All Arround MTB

Vaude have a commitment to creating environmentally-friendly products, and the Larrau features ‘Eco Finish’, a water-repellent treatment that’s PFC free. We can’t attest to its long-term durability, but from new it works well. This smart jacket feels nice and light, and the inner face of the fabric contains a touch of merino wool, giving it a comfortable balance of warmth and breathability. We liked the cut, with its tall collar and long body, but found the top of the sleeves snug compared to the rest of the jacket, which restricted movement on the bike. If you have a swimmer’s build you may need to size up. There are two zipped chest pockets that double as vents, plus one rear side pocket. The well-designed cuffs extend over your hands, and the zip garage and reflective trim are welcome features. Weight 410g Price $255

We liked Vaude’s original Tremalzo jacket when we tested it last year, because it had some impressive features for the money. This second-generation version continues the theme of good all-round performance at an affordable price. If the environmental footprint of your bike wear is important to you, the Tremalzo II gets off to a good start, because its fabric is bluesign certified. The fit treads that fine line between allowing enough room for layers without being too oversized for riding. Features include mesh-lined pockets, water-resistant zips, a drawcord hem and an over-thehelmet hood. The two-layer fabric has a rubbery feel against bare skin though (mild and wet autumn weather dictated testing it mostly this way), and you need to use the pit zips once things start to warm up. Weight 271g Price $210

The Moab AM is the new flat-pedal shoe in Vaude’s eco-friendly range of MTB kit (even the laces are made from recycled plastic). It’s aimed at DH and trail riders who want good traction both on the pedals and on foot.

VAUDE ARE COMMITTED to using sustainable and environmentallyfriendly materials, and the Posta has the ‘bluesign’ seal of approval as well as bearing the German brand’s own Green Shape and Eco Finish badges, meaning that the water-repellant finish is made without fluorocarbons.

Vaude’s greatest trick is making a large, spacious pack sit neatly in place without any drama, even when fully laden. That’s mainly due to the (removable) solid backplate and the cavernous main pocket. Tools have their own easy-access pocket and there’s plenty of support thanks to the chunky waist straps.