Marc Strucken
· 02.05.2024
Perhaps someone has already used the outdoor clothing from Outdoor Research (OR) for biking, even though it was not explicitly developed for mountain biking. But now there are jerseys, shorts and a lightweight jacket as well as gloves and a hip bag with a special cut and corresponding functions that make sense for mountain biking.
Discussions with our customers have shown us that there is a real need for better-fitting, technically sophisticated trail riding clothing. So it was a logical next step for us to expand directly into the trail riding category. - Kylene Wolfe, Senior Product Manager of Sportswear at Outdoor Research
One extra right from the start: Outdoor Research generally offers its cycling clothing in sizes XS to XXL and in a "Plus" version up to 4XL. The shirts and shorts also have a sun protection factor of UPF 30 or even 50, which is right up to date!
The Freewheel Half Zip Hoodie offers protection against wind and moisture on days with changeable weather. Thanks to its breathability and quick-drying properties, you will always stay comfortable. With its half-length zip, it is easy to pull on and the hood offers plenty of room, even for a helmet. The hoodie's robust two-layer fabric ensures flexibility and unrestricted freedom of movement when cycling. It is made from environmentally friendly, bluesign-certified and recycled materials. The hoodie also offers UPF 50+ protection against intense sunlight, making it ideal for long rides. It is also available in plus sizes for women.
Design features:
Price (RRP): 189 euros // 209.90 euros (W Plus up to 4XL)
The Freewheel long-sleeve and T-shirt from Outdoor Research are made from moisture-wicking, quick-drying and breathable materials. They also offer practical features such as an extended back and protection from UV rays with a UPF value of over 30. The seams on the shoulders are positioned so that they do not rub under a rucksack. Thanks to ActiveTemp technology, the body temperature is regulated even on strenuous rides. The microfibre cloth integrated into the hem can be used to clean sunglasses or goggles on the go.
Price (RRP): Shortsleeve 64.90 euros // Shortsleeve W Plus 69.90 euros // Longsleeve 79.90 euros
OR's trail riding shorts are made from a durable stretch material that stretches in all directions and has extra reinforcement at the edges to make it more resistant to wear and tear. It has a higher cut back area that offers more protection when seated. In addition, air holes applied with a laser in the rear area ensure improved air circulation. The fit can be perfectly adjusted thanks to discreet adjustment options at the waist. Small items can be stowed in the side pockets. The Freewheel cycling shorts for women are also available in plus sizes.
Design features:
Price (RRP): W 129.90 euros // W Plus 149.90 euros // M 124.90 euros
Outdoor Research has been producing gloves for almost all outdoor sports for decades - except for mountain biking. Now OR has brought its glove expertise to the new Freewheel Bike Gloves. The regular Freewheel Bike Gloves are made of a lightweight nylon fabric and a synthetic suede palm. The Freewheel Leather Palm Bike Gloves, on the other hand, are made from heavier nylon fabric with a palm made from hard-wearing goatskin. A 3D-printed overlay on the back of the hand is designed to provide additional abrasion resistance in high-wear areas. Both gloves are touchscreen-compatible and have a sweat-absorbing area on the back of the thumb.
Price (RRP): 44.90 euros
Price (RRP): 64.90 euros
A hip bag is essential for mountain bike tours, but many are often too compact for extended rides. The Outdoor Research Freewheel 5L Hip Pack offers enough storage space for any type of tour and can still be strapped together to save space for shorter trips. It is equipped with a holder for drinking bottles on the side, has a spacious main compartment for a hydration system, a smaller compartment for sunglasses at the back and a foldable net for more storage space, ideal for bulky items such as knee protectors. The hip bag is also available in oversizes.
Price (RRP): 84.90 euros
Outdoor Research is based in Seattle and is dedicated to manufacturing technical clothing and equipment for outdoor activities such as mountaineering, trekking, rock climbing and ice climbing. The company was founded in 1981 by Ron Gregg. Gregg, originally an expert in nuclear physics, combined his enthusiasm for the environment with his expertise to design products that meet the specific needs of outdoor enthusiasts.

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