concussion compared to a standard foam helmet.” But the lowest-priced WaveCel helmet at the time cost $150, excluding many budget-minded riders from the technology. The new $100 Starvos brings WaveCel protection to a new audience. Even better, it’s the most comfortable WaveCel helmet yet: We actually prefer it to the $300 XXX WaveCel.

When we tested seven of the best trail shorts last year, none topped Bontrager’s Rhythm. At 198 grams, it was the lightest and most comfortable of the group. A DWR treatment keeps rain and sweat drips from soaking the fabric, and the shorts fit comfortably—slim enough that they won’t snag on a saddle or rub against your knees, but not so tight that they restrict movement. There’s a side pocket for a phone, micro perforations for venting, and a fantastic waist closure that combines a thin metal buckle and stretchy belt for a secure fit before and after your postride burrito bomb.

This workhorse mountain bike shoe is durable, with a well-lugged rubber sole that offers good traction on rocks and dirt, and enough stiffness to provide the sensation of efficient pedaling without wasted energy. The ratcheting mechanical closure offers a snug fit and is low-profile, preventing damage or unwanted release when brushing by rocks and logs. Factor in the value, and it’s hard to find a shoe that offers more for less.

It’s no secret that cycling has an inclusivity problem when it comes to apparel sizing—it can be difficult to find anything bigger than a size large. Which is why it’s exciting to see more companies, like Velocio and Machines For Freedom, making quality gear in extended sizes.

Gear that actually fits means the difference between a carefree ride that can go for hours and one you’re forced to cut short because of discomfort. Size inclusivity also says a lot about a company: When a brand offers extended sizing, it’s saying, We see you. You belong here. We made this for you. That matters.

Velocio’s LUXE Bib Short (available in eight sizes, XXS through 3XL) makes all my rides last longer, thanks to a chamois designed for maximum comfort, support, and breathability. The bibs themselves are made from a buttery soft polyamide/elastane fabric that fits like a second skin while offering excellent compressive support. A seamless design means I’m not fighting against chafing straps and rough stitching, and wide microfiber leg bands stay put with each pedal stroke.

These qualities earn the LUXE bibs the highest marks. But that’s not what I love most. What I appreciate more than anything is that they were made for me—for my body type and for my shape. That matters.—Daisy Hernandez

These shoes are light. At 476 grams a pair (size 41, on our scale), the $120 RC3 is 13 grams lighter than Shimano’s $425 RC9. They’re not as stiff as the RC9, but they’re solid enough to prevent soreness on long rides, and the adjustable cleat-mounting slots—an uncommon touch at this price—let you dial in your perfect position. The overlapping closure with Boa dial secures your foot and distributes pressure well.

A $400 high-performance road shoe should feel top-notch right out of the box: no hot spots, no overheating, extremely lightweight, excellent power transfer, and super stiff without being uncomfortable. With a foot-hugging breathable knit upper, dual Boa dials to fine-tune fit, and a redesigned carbon sole two years in the making, the 230g (size 43) PRO Road V5 is one such shoe. You might want to size up: Our 42 tester needed a 43.

The Specialized ANGi crash sensor can, when in cellular range and paired with the free Specialized Ride app, automatically text preset contacts for assistance if it senses a large impact. It comes on many Specialized helmets. But the best option for most road riders is the light, well-ventilated, and sharp-looking Propero III, which features a MIPS liner and an adjustable fit system.

Rapha has always positioned itself as a brand for hardcore dudes who ride in shitty conditions, which did the opposite of inspiring me to ride. But the company’s recent collaboration with activewear brand Outdoor Voices (OV) resonates with women who want approachable, comfortable, versatile cycling fashion. The stretchy, snug fit of the Rapha + OV sports bra—which is, essentially, a rebranded version of OV’s Apex model in new Rapha-inspired colors—makes it a staff favorite.

Like most women I know, I’ve always assumed any ol’ sports bra would do for riding, because it’s a low-impact activity. But the Rapha + OV has me re-evaluating my thinking. Its higher-cut neckline lets me unzip my jersey and bend over the bar without feeling like I’m going to spill out or show more cleavage than I care to. Plus, the bottom extends low on my ribcage for a fit that’s comfortable with enough coverage that I can wear the bra on its own, crop-top style for hikes, or just lounging. And it’s easy to take off post-ride. I can’t tell you how many bras I’ve embarrassingly been stuck in—once they’re sopping with sweat, they’re almost impossible to wrestle over my head. The lack of fasteners means there’s nothing sharp to dig into my skin, and a cutout in the back works like a handle to help pull the bra off. Wearing this flattering sports bra makes me feel happy and confident—turns out, Rapha gets what inspires me to ride after all.—Riley Missel

A large wraparound lens with very good optics provides great protection and a huge, unobstructed view. The Sledge is relatively light for having such a large lens, and it fits great, with sticky nose and temple pads to keep these shades in place in all conditions. The temples are adjustable for a near-custom fit and thin enough to easily stash in many helmet vents. For all this performance, the value is off the charts, especially when you consider the Sledge comes with three lenses.

We appreciate the enhanced impact protection that Giro claims its Spherical helmet design provides by adding a low-friction layer between two layers of EPS foam. But the reason we turn to this helmet ride after ride is that it is the most comfortable road helmet we’ve tested. It’s light, with a soft touch on the head, and ventilates extraordinarily well.

The photochromic lens on these shades quickly transitions between light and dark, which makes them ideal for trail rides. We could dodge in and out of tree cover without being momentarily blinded by the changing light. At 24 grams, they’re crazy light, and the thin, low-profile arms fit nicely under most helmets. They’re also great for fall and winter evening commutes; the open frame offers an unobstructed view.

With four-way stretch mesh that breathes and dries like the best technical tops, this casual shirt feels like a loose summer-weight jersey. Underarm gussets let you stretch out over your bike without the shirt bunching around the shoulders or riding up in back. For cooler days, consider the $108 long-sleeve version.

This light and comfortable sock dispels the idea that wool should be worn only in cool temps. Its thin but supportive merino weave (blended with nylon, spandex, and olafin) offers the benefits of soft, breathable wool without the feeling that your toes are in a furnace. One test editor wore them on a 100-degree ride through a passing thunderstorm, and his feet stayed comfortable the whole time and dried quickly afterward.

The Alba 2 brings the performance Sidi is famous for at a value that’s uncharacteristic for the Italian brand. The Millennium 4 Carbon Composite sole is the one used on some of Sidi’s pricier models, and the upper is made from a synthetic material called Politex that gives the luster of leather with extra durability to resist scuffs and scratches. These shoes felt great from day one, with no prolonged break-in period required.

This stretchy, slim-fitting jacket has become an essential piece of spring and fall riding gear for several test editors. Pearl’s PI Dry treatment makes the polyester fabric water-resistant without sacrificing breathability. Wear it on chilly, dry days as a windbreaker, or carry it with you if the forecast threatens rain—it will keep you dry in all but the heaviest downpours. And it folds up small enough to fit into all but the tightest jersey pockets.

Pedal Mafia’s more basic jersey designs have a simple, monochromatic aesthetic not so different from some popular Rapha options. But this playful, limited-edition Unicorn Artist jersey really stands out—it’s made with compressive fabrics and has a streamlined aero cut. The Tech Bib uses the company’s high-density foam chamois, which is century-​ready with a perforated poly-blend fabric that borders on magic. Wearing the jersey and bib, I didn’t melt when training in 90-degree weather with 75 percent humidity or feel too chilled while climbing mountains in October.—Aliya Barnwell, cycling coach and founder of a cycling nonprofit for youths.

Buy Tech Bibs

At the core of any great kit is a great chamois, and Verge delivers with its Strike speedsuit. The brand’s Apex chamois has comfortable multi­density foam and dries fast, making it a nice option for all-day rides and long races. A full-length front zip makes bathroom breaks a breeze, and two rear pockets give you a convenient place to store ride essentials.—A.B.

The hand-designed kits by artist Alex Ostroy, like this QOM beauty, are a staple of the independent racing scene because they are bold and daring. The company’s bib straps feature a print that matches the accompanying jersey, and the high waist prevents the dreaded belly gap. This kit is meaningful to me. It features the names of high-profile female cyclists, and proceeds go to a nonprofit for youth in NYC where I coach.—A.B.

Buy Bib Shorts

When the CDC informed us that face coverings can reduce the spread of COVID-19, orders of Buff’s gaiter-style coverings soared. But for many, the new Filter Mask is a superior option. Its stretchy material and adjustable straps ensure a comfortable, tight fit. It’s quick-drying, with UPF 50+ sun protection, is easier to breathe through than the original, and the replaceable filter blocks 98 percent of airborne particles.

Giordana’s mask is cut from one piece of light and stretchy material with a bit of contour stitching at the nose and chin to help keep it in place. A moldable metal plate at the nose lets you customize fit. It’s not filter-compatible, but Giordana claims the material is treated to help ward off bacteria and viruses.

This double-layer mask is built from a woven-nylon, four-way stretch fabric, with a polyester lining. Small elastic cords make comfortable ear loops, and a bendable nose wire provides a customized fit. Without a filter, the mask breathes well, so it’s pleasant to wear when exercising. For more protection, add Champion System’s five-layer PM2.5 Filter ($13 for 10).