Fresh Threads for Summer Shreds
As the temperature rises, it's time to swap out your heavy gear for lightweight mountain bike clothing designed for warm weather.
Best Lightweight Mountain Bike Clothing for Summer 2024/2025: Comfort, Durability & Performance
As the temperature rises, it’s time to swap out your heavy gear for lightweight mountain bike clothing designed for warm weather. When it comes to cycling apparel, finding the right combination of durability, comfort, and freedom of movement is essential — especially for summer rides. Lightweight gear should never compromise performance.
Many leading mountain bike brands excel with their moisture-wicking technology, keeping riders cool and dry even during the toughest climbs and the hottest days. Others stand out with exceptional fit, eliminating issues like chafing or shifting mid-ride. With so many options available, it’s crucial to strike the perfect balance between comfort, functionality, and design.
Whether you’re tackling challenging technical trails or enjoying some fast flow on the descent, the right mountain bike kit can significantly enhance your riding experience, boosting your confidence on every ride. We tested some fresh kit from Frankd, Sendy, Cycology and Leatt so you can make an informed choice when curating your riding wardrobe.
Reviewers:
Anna Beck
Bam Da Silva
Max Hobson
Andy
Annie Arnott
FrankD
FRANKD is an Western Australian mountain bike clothing brand born from a passion for the outdoors and a desire to create gear that blends performance with style. Founded by a group of riders frustrated by the lack of durable, comfortable, and functional mountain biking apparel, FRANKD set out to design clothing that could withstand the toughest trails while offering a sleek, modern look.
Drawing inspiration from riding in Australia’s rugged landscapes, the brand uses high-quality materials and innovative designs to craft gear that keeps riders comfortable and confident, no matter the conditions. FRANKD is quickly gaining recognition for its attention to detail and rider-first approach. We tested the Demand Shorts and Air Tech Jersey in both men’s and women’s.
Frankd The Demand Shorts
RRP: $114.95
Size Range: 4XS–3XL
The Demand Shorts feature a lightweight, breathable four-way stretch fabric with elasticised velcro tabs for waist adjustment.
These shorts are designed to be long enough to avoid kneepad gap, and feature hip-based zip pockets as well as a right thigh pocket, if you’re someone who likes to stash snacks in your pants. While we tested these out in the amazing purple colourway, they are available in black as well.
Frankd have ensured there is a size for everyone, offering sizes from 4XS (22”) to 3XL (40”).
“The shorts fit comfortably – generally I wear a medium, but this time I sized up, so I did cop a bit of bunching around the thighs. They sit comfortably while pedalling and descending – I don’t notice a lot of movement during either, which is where I’ve had pants fail in the past. The material feels durable but also cool. When riding on hot days the shorts were not the source of any heat-related grief.
The right thigh pocket is well-placed, but I feel it could be bigger as the owner of an oversized mobile telephone. The left hip pocket is convenient for lift passes, a key and lip balm.
The button/zipper combo feels solid – I didn’t feel at risk of popping a button at any time – and the Velcro straps at the waist feel like they assist in modifying fit at the waist without compromising fit elsewhere.
The width of the leg feels roomy without being too baggy so there is minimal knee pads/chamois sausage effect. I feel like these could be worn at the hip or above the navel, which would make them ideal for those in high-waisted and hipster camps.
These are offered in both black and purple, obviously I went purple, which was my favourite colour as a little kid.” -Annie Arnott
Contributor Ryan Walsch tested the Demand Shorts in purple.
“The Demand shorts are like a straight-leg fit. This means it’s tonight around my bum and baggy at the knee and hips. They’re also loose around the waist. I tested a size medium, and my experience with these shorts is pretty normal for me. I have a size 30” waist but usually need a 32” so the shorts fit my thighs and butt. I normally look for a really stretchy fabric to accommodate. The fabric used is nice though! For most people these will be a classic fit, and they fit true to size”
Frankd AirTech Short Sleeve Jersey, Women’s and Men’s
RRP: $64.99
Size Range: XXS–2XL
We tested the AirTech WSS Jersey, as the founder of FRANKD, Francis Staude, recommended it as the lightest jersey in their lineup. With ultra-breathable fabric on the chest, back and arms and mesh side panels, the AirTech WSS is the jersey to reach for during those hooter rides.
