Showers Pass introduced technical cycling apparel a few seasons ago. We’ve found them to be reliable and durable pieces that fit the bill for a wide variety of outdoor pursuits in addition to cycling. With the recent Labor Day sale, our newest contributor took advantage of the discounts to acquire some staple riding pieces. We’ll let her take it from here…
Investing in technical women’s apparel doesn’t have to suck
As a first-year mountain biker, I have been building up a collection of riding gear from scratch, so I’m interested in versatile core pieces. During one of the first rides with my partner, I donned my yoga tights, a long-sleeved cotton shirt I received from participating in a 5K run, and a borrowed windbreaker of his. (Not very demure, cutesy OR mindful) As we went on more rides, I began to think more about my needs in this area and my sense of style.
Googling “Why is bike clothing so ugly” I found a wealth of information on Reddit. I am not one for bright colors or loud patterns. Everything I have so far is either black, gray, green, or blue, so the Showers Pass pieces were in line with my aesthetic.
I invested in a few pieces of new riding apparel when we rode in late fall and early spring this year, but this July got HOT. I was on the lookout for some shorts and tees and both the Showers Pass Apex technical tee and the cross-country shorts have been solid additions to what I’m building as a capsule riding wardrobe. Not only are they comfortable when things get sweaty, but they offer a full range of motion.
I wouldn’t use the word “shred” to describe what I do on a mountain bike; my primary goal is to make it down the hill intact and without acquiring open wounds. (I’m about 50/50 at this point). But my partner has taught me enough basic skills that I know I need to be quick at adjusting my body position and get into a good squat when (slowly) bombing downhill. These shorts stretched and allowed for easy movement. I use a lot of mental energy thinking about shifting gears, body positioning, and scanning down the trail, so I was grateful to have shorts that I didn’t have to stop and pull up and legs I didn’t have to pull down. The shirt length was also great for this reason. Though I’ve gotten good and sweaty on rides, they mostly dry off by the time we’re cruising home.
Features of the Women’s Apex Merino Tech T-shirt
- Available in Alpine Blue and Black
- Sizes: Small, medium, large, x-large
- Flatlock stitching on side panels reduces chafe points
- Merino Wool blend fabric with nylon content to add durability
- Natural antimicrobial protection from odors with core-spun 87% Merino Wool 13% Nylon blend fabric
- MSRP: $85.00
Features of the Women’s Cross Country DWR 10″ Shorts
- Available in Buckthorn Brown and Black
- Sizes: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14
- Breathable Nylon-Spandex blend 4-way stretch fabrics with heavier weighted fabric on the back panel for additional durability
- Adjustable waist cinch and stretch articulation on the low back
- Pockets! 4 pocket design with hidden rear zippered pocket on rightside
- 2-snap closure with hook and bar
- Women’s 10.5″ inseam
- MSRP: $115.00
Fit & Sizing
Shopping for shorts and pants is one of my least favorite activities; it’s a special circle of hell reserved for curvy people with hips, thighs, and asses. My girlfriends and I have bemoaned the wild variation in sizes, even within the same brand. And purchasing online is always playing a guessing game- will this be so baggy it falls off? Or will it be too tight to zip? I am most consistently a size 8, so I ordered it and hoped for the best. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it fit exactly right. True to size, fitted, but not too tight, with ample stretch to move.
My biggest challenge has been finding performance bottoms that work for my hourglass figure. Typically, if they fit comfortably at my hips, they’re way too big for my waist. But these have just the right amount of stretch and with the adjustable straps on either side of the waistband, I don’t have that gap.
The tech tee is lightweight, breathable, and comfy. It offers a flattering cut, not too tight, and not too baggy. It is thin but opaque, so there’s no worry I’ll be sharing the color bra I’m wearing that day. I also like the darker blue color, which fits in with the rest of my wardrobe. (I am 5’6” and weigh none of your fucking business. I’m wearing my usual top size- medium – dress size 6).
Wrap up
I appreciate that these pieces are versatile, multi-sport pieces. One — besides cycling and other PNW staples, we also enjoy hiking, and these fit the bill for summer hikes.
Two — the only feeling better than trading bike shoes for flip-flops post-ride, is sitting down with an adult beverage in said flip-flops. We typically do this parking lot style, but this tee and top combo transitions easily to casual summer wear for a cider on a patio when the mood strikes us. The basic look meets the criteria for bang for my buck in this area. I am also happy to find clothing that I can wear biking that looks as nice as it feels. Lastly- as a bonus, J has the same outfit, a version of which was previously reviewed here. If we ever start twinning, that would be very cutesy indeed!
Shop for Showers Pass women’s apparel at Showerspass.com.