All Arround MTB

The Phantom feels like a cross between a casual baselayer (we actually ended up using it as one this spring) and a slim-fitting jersey. It’s made from a lightweight fabric with a smooth, silk-like feel. This wicks well, and the back panel has a more open knit for increased breathability. As a result, it stays comfortable when things start to get warm. The arms are plenty long enough. While another couple of inches on the back hem wouldn’t hurt, especially for taller riders, it’s not a deal breaker. This is a good, well-priced basic bike top with the twist of a nice extra functional detail, in the form of a sewn-in lens wipe.We like the styling, too – it’s stealthy enough for ninja riders but with a bit of interest on the sleeves for those who don’t love neon but don’t want to be dull. Price $60

It’s neither the lightest nor the most breathable mountain bike jacket, but in terms of balance of features and protection for the money, the Mayhem 2 delivers excellent value. There’s no compromise on fit – it’s slim through the body but with enough room in the shoulders for freedom of movement on the bike, plus it comfortably accommodates extra layers. A chest pocket takes a phone or keys, and we like the practicality of the contrast black lower back and sleeves, which don’t show the trail muck quite as much. The hood goes over a helmet (if you’re very tall, you may find it snug when fully zipped up, but it still works well) and there are vents under the arms. Our only quibble is that we’d prefer them to be longer, to increase airflow and help with the Altura jacket’s limited breathability. Weight 369g Price $180

These mid-weight trail gloves can be worn throughout most of the year. The single-piece palm is pre-shaped rather than totally flat, so on the bar there’s little to no bunching of material. There are perforations on the fingers to aid breathability but none on the palm, so in the hottest weather the G2s can get a touch warm. Loads of silicone gripper on the palm and fingers means great traction on all but the grippiest of grips. The fit of our size-large gloves was good, though the fingers weren’t quite as long as we’d have liked. A bulky tab on the long-ish wrist offers reasonable, if not amazing, adjustability. There’s a good-sized microsuede snot wipe, which even when sodden with sweat is good for wiping away more, and it’s not too rough on the skin either. While the seams aren’t flat, we had no rubbing issues. Price $45

ALTURA’S ATTACK 360Windproof is another ‘technical hoody’ style, and if you love the ’80s style colourblocked graphics you’re probably sold already. Again, it’s very much a casual crossover jacket, made from a lightweight fabric that provides wind and water resistance.

YOU DON’T EXPECT anything incredibly sophisticated in terms of styling for 46$, but the Mayhem is better than basic. The shoulder cut is generous enough for easy movement, and the sleeves are a good length, making for nice mobility without undue bagginess.