TESTED: Pearl Izumi men's trail gear 2016
Pearl Izumi have a wide range of trail gear for Spring and Summer. We've had some in use for a few months and so far, so... great!
Being comfortable on your bike has just as much to do with clothing and contact points as it does with bike fit and suspension setup. Imogen Smith had a play with the Pearl Izumi women's trail range, and here's a look at what's on offer for men. Matching the right clothing to your shape and riding style will have you more comfortable on the bike, and getting more out of it.
Pearl Izumi Summit Jersey
In essence a sporty t-shirt, the Summit jersey is lightweight, casual, and easy to pull on for a casual ride in the afternoon, or for a longer ride into the hills. It was an easy choice to take on a recent trip overseas, as it was light, packed up small, dried easily, and didn't look ridiculous off bike bike. If you're after something fitted with a zip and pockets – look elsewhere.
RRP: $49
Pearl Izumi Canyon Short
You can't get by without a good set of shorts… and the Canyon is a little shorter than many, and well-fitted. This isn't easy to come across, and I found it great to pull on for a day on the trails, or even for a quick dip in a river. The material is light with some stretch, the seams are flat and in the right places, and pockets are minimal. If you normally don't like baggy shorts due to the extra fuss – try these. They have a detachable liner so you can run comfortable ibshorts if you prefer.
RRP: $125
Pearl Izumi Divide Gloves
Lightweight and in snazzy colours, the Divide gloves are perfect if you don't want to lose bar feel on the bike. Best of all, the touchscreen friendly utility finger makes stopping Strava or catching Pokemon easy without the need to remove your gloves. The cut is excellent, and it's easy to forget you're wearing them.
RRP: $45
Pearl Izumi Transfer Jersey
This should be one of Pearl Izumi's most popular items. With a fitted cut and mix of materials, the Transfer jersey sits nicely, and breathes really well. It worked on hot days, and layered on cold days too. The mesh back is awesome in hot conditions, and the glasses wipe proved its worth countless times. It's also available in some brighter colours.
RRP: $99
Pearl Izumi Elite WXB Jacket
WHile it has some roadie style, the WXB jacket has full mountain features. With a high neck, long back, and long articulated sleeves, this jacket is perfect if you just have to be out in the rain. It is fully seam sealed, and the zip tab is easy to use with gloves or cold hands. This sort of piece will be in your wardrobe for a long time, and s quality waterproof jacket should be part of any dedicated rider's kit.
It's bright, but chances are you will be using it in less than optimal conditions.
RRP: $249
Pearl Izumi LTD Jersey
XC is cool, and this jersey has sharp colours and a great fit. The sleeves aren't elasticated so you forget it's there, but the cut and full zip means it is super functional, and even if you fill up the three pockets it will stay in place. An excellent jersey for the privateer racer, or high speed trail rider. The full zip will win points for anyone who has broken a collarbone recently!
RRP: $99
Pearl Izumi Summit Short
A little longer and with some more bells and whistles (ok pockets and stronger materials), this short will suit trail and some all-mountain riders. It will cover the top of your knee pads, and will look good both on and off the bike. The included liner is ok, but like most shorts if you want supreme comfort use your own shorts or bib shorts.
The cut has a tapered leg so they don't go full parachute at speed, and the standard pockets are great for keeping your phone or wallet at hand pre and post ride.
RRP: $135