The Jersey is available in XXS–XXL size ranges and features a standard fit with a drop tail for extra coverage when riding.
“The top, in baby blue with blue, pink and white accents, is cute but functional. This one spoke to me because of the mountain/full moon image – call me a sucker for anything with a mountain and a moon on it. I usually wear a small or medium top and this in a medium feels fairly true to size. The sleeves are a decent length and the cut is flattering without being too form-fitting. Having worn it on some hot early-season rides, the Air Tech fabric feels pretty breathable and wicking and dries fairly quickly after a sweaty climb. Sadly, due to a run-in with a blackberry thorn (trailside scouting, not crash-related!), the top has a battle wound or two. I’ll put that down to user error.”
“Overall, it’s a cute bit of kit; both pieces match nicely with one another but would look good separate from each other. The top does the trick on warm days, though I do feel like I need to wear sunscreen underneath, as it isn’t noted to have any protective UV factor on the website. It also ticks the ‘cute without feeling patronising’ box, which can be a turn-off in the MTB apparel scene. I feel like I have been on what feels like an eternal search for the holy grail of MTB bottoms (high waisted, loose without being baggy, decent thickness for durability, well-placed pockets) and these ones don’t have me leaping to buy a pair in every colour. That said, they’re comfortable, not black and so far have served me well.” –Annie Arnott
“Once again, the fabric is nice, and the fit is casual. The jersey is so nice and airy for summer, and the AirTech SS jersey is in a nice relaxed sizing”
SENDY
The boom in mountain bikers reaching parent age exposed a huge gap in the market: well-priced, cool kids’ mountain bike gear. Sendy was initially created to fill this void and had such success that they expanded their range to adult clothing.
If you head to any mountain bike park on the school holidays, you can see the impact Sendy has had on the mountain biking elite of tomorrow!
We tested some of their latest drop of long and short-sleeved jerseys, with pants and shorts alongside their new kid’s dial flat shoe. Their new range of wild colours and patterns suit almost every shredder out there, regardless of age!
Send It Adults Long Sleeved MTB Jersey, Kiwi Crush
$74.95
Size Range: XS-XL
“Kiwi Crush! I’ve never had a crush on a Kiwi, truth be told, but as a lover of Kiwi Fruit as well as Kiwi birds, maybe this could change.
The Kiwi Crush long-sleeved jersey sports fancy green and black hues that are enough to stand out in the chairlift line. I tested a size Small, which was on the large size as the Kiwi Crush long-sleeved jersey is a unisex product. I would call it true to size considering this. It’s not crazy big and will serve me well when using armour or after the Christmas holidays, when you’re looking for that extra give in the pants and jersey!
The long sleeves are perfect for sun protection during a big day shuttling, and the jersey features a little snack trap zip pocket on the rear. The material is reasonably lightweight ‘technical polymesh’ that features a small amount of stretch and UV protection for big days on the mountain.” -Anna
Send It Adults MTB Pants | Kiwi Crush
$119.95
Size Range: XS-XL
“The Send It adults MTB pants in Kiwi Crush represent fantastic value; at $119.95, they’re significantly less expensive than other mountain bike pants on the market.
I tested a size small in these, and like the Kiwi Crush jersey they are unisex sizing. I found the size small to be a good fit; roomy enough for pads and with adequate waist adjustment to cinch in thanks to the elasticised velcro tabs. A sturdy zip and double press stud in the front keeps you secure.
In case of awkward dismounts, these pants feature a black reinforced knee panel and taper nicely down the calf with an elastic panel at the heel. This is a nice touch, as other pants we have previously tested required a high level of yoga when removing them in order to get the cuff over the heel.
Feeling snacky? The Send It pants also feature two pockets for double the snacks. These are also available in black and other patterned offerings.” –Anna
Send It Adults Short Sleeved MTB Jersey Rust
$64.95
Size Range: XS-XL
“As a lycra wearing roadie most of the time, I’ve always steered away from loose fitting clothing. But as I reconnect with my mountain biking roots, that needed to change. I’ve been really impressed with the gear from Sendy, particularly the short sleeve jersey that I’ve been testing over the past few weeks.
The rust short sleeve jersey looks fantastic, featuring striking gold or ‘rust’ splashes against a black base. Paired with the black MTB shorts from Sendy, I felt stylish and confident—subtle enough to blend in but bold enough to stand out. I tested a size Medium, which fit me perfectly as a 178cm/ 65kg male.
For someone used to riding hours in tight fitting road cycling apparel, I was genuinely impressed by how comfortable Sendy’s kit was. The black jersey is exceptionally breathable, keeping me cool even while riding in the Queensland summer heat.”
Send It Adults MTB Shorts Bold Black
$84.95
Size Range: XS-XL
“When Anna gave me the heads up that I’d be reviewing some new MTB shorts from Sendy, I was excited. I’d been meaning to retire my ‘wrong tool for the job’ cargo shorts for ages.
The Sendy MTB shorts fit me perfectly in size Medium as a 178cm/ 65kg male. They feature a hip adjustment system with plenty of range for a tailored fit. The length of MTB shorts is something I’m always cautious about, as I prefer them to sit just above the knee and not hanging too far past it. Fortunately, these shorts hit the perfect length. They also include two upper pockets on the left and right, along with a larger lower pocket on the right leg, ideal for carrying gels or other small essentials.
Out on the trails, the Sendy MTB shorts performed as expected—which is exactly what you want from new gear. At the end of the day, MTB shorts should be comfortable for long hours in the saddle, look good, and carry the essentials and these deliver on all fronts.” -Max
Sendy Shred Sole Youth MTB Shoes Dialled
$119.95
Size Range: 3–10
“The fit of the Sendy Shred Sole Youth MTB shoes is true to size. The dial works seamlessly and is easy for little fingers to adjust on the go, much easier than tying up laces repeatedly! The sole is flexible enough to be able to walk in, perfect for groms who love to get out in nature and build dirt jumps and just fang around being kids as well as ride bikes. Our tester Rhett is super pumped about his mountain biking shoes, and ready to hit up the big trails like his dad.” –Andy
Send It Kids Short Sleeved MTB Jersey Snow Leopard
$49.95
Size Range: S-XL
“The kids short sleeved jersey fits true to size, our tester is nine years old and fitted a medium perfectly. The pocket feature hasn’t been used yet, but we have a range of all day adventures planned and it is the perfect size for snacks. We found that the breathability was exceptional. The Snow Leopard jersey is now Rhett’s favourite shirt, and gets a workout at school, on weekends and going to the beach… as well as on the trail.” –Andy
Send It Kids MTB Shorts Shred Forest
$74.95
Size Range: S-XL
“The Sendy Send It Kids shorts in Shred Forest colour are comfortablefor little waists. With a nicely adjustable waist tab, it offers a bit of growing room for an active kid. For an average 9 year old, these shorts in medium are able to facilitate knee pads for bike park laps. Pockets are a good size, and these shorts represent good value for money for the active family. Like the Snow Leopard jersey, these shorts are getting a workout regardless of activity, proving they’re pretty versatile regardless of the amount of time spent riding!” -Andy
Cycology
Cycology is a Sydney-based brand born from a love of design and cycling. Husband and wife team Michael and Sarina had a vision to create attire based on hand-drawn designs, adding a little bit of spice and creativity to a space that can be a little sterile and boring.
While they began as a predominantly road-based company, Cycology now offers short and long-sleeved mountain bike jerseys sporting their unique patterns in both men’s and women’s fit.
