Monserat MTB clothing test: Tech Hoodie & Trail Pants - the carefree package
Marc Strucken
· 24.01.2025
Sometimes you want simple equipment that fits forever, is suitable for different weather conditions and always looks good. To paraphrase Franz Beckenbauer's exclamation of simplicity: Go out and play ... MTB! From Monserat in Freiburg comes MTB clothing that always fits from spring to autumn, from 10 to 20 degrees, from drizzle to sunshine: The Monserat MTB Tech Hoodie and the Monserat Trailpants (TP3).
We wore the hoodie and enduro trousers throughout the autumn and also on some warmer winter days. With a long bib and a warm top underneath, the use can also be extended into cooler temperature regions as long as it's not raining. But then there would be a rain jacket to wear over it.
Practical test of the Monserat MTB Tech Hoodie
There are two versions of the MTB Tech Hoodie from Monserat; we tested the version with sewn-in wind protection at the front, which is €20 more expensive but does so much! On the one hand, the piece looks like a casual hoodie. On the other hand, the fabric makes all the difference, especially the extra layer on the inside, which blocks the cool air from the front when riding fast. The top is made from a quick-drying and breathable material that is also largely recycled and therefore contributes to the sustainability account - an important factor for Monserat, which also designs its packaging to be completely plastic-free.
And so the Tech Hoodie is super comfortable, because it doesn't get sweaty like some other jackets with a wind barrier. However, if there is a cold breeze from the front, the torso remains well protected. The inside is beautifully brushed and fluffy. The hood also fits over the helmet. For me, it is a faithful companion on many tours because it is so versatile. I wouldn't rule out taking the Tech Hoodie out for a run when it's uncomfortable outside. I'm not worried about the durability of the pullover at Monserat, my impression is that the material and workmanship are durable and robust; the pullover jacket has survived the first few washes without any changes.
Monserat Tech Hoodie at a glance
- Functional fabric with quick-drying properties
- Special collar design for greater mobility
- Brushed inside
- Large hood (fits with helmet)
- Elasticated cord for greater freedom of movement
- Kangaroo pocket
- Optional sewn-in windproof front layer
- Cut: Relaxed
- Colours: available in black, grey, dark olive and with various prints
- Sizes S-XXL
- Price: 99.95 euros (RRP), with the optional windbreaker 119.95 euros
Practical test of the Monserat Trailpants 3
The Freiburg-based company also offers the new Trailpants 3 (TP3) in intermediate sizes and in 2 lengths. They also have the same clean style that all Monserat products have: small prints, clear lines and functional details. In the new TP 3, these include the ratchet fastening on the waistband and, above all, the cut itself.
I tested the Monserat Trailpants 3 in the normal version - a light version is also available at the same price, designed for warm days. However, the slightly thicker bike trousers seemed to be a better match for the Tech Hoodie.
The trail trousers from the beautiful Breisgau are relaxed to wear, have enough room at the knees to wear (medium-thickness) protectors underneath, and are comfortably tight at the bottom of the legs so that nothing scratches the frame or chain.
The fabric is stretchy, but still quite robust, which it has already been able to prove on various blackberry bushes available in the local area. The seat area has also shown little to no wear and tear so far. Monserat also relies on 88% recycled plastic for production - as shown by a small print on the left calf.
Similar to the Tech Hoodie, the Trailpants can be worn just as well at 10 degrees as at over 20 degrees, because they feel quite breathable, yet keep the wind out quite well in cool conditions. These MTB trousers match the hoodie like a glove. on a bucket, because both look great together, are super relaxed to wear and you might just want to leave them on without a bike under your bum.
The Monserat Trailpants 3 MTB trousers at a glance
- Stretchy for better comfort while pedalling
- Two lengths available (normal, 4 cm longer cut)
- Intermediate sizes available (32" = M, 33" = M-L, 34" = L)
- Made for medium to hot days (approx. 10-30° C)
- Produced entirely in Europe
- Fabric made from 88 % recycled plastic
- Fabric yarn can be recycled several times
- Colours: available in black and sand, the light version also in olive
- Price: 134.95 euros (RRP) - currently discounted and no longer available in all sizes for 124.95 euros
Marc Strucken
Editor
