TESTED: DHaRCO kids' clothing
Got some kids who need some better gear for trail shredding? DHaRCO have you covered.
Barriers to entry of the sport of mountain biking for kids are being smashed, with bike manufacturers developing lighter and better bikes for smaller kids and adults paying attention to the specific needs of very small people riding dirt. In this vein we have seen Bontrager release the Jet WaveCel youth and children’s range of helmets: no longer paying lip-service these helmets feature top of the range technology for keeping the mini-groms’ brains intact.
Dharco is no stranger when it comes to comfortable and stylish trail clothing, but why should adults have all the fun? With the recent uptick in cycling more broadly, trails have exploded at the seams with the next generation of trail groms, and like major bike brands and helmet manufacturers, Dharco are producing stylish threads for the youngest of shredders.
I spoke with Dharco designer and co-owner Mandy Davis about the rationale behind the kid’s range, “we like to make things we need personally… so yes being parents was a big reason and wanting the mini shredders to be able to be decked out like the parents”. Being part of the mountain bike community is important to Dharco, “It’s something I love about the kids range, they really look and feel the part which makes them want to ride more”.
Youth Gravity Shorts
The Gravity shorts lend heavily from their adult range in their high-quality construction and four-way stretch material, but little bodies will benefit from a drawstring adjustment. Similar to the adult range, a no snag crotch assists saving face when things get a bit spicier on the trail, and the shorts are also kneepad compatible. The side pocket is a perfect size for several jelly snakes—or alternatively—an interesting rock and a variety of unusually coloured leaves.
The Nylon/Spandex fabric is water resistant, and washes mess and grit off quite well: important for the mums and dads of future Danny MacAskills.
The fit was comfortable and true to size for the slightly smaller-than-average model (8 years old, wearing a size 8 she had room to grow). Similar to the adult range, Dharco has gone above and beyond using Blue Sign approved fabrics: which are more environmentally friendly in their manufacturing process, so you can feel good while you look good. In addition to the blue, tested, the shorts are available in Aqua and Black and in sizes from XS (corresponding to a children's 4) to an XL (children’s 8).
HITS:
– Drawstring adjustability easy for little people
– Pocket!
– Water resistant and good, robust fabric (same as adult range!)
MISSES:
– The thicker fabric will be warm during summer
– At this stage no kids padded knick option
RRP: $89.95
From: dharco.com
DHaRCO Youth 3/4 Sleeve Jersey
Similar to the adult range, the children’s range includes 3/4 fit and full-length ‘gravity’ fit jerseys. We tested the 3/4 sleeve option in stealth, an understated grey/black design that mirrors the look of the adult range. Sizing range is as per the gravity shorts above, and the fit is relaxed and comfortable. Compared to a t-shirt, the jersey offers more sun protection (and can cover elbow pads) and is lightweight, with quick drying 100% polyester fabric to whisk the sweat away.
The zip pocket is a crowd pleaser, once again able to be filled with a few dollars for a hot chocolate at the end of a run, more jelly snakes and an ID card in case they go AWOL shredding harder than mum and dad.
HITS:
– Relaxed style, cool designs just like mum and dad
– Relaxed fit for all-day adventures
MISSES:
– Can be difficult for small people to use the pocket
RRP: $55
From: dharco.com
