MAAP Alt_Road Jersey, Cargo Bibs and Thermal Vest

£150, £235, £170 Distinctive dirt wear with flair

AUSTRALIAN CLOTHING specialist MAAP’s Alt_Road range is closefitting, road-referenced gravel kit that comes in men’s and women’s versions.

First up, there’s the Alt_Road Jersey (£150). The main body material is a merino wool blend called Naturalmatch. Not only is this fine-woven cloth warm enough for three-season wear with its lightly fleeced lining, it’s also sustainably produced and recyclable. Side panels and rear pockets are made with durable ripstop fabric. Then there are three generous rear pockets with a light loop and zipped weatherproof security pocket.

The Cargo Bibs (£235) are the star of the range. The heavy-duty, highly compressive four-way stretch placed where it’s needed supports your muscles really well. There are durable panels on the thighs, a large open pocket on the left flank and a zipped pocket on the right. Then there are two more generous pockets on the small of the back, while broad braces and an open-weave, Y-shaped back add comfort. The 3D preformed pad adds epic levels of comfