Hailing from the northwest where the flannel shirt is the unofficial uniform of woods dwellers, (and every truck has a gun rack and chainsaw in the back) it is hard not to be drawn to Dakine’s Oakridge flannel shirt. Although it looks and feels like a typical red checkered flannel, it’s constructed of 100% quick dry polyester, much like the majority of our cycling jerseys. Ideal for those cold and foggy early morning DH shuttles, the Oakridge Flannel pairs well with a bike jean, (like this offering from Betabrand) a wicking sleeveless base layer, and red FiveTen Freerider Shoes. No one needs to know that while they’re sitting in wet sweaty clothes on the drive back up, your clothes are almost already dry. There are a few downsides to the fit of the shirt- like most of Dakine’s line they run large with an American fit, so choose wisely. I’m a size 38 and according to the size chart I’m a medium. I found the small to fit correctly in the shoulders and still have enough room to wear a bullet proof vest underneath, with the fit more like a boxy shirt-jacket than tailored shirt. Although our tastes run much more towards fitted clothing these days, my NW roots find me irresistibly to this piece, and most riders that wear flannels to ride probably won’t be as picky. It’s priced inline with most cycling jerseys at $75.
Buy on Amazon.com: Dakine Men’s Oakridge Flannel Shirt
