I’m always on the lookout for hip new brands, so when I heard about DHaRCO out of Austrailia, I had to reach out to get more info on their line. I first discovered the brand when they appeared in my Instagram feed worn by a mountain biker in Australia. (she is also featured on their website)
Immediately drawn to the bright feminine colors, tailored cuts and well thought out ensembles, I had to investigate further and ordered a kit so I could be one of the first US riders to wear one.
Inga gets her turn on one of the many armored turns at the Snow Summit Bike Park.
Founded in Australia, DHaRCO describes their brand as Aussie surf inspired mountain bike clothing. According to DHaRCO their focus is on style and practical design, using high performance sports materials. The line is tailored for downhill, all mountain, freeride and trail riding.
I am constantly on the look out for outfits to match to my bike, so my first pick was the deep orchard gravity shorts with matching black orchard 3/4 sleeve jersey. I adore this color scheme and it looks amazing with my Santa Cruz Bronson c and its magenta accents.
Besides the fact that this is one good looking kit, it is also incredibly comfortable and functional. The best part of the 3/4 length jersey is retaining the option to wear elbow pads with the easy accessibility of being able to take them on and off. Both of my go-to elbow pads pair nicely with this jersey, whether it be the heavier DH pads or my trail riding G-forms.
I was immediately impressed with the jersey; it is figure flattering, lightweight with a moisture wicking fabric. There are mesh side panels that help keep the temperature down, and a hidden side zip pocket is nice in the event you need to stash something.
In all images I’m wearing the size small jersey; for reference I am typically a US size 0-2 in tops. The 3/4 Jersey is also available in Blue and Aqua.
Ladies Gravity Shorts
Although these shorts are labeled as Ladies Gravity shorts, I found them to be suitable for all around riding, whether I was at the bike park, or longer trail rides. Unlike the usual DH short, they’re light weight, thanks to the four way stretch fabric. They do give up a bit in regards to durability— especially compared to the typical cordura/ nylon DH offerings out there. I’m more than happy with that, especially since so many of the women’s specific gravity shorts look like sized down men’s shorts. No one is going to confuse you for a guy (even with your full face on) when you’re rocking these shorts in their deep orchard color.
The Gravity shorts fall nicely above my knees (for reference, I am 5’9″) and are a straight fit, not too slim fitting and certainly not baggy. They sit above my belly button making them more of a mid rise and I have never had an issue with them drooping down at the waist. They also feature an adjustable waist band for an even more snug fit if desired. My knee pads, whether they are my DH-specific or trail riding pads, pair well with these shorts.
The light weight softshell fabric has plenty of spandex content, which allows for a lot of movement and makes them very comfortable. Although they don’t include a chamois, I’ve got plenty to chose from. I’ve tried several different chamois with these shorts and all of them (even the thicker versions) fit well underneath. They also feature a front zip pocket with mesh lining and a small back zip pocket.
I am wearing a size small in the shorts. For reference, I am typically a US size 26 in bottoms or a size 2-4.
Ladies 3/4 Trail Jersey in Aqua
It’s difficult for me to find well fitted feminine looking 3/4 length jerseys that I like, so I also ordered the 3/4 length jersey in aqua. It looks equally good with the orchard gravity shorts. On warmer days, the lighter color is a nice option to have as it stays cooler in direct sunlight.
Blue Freedom Tech Tee
DHaRCO was nice and included their Blue Freedom tech tee with my order to try out. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked it. It’s a great casual looking option for riding pump tracks and dirt jumps, and I often pair it with jeans.
I’ve also worn it on the trails, and love how soft, light and wick-able the fabric is. I am also wearing a size small.
Features (via DHaRCO)
- Feels like a cotton t-shirt but doesn’t sweat like one
- Freshguard – odor control
- Relaxed Trail Fit – it looks like a normal t-shirt yet is pimped for riding with a longer back and slightly longer sleeves
- Superior comfort – soft, natural feel
- Ladies open collar cut
Get the Look
- DHaRCO 3/4 Jersey Orchard
- DHaRCO Gravity Shorts Orchard
- DHaRCO Tech Tee
- Giro Feature Helmet
- Ryders Eyewear VIA Photochromic Glasses
- Troy Lee Design Youth Air Gloves
- Five Ten Freerider VXi Shoes
- IXS Sports Flow Series Knee Pads
- Santa Cruz Bicycles Bronson c
Northstar at Tahoe Bike Park
Check it out: DHaRCO
Disclosure: DHaRCO allowed me to order items at a discounted price so I could do this post, and the items were shipped directly from Australia. They can’t be found in US bike shops quite yet, but US riders can order online directly on DHaRCO’s website.
UPDATE: US riders, for a limited time you can order a DHaRCO kit from US online retailer Dirty Jane and avoid the high cost of international shipping as well as the import duties and taxes associated with overseas orders. To order up some gear click here, and tell them we sent you!
