TESTED: DHaRCO women's trail gear

All photos: Colin Levitch

Dharco is no stranger to the Australian trail riding and downhill mountain biking scene, and in recent years the brand has gone from strength to strength, developing high-quality trail riding attire that ticks both form and functionality boxes, for both men and women alike.

I've had a few pieces on high rotation in my cycling wardrobe for a few months – this is how they panned out.

Ladies Gravity Jersey

Dharco’s Gravity jerseys feature full-length sleeves, offering greater protection, while mesh panels allow for increased airflow. This jersey is on the more relaxed-fit size; perfect if using body armour or heading out for a day on the shuttles.

The monochrome design steps away from the neon gravity-dude attire of mountain bike clothing into stylish and fashionable attire that looks as good in the pub as it does on the race-track. There are a bunch of designs on DHaRCO's webstore to choose from.

This jersey also features a pocket, and is made from recycled yarn.

RRP: $79.95

Ladies Gravity Pants

The Gravity Pants are a new offering from Dharco, and I was surprised to reach for the long-legged options so frequently.

The perfect option for DH or gravity racing, the full length pants are a slim-fit, but very flattering and the four-way stretch fabric allowed ease of movement on the bike while offering more protection than shorts.

The pants feature three pockets for essentials and are sized to fit knee-pads (note: bulky knee-pads may be difficult to fit). These guys are as at home at the pump track or dirt jumps as they are in the chairlift or for a full day of runs.

RRP: $179.95

You might find some of the colour Anna tested are either on sale, or out of stock. Fear not! DHaRCO still have lots of options – just check out their complete women's range.

Ladies Gravity Shorts 

I tested the Ladies Gravity Shorts in Teal, and the colour is on point, though if it’s not your bag these also come in camo and black.

These shorts offer protection and hover just over knee pads. Dharco use Blue Sign approved fabrics, which reduce environmental waste in the production of this fabric, which is hard wearing and long-lasting.

RRP: $125

Ladies Padded Party Pants 

The Party Pants are Dharco’s latest offering, addressing the hole in their product line for inner shorts to be used with their gravity pants. The party pants are FUN, a big departure from plain black inners that most brands stock. The women’s specific chamois is adequate for a full day of runs or trail riding. The comfort cross-over waistband did not go unnoticed, and the shorts features a side-stash pocket (perfect for hidden snacks), grippers to ensure the shorts didn’t ride up and breathable fabric. We felt these were a good entry into the world of short liners/knicks, however those who prefer the compressive feel of road and XCO lycra may find them less firm than other options.

RRP: $85

Ladies 3/4 Sleeve Jersey

The 3/4 sleeve jersey is another staple in the Dharco range that has been revamped with a range of new designs for 2020.

I really enjoyed wearing this jersey with the Teal Gravity shorts, and found the 3/4 sleeve a great year-round option in warmer climates, and would perform well in all but the coolest of winters (we are looking at you, Tassie!).

Similar to the gravity jersey, the 3/4 sleeve features mesh panels for increased cooling, and a handy stash pocket.

RRP: $69.95

You might find some of the colour Anna tested are either on sale, or out of stock. Fear not! DHaRCO still have lots of options – just check out their complete women’s range.

DHaRCO Ladies Tech Tee

The tech-tee was my go-to tee for pump track days, rides with the kids, or anytime you can fit in a quick shred between errands.

It also doubles as a great casual tee, and stepped well between the trail and the grocery run. The fit was slim; if a more relaxed fit is required we recommend sizing up.

RRP: $59.95

Ladies Gloves

Dharco’s women’s gloves in Tropical are perfect for the Australian climate, with mesh uppers and lightweight palms they’re both attractive and functional.

Most importantly, they fit well, are unobtrusive, and are smart screen friendly.

RRP: $36.50