TESTED: Ground Effect bikepacking gear

Photos: Tim Bardsley-Smith

Prepping for the a 3000km self-supported bike packing event, the inaugural Tour Aotearoa, finding appropriate clothing was a vital piece of the puzzle to enjoy my weeks on the trail. The brief-bombproof clothing for all the elements that NZ can throw at you & comfortable enough to want to wear day-in, day-out for weeks on end. A tall order, but who better consult than the people living and breathing the bikepacking lifestyle, Ground Effect.

Ground Effect are a passionate, rider-owned company based out of Christchurch that make no-nonsense riding apparel and have done for over 20 years. Looking over their website I decided that I would do the old fashioned thing and call to see what they would recommend. As luck would have it I spoke to somebody else doing the event. After an enlightening conversation my pack list was revised and condensed and a post bag full of goodies was sent my way. Some fresh knicks, jersey and socks arrived from across the Tasman only 2 days later.

The Exocets sit at the top of the Ground Effect knick range, a well thought out 12-panel design with performance at its heart. The Exocets are super comfortable, it’s hard to quantify exactly what it is that makes it so, more that it is just a sum of all parts. It’s apparent that all the details have been thought of, the high waist and wide elastic waist band holds them in place and the extra height stops a laden jersey from riding up to expose skin and create a fashion faux par. The shockwave Lycra uses coupled flat stitching and generous textured leg cuffs hug and support the legs in a way that I haven’t experienced in any other knicks. The multi-level foam Exo Skeletal chamois made for a plush ride; the anti-bacterial finish and fast drying features were very welcome where conventional washing facilities were few and far between.

They are also available as a bib and brace called the Ringleader. Ground Effect also offers a 3 month free trial on these.

Not reinventing the wheel but instead refining it, the Zip Tie has been in the Ground Effect range for years now, being tweaked and modified to be the no- nonsense jersey that is available today. For long days in the sun I was stoked to have the protection of the long sleeves. Being initially sceptical of sleeves for cooling properties I am now a convert, the moisture being wicked away from the skin turned the material into an air conditioner of sorts. This slim fit summer jersey worked a treat, this was the only top that I took & I never wanted for more, used in conjunction with layers, this is a jersey I would happily use year round. It is a functional with the standard 3 pockets across the rear and a small zippered pocket for valuables with a ¾ zip up front. The super trick Hyperactive material used offers SPF50+ protection and also dries superfast to keep you cool and comfortable. 

My only quibble is that a more hi-viz option could be available, whether that be in brighter colour or reflective piping for those looking to use for on road activities. Relaxed fit and women’s cuts are also available.

Ground Effect Foot Soldiers were the sole pair of socks that I took, they were as comfy as they come. After nearly 3 weeks on the bike they still look like the day I bought them.

All the pieces performed exceptionally throughout the event & looking about all the other riders on course it was no surprise as to why so much of their product was used. A passionate company making great equipment that supports the riding community both in NZ aboard. Check out groundeffecct.co.nz for further details on the products & projects.

Hits:

• Fit for purpose gear made right in New Zealand

Misses:

• Can’t try it on in a shop – but you can return it.

From: groundeffect.co.nz

RRP: Exocets – $159, Zip Tie – $115, Foot Soldiers – $27