All Arround MTB

The ‘tennis heart-throb circa 1970’ vibe of this jacket has a certain appeal, but it delivers more than just style. Essentially a fleece with strategically-placed windproof panels, it’s an amped-up jersey, and one that works well.We didn’t overheat, even when riding hard, and the protective front keeps the cold off on long descents. The cut is relaxed, and silicone gripper keeps the long back hem firmly in place. It fits well on the bike and looks good off it too, making it a versatile item.We liked the Alpinestars jacket much more than we thought we would – it’s much warmer than we anticipated and, although we’d layer a waterproof over the top on days that are both cold and wet, on dry rides it works just fine on its own. It also has a useful zipped side pocket for essentials. Weight 365g Price $165

If you’re looking for a substantial waterproof that can take a lot of punishment, then look no further. The All Mountain 2 draws on Alpinestars’ moto heritage and, out of the box, can almost stand up by itself. Once on the bike, though, it’s very wearable, with room in the shoulders for both movement and winter layers. The hood fits easily over a helmet and, along with the high-fastening neck, means that even in heavy rain you feel protected. Quality construction and design details add to the solid feel, including an easy-to-use drawcord, long zip pulls and a good drop at the back hem, which, once cinched, keeps the damp and dirt out. It’s a warm jacket but the diagonal vents are effective at creating airflow and the mesh on the front collar helps when zipped right up. The price is quite high though. Weight 572g Price $345

Alpinestars’ Pathfinder Base shorts are relatively lightweight trail offerings, which don’t come with a padded liner. The fabric has enough stretch to ensure that movement remains unrestricted and your bum crack is kept covered when you’re sat down climbing. There’s also enough weight to the material that the shorts hang as they should and don’t ride up over your knee pads when pedalling. The two hip pockets are handy for stashing things in when off the bike but, with no zips, are more or less redundant when you’re in the saddle. This is irritating (though obviously less of an issue for those carrying packs), particularly as the only zipped pocket sits halfway down the thigh, which means the contents flap around as you turn the cranks or move around the bike. Waist adjustment comes courtesy of two Velcro tabs, which make it easy to get the fit right. We like the really soft fabric that lines the inside of the waistband for maximum comfort. Price $105

The Mesa jersey has a single rear pocket, which is handy for stashing a car key or cash in, along with a discreet glasses wipe just above the inside of the hem. There’s enough length in the arms and at the rear to ensure a decent fit is maintained when riding, while stretchy mesh panels help to keep movement free and easy, and prevent things getting too stuffy. The shiny fabric deals with sweat well enough but close encounters with brambles can leave the odd thread poking out here and there. It’s a really comfy jersey, which counts for a lot. But not everyone will be into the branding emblazoned across the chest. Price $67

Underarm cutaways and extensive mesh sections make this the coolest armour on test. The chest protection is nicely contoured to protect the ribs.The backplate is removable and has routing for a hydration bladder (you can run both if you want). Detach some of the padding and stuff some spares in the two rear pockets and you're ready for a pack-free enduro or big ride, so it's effectively two garments in one. There's no long-sleeve version, but you can always add a set of elbow pads for extra protection. Price 195$

The first thing we noticed about the Alpinestars shorts was the fit – it’s incredibly good. Move your legs and the body doesn’t shift at all. This is down to the stretch Y insert and back yoke, which allow the legs to move independently without pulling at the waist.

THE STYLING OF the Milestone reminds us of a favourite hoody and that’s what it is really, albeit a technical one. The substantial softshell fabric is warm to wear and kept us dry, but you do need the pit zips once the temperature rises or you start to work hard.

THE DESCENDER WP isn’t cheap for a water-resistant rather than waterproof jacket, but the 2.5-layer rip-stop material it’s made from is windproof and offers a decent amount of breathability.

AT JUST UNDER 165$ these water-resistant shorts aren’t cheap, but they deal with damp British conditions well and come with a padded liner.

I’m usually not a big fan of protection on the outer part of my gloves because it tends to be hot and restrict movement. But you know what restricts movement even more? A broken hand. I learned this the hard way last summer, when a low-speed crash left me with a boxer’s fracture.

The Stratus gloves from Alpinestars offer a decent amount of protection from the cold and wet without compromising control at the bars.

WE LIKE the Moabs' thin palm, which has been reinforced strategically to improve durability. Alpinestars have done a good job with the shaping and fit too, creating a glove that feels comfortable and doesn't bunch when you're gripping the bar.

LONG-SLEEVE MOUNTAIN bike jerseys do appear to be harder to get right in terms of fit than their short-sleeve equivalent. Despite the Drop being the best long-sleeve top on test, it would still benefit from longer sleeves – on taller riders, the cuffs sit part way up the forearm and feel too snug.