TESTED: Fox gravel clothing

Photos: Gerard Lagana

Gravel riding has exploded in the past couple of years, and it may or may not be something you are interested in. Here at AMB it gets welcomed into our friendship circle, as for many, gravel is an introduction to cycling in a safe, off-road environment. And that should be applauded. While a lot of social media will be telling you gravel is about long adventures, huge challenges, beards, plaid shorts and 1x drivetrains – don't listen. Gravel can just be you, outdoors, riding the bike you have, on a dirt road or chill trail. Still, when a major clothing company like Fox release a gravel range, you know things are going mainstream. The cycling gear you own is likely fine for gravel, but if you want to look at some items that are a good fit (pun intended) for gravel – read on.

READ: Gravel adventures in the high country

Fox Flexair Ascent LS Jersey – $79.99

I'm a sucker for a light long-sleeve jersey, given the benefits of sun protection plus a bit for abrasion and the like. This one has evolved from the Flexair range, so it is light and fitted. The material over the body is a recycled polyester that is very breathable, but the back of the arms and shoulder yoke have a stronger material to withstand some wear. There are no pockets, and no real collar. But the sleeve length is long, and I found the back length to be spot on. At 178cm I wore a medium.

This jersey has quickly become my go to for Queensland winter rides (don't hate our 21 degree days) and I liked it for some casual gravel rides as well, when paired with some of the other items. It paired best when combined with some light cargo bibs, so nothing was lost for storage.

I'd like a little more collar for sun protection, but I cannot think of a way to do this with aesthetic function. At $80 this is a winner for trail riding, casual XC, or gravel – it's a firm favourite and also available in a dark slate and cordovan (as shown in the short sleeve photos).

Fox Flexair Ascent SS Jersey – $79.99

The short sleeve jersey is a near mirror image of the long – just with short sleeves. The subtle changes to have an impact on how the jersey sits are on the shoulder yoke, with Fox's Carvico material used over the majority of the upper arm. This material is stronger, but also allows for a more fitted cut. The result is a short sleeve jersey that has a very fitted upper arm, not unlike a full-zip race jersey. But the body remains the very breathable recycled polyster.

In a way, this means the jersey walks the line between a fitted jersey and a trail jersey. If you're all about the gun show you'll love it. But if I want a fitted jersey I want a full zip and pockets for function. That's my preference. If you want a semi-fitted jersey with some trail looks, then you'll love this. Again, best paired with a cargo option with your bibs, shorts or on your bike. This one is available in black or dark slate as well.

---

Fox Flexair Ascent SL Jersey – $59.99

I haven't ridden in a sleeveless jersey since 1999, in an era where riders like Richie Schley would rail the Bookcliffs trails near Fruita for timeless No Fear print advertising photos. But for those with the beach bods, tan line aversion, or hot weather fancies, it makes sense. Gravel is about you doing you, and if that means sleeveless jerseys – put those scissors down as Fox have you covered.

This thing is whisper light (84g) and can do double duty at the gym and out running as well. The material mix is the same, and the cut in the body is fitted to suit the purpose.

Fox Flexair Ascent Short with Liner – $199.99

Any clothing range begins with shorts, as far as I'm concerned. A comfortable set of shorts that doesn't snag on a saddle, flap when pedalling, or in general just stays put – is exactly what you want for any sort of riding. Of course comfort is essential, so a liner or the ability to add your own is required. Fox offer the Flexair short with a liner (as tested) or without for $129.99. What should a pair of shorts designed for gravel look like? Something pared back with an exceptional cut.

The Flexair Ascent short has a super light, slightly stretchy material, with one zip pocket on the right thigh that can fit a phone. Fox use their ratchet buckle, and there is a stretch rear yoke to keep the shorts snug at the back hem. The liner has dual density chamois. Leg length is about 10”

I wore a size 30 in these, which was spot on for the waist, and good over the legs. However, they would catch a little and so the liners would peek out. I did try a 32 but really it just meant there was more room in the waist, not legs. The liner is about as good as any, but I find liners in shorts are a poor answer to the solution of comfort. So I removed it after two rides and used some light cargo bibs so I had back pockets. To me, this one item made the shorts and above jerseys all click. I hope Fox add a similar clothing item to the Flexair Ascent range.

Overall the cut and materials of the shorts are fantastic, but I was left hoping for a couple more centimetres of leg length. I'm not especially tall, or Quadzilla, but having the legs catch on liners (or bibs) and staying stuck in the middle of my legs is a huge cycling fashion faux pas.

Verdict

Fox have grabbed their mountain bike and moto know-how and blended that into the world of gravel. While the jerseys have hit the ground running, I think the shorts may not have the right fit for everyone – but they're finish and materials are incredible. The one downside is storage. You are committed to having all spares and snacks on your bike with the current range. I'm not adverse to running a bar bag or similar, but I think when Fox release a cargo bib to complement this range, it will be a far more complete line up for gravel riders.

From: Fox Racing Australia

Hits:
– Excellent materials and cut
– Great pricing on the jerseys
– Light materials that suit Australian climates

Misses:
– Legs may be too short for some
– Storage solution required