Endura is known for high-performance cycling apparel. I reviewed a set of the Humvee shorts and knickers years ago that are still holding up that attest to the durable materials and construction of their products. Until recently though, I had yet to try the newer pieces from the MT500 series. Earlier this year Endura sent over the MT500 Burner shorts; suitable for DH, gravity, and enduro riding as well as all-around trail riding, the Endura MT500 series was designed with features that optimize performance for high-level riding and racing. Having high-profile racers like the Athertons providing feedback and testing the gear at top levels of the sport doesn’t hurt either.
MT500 Burner Short
The MT500 Burner short (ink blue, size small) is billed as possessing DH durability, and trail-friendly construction. Aimed at gravity riding, they’re good for anything from DH racing to enduro to park laps.
Features
- 4-way stretch fabric with durable seat panel
- Material: Elastane 20%, Nylon 80%
- PFC-Free, durable water repellent finish
- Zipped fly with ratchet waist adjustor and Velcro® waist adjusters
- Zipped hand pockets
- Slim, knee pad-friendly fit
- Size tested: small
- MSRP $119
Back in the day, DH durability meant nylon and a looser fit for mobility. These days elastane is woven in to provide some stretch while maintaining a high level of crash resistance. With a reliable buckle-style waist fastener, they have a sharp, modernized moto-inspired aesthetic. The slim fit keeps them out of the way while riding, and with the built in stretch, allows for a full range of motion. Paired with MT500 tops, I felt the look was quite dialed on the trail. And if you look fast, you feel fast right?
Although the MT500 shorts don’t include a liner, they are compatible with the Endura “Clickfast” system that attaches the liners to the outer short using small snaps.
Fit & Sizing
The cut of the shorts is described by Endura as “Slim fit with freedom of movement”, which I found accurate. On the trail I never felt restricted in anyway, and the secured pockets kept my phone and keys in place. I like these shorts and the kit so much I’m seriously thinking to add the matching MT500 pants to my collection.
I typically wear a size 31-32″ Levi jeans, and found the size small short to fit well. They are snug at the waist but comfortable. (I am close to being in the middle of a size small and medium short. 5’10”, 162 lbs) If I gain some weight over the winter, I could see them getting too snug, but there is some give/stretch in the waistband that is forgiving, provided I run the waist fasteners out)
Endura MT 500 Burner L/S Jersey – $89.99 (Ink Blue)
At $89.99, the Enduro MT 500 Burner Jersey is on the upper end of the price scale for a mountain bike jersey. Billed by Endura as the ‘ultimate trail jersey’, there are actually quite a few details and features incorporated into the garment to back their claim up and justify the cost.
Features
- Wicking main body fabric
- Contains >50% recycled fabric
- Silicone shoulder print for backpack strap grip
- Standard slim, not baggy, flap-free fit accommodates slim line padding
- Laser-cut perforation details for extra ventilation
- Zipped sleeve lift pass pocket
- 90-Day Satisfaction Guarantee
All the details in the MT500 Burner jersey add up. It’s a noticeably nicer quality polyester material, with a lighter heft that retains less water and dries more quickly. The material in the shoulder panels are durable and won’t pill when worn with a pack. In addition, the silicon in the shoulder print works well to keep backpack straps in place. There are laser cut perforations in the armpit area for ventilation, and its backed with a material to keep it from tearing or being a point of failure. Although its a bit sporty for use off the trail, I’ve used it for cooler days paddle boarding as the light weight and quick drying material is well suited for the water in addition to being warm on the bike.
Fit & Sizing
The MT500 Burner L/S Jersey is described by Endura as a loose, relaxed fit which makes it compatible with elbow and body protection. At 5’10”, 163lbs, (size 38 jacket) I’m wearing the size small.
Endura MT500 Supercraft L/S Tee LTD – $64.99 (Electric blue)
Although I’m enamored with the quality and feature set in the MT500 Burner Jersey, I also am a fan of the MT500 Supercraft L/S jersey. The Electric blue colorway is photogenic and one of my favorite colors, pairing well with most of the items in my wardrobe as well as bikes.
I’m especially a fan of the collar – the pattern is much more sophisticated than most of the riding jerseys out there, and this detail is comfortable on one’s neck.
Features
- A fully sublimated exterior is a technical lightweight fabric
- Rapid wicking, lightweight yet durable fabric
- Contains >80% recycled fabric
- Full sublimation print with fresh limited edition graphics
- Standard slim, not baggy, flap-free fit accommodates slim line padding
- 90 Day Satisfaction Guarantee
On the trail, the material Endura utilizes for the more basic jersey was impressive, as it was lighter and wicked better than most of the sublimated riding jerseys I own. (and I have a considerable collection) It’s definitely sporty — as is most of the MT500 line up — but its a highly functional piece of kit. That said, if you’re a rider looking for less of a racy look, the Endura Singletrack collection features the same performance materials.
Learn more at US.EnduraSport.com or support the site by getting shopping for Endura gear at retail partner JensonUSA.com.