What we loved about the Cycology website was that it had a unique fit tool, which allows riders to input height and weight and estimate the best size based on that data.
Jungle Jungle Women’s Long Sleeve MTB Jersey
$89.95
Size Range: S–2XL
“Using the online calculator, I am a medium in this jersey, but upon measuring myself I tested a small size: it was definitely right between a tight race fit and a loose fit (in fact, I think they call this a regular fit!) Leaving enough room for some body armour if desired. If I wanted a more downhill fit, then the online calculator would be right on, as I am right between small and medium in most clothing at 168cm and 64kg.
The women’s-specific jersey tailors at the waist for a sleek silhouette and the fabric– while not specifically ultra light–was quick drying and cool enough to commute to the gym by bike, hit a workout, and cruise home via the trails on a 30-degree day. It would get quite hot riding hard on a warm day in the long-sleeved jersey, but for casual and lower-paced rides it’s a great option to stay sun-smart during your ride.
The handy rear pocket was perfect for a muesli bar stash for the return journey, and the material featured a little more stretch than other brands on test. The V-neck fit is quite flattering, and the design is really eye-catching. Polling a mixed group of women (some cyclists, some not) the opinions were really split, and it was intense: they either loved it, or they hated it!
I appreciate that the designs of Cycology aren’t for everyone, but matched up with a black trail short, or black pants they add a pop of colour or flair to any chairlift, or trailhead. If you wanted to go full-noise you could match up with some leopard print pants to really make a statement!
The level of detail in the design is commendable; cranks and chains are hidden throughout the design. Plus, the leopards…they have seen some things! For the arty mountain biker out there, definitely consider a gift of a short or long-sleeved mountain bike jersey from Cycology.” -Anna
Molokai Short Sleeve Men’s MTB Jersey
$79.95
Size Range: S–2XL
Our tester chose the Molokai short-sleeved men’s mountain biker jersey to test, in size medium. Without a tropical beach holiday on the radar, the mixture of Tiki-vibes, ferns and hibiscus would have to do.
Featuring the unique artwork of all Cycology products, the Molokai design offered pops of colour and the same lightweight, stretchy fabric seen in the women’s product. The sizing calculator for this tester suggested a medium for a 180cm rider at 73kg, and he found it to be on the looser side.
While the tester wasn’t into some of the crazier designs Cycology offer, the black with popping colours of flamingos, sea turtles and frangipani featured enough balance between crazy and restraint. Similar to the Jungle Jungle women’s jersey, the design features enough chain and crank ‘easter eggs’ in the design to keep you looking and a departure from a generic Hawaiian shirt.
“The Molokai Short Sleeve jersey exists on that borderline of being too crazy and just right.I enjoyed the pink flamingos and sneaky addition of chain links within the design. The fabric itself is reasonably breathable; not quite ultra light mesh but not a heavy fabric either. Being a short sleeved jersey, this would work well through all seasons in northern states. And a perfect jersey for most of the year in all other states.
I found the fit to be quite relaxed, I am often a large in a European fit, or a regular fit medium and the Molokai jersey in medium was quite generous in size. If you prefer a slim fit, it may be worthwhile sizing down. All in all, I quite liked the design, and the jersey is at home on the commute or trail ride as it is doing bike park laps. Cycology jerseys are a great option for the flamboyant mountain biker in your life” –El Fonso
LEATT
http://mtb.leatt.com.aumtb.leatt.com.au
LEATT, a South African brand originally known for its groundbreaking neck braces, has expanded its expertise into mountain bike clothing, offering a range that emphasizes protection, performance, and comfort. Designed for serious riders, LEATT’s mountain bike apparel incorporates advanced materials and safety features to ensure optimal protection when hitting gnarly terrain.
While their aesthetic leans more on the traditional side of things – especially when pitted against brands such as Shredly and Cycology – we were immediately very impressed by the quality and fit of the product. What we liked even more was their use of compostable packaging, no plastic in sight!
Anna and Bam took the range of Leatt threads out for a test drive.
Leatt Jersey MTB All Mtn 2.0 Women Purple
RRP: $89.00
Sizes: XS–2XL
“I love a bit of purple, and the Leatt All Mtn 2.0 jersey in purple delivers just enough pop to stand out. Leatt state that the jersey is ‘where eco-friendly fabric meets modern design’, that uses tree-pulp in their high performance tencel material. The fabric is super soft and gentle, which is a great option for those who struggle with irritation from sweaty fabric.
I would describe the fit as regular, I tested a size small and it toed the line between race fit and baggy. The fit is true to size. The jersey features a goggle/glasses wiper and a zipped back pocket, though riding the Leatt kit I would prefer to keep snacks on the bike, or in a pinch, in my short pockets.
The All Mtn 2.0 jersey is designed for use with or without a neck brace and features extra padding around the collar to reinforce the area.
The jersey itself can become quite wet, as the material is more t-shirt like than others on test, however it does dry reasonably quickly. I really enjoyed using this for casual trail rides, commutes and even warm days on the shuttle when it feels too warm for a long sleeved jersey!” -Anna
Leatt Shorts MTB All Mtn 2.0 Women Black
RRP: 129.95
Sizes: XS–2XL
“To start off, let me say that these are perhaps the best mountain bike shorts I have ever worn. The Leatt All MTN 2.0 short packs numerous features into a comfortable package.
Checking the size chart, I selected a medium in these when usually I’d choose a small. However, they do tend to run true to size and I would probably be comfortable in a size small. The medium size is fine, I just have a little extra fabric around the seat area.
Key features of the shorts include their ‘one waist’ solution (aka: stretchy waistband), 360 degree stretch woven polyester that is water resistant, multiple pockets and laser-cut ventilation holes.
I have been testing these out on the trails and they’re just about perfect for the changeable weather that we have been experiencing recently. From 30-plus degrees and thick humidity to 20 degrees and raining; I have managed to test these shorts in hot, wet and dirty conditions.
The laser-cut ventilation holes make a noticeable difference in the heat, even when wearing padded shorts underneath. In the rain, these shorts repel water. Having slid down a muddy chute in the rain on my bum, I was impressed that the shorts washed right out without wearing the fabric.
I am not a huge lover of pockets in shorts. For those who are, the All MTN 2.0 shorts feature two zippered hip pickets, a leg pocket and a back pocket. One has an elastic key loop, and the leg pocket features an elasticised compartment to keep your phone secure.
Most notably, they’re super lightweight and very comfortable. At $129.95 they represent a mid-priced wardrobe essential.” -Anna
Leatt Jersey MTB Trail 1.0 X-Flow
The Leatt MTB Trail 1.0 X-Flow jersey has been designed with hot climates in mind. The X-Flow mesh fabric is super vented, lightweight and moisture-wicking. The tailored stretch fit makes it really comfortable to wear.
“The Leatt MTB Trail 1.0 X-Flow is extremely well made, and is incredibly breathable. It does a fabulous job of pushing moisture away from the body. Overlocked seams are barely noticeable and the fabric itself is comfortable next to skin. The fit is a little slimmer than the MTB Gravity 1.0 jersey, but far from race fit.
This is the ultimate jersey for riding in hot climates.” –Bam
Leatt Jersey MTB Gravity 1.0 Lavender
The Leatt MTB Gravity 1.0 range is crafted from the same tencel fabric as the women’s all mountain jersey also tested. It features the same soft feel and relaxed fit as the women’s range. Bam tested the jersey in the peak of December’s heat.
“The Leatt MTB Gravity 1.0 jersey is a really nice styling and fit, perfect for the trail rider that wants a technical shirt that looks like a t-shirt. The Fabric on the Gravity 1.0 jersey is a bit heavier than the Trail 1.0 X-Flow, however even on really hot and humid days it managed to survive the Brisbane humidity without making me overheat.
I really enjoyed this jersey for that multi purpose look, and the lavender really made my eyes pop” – Bam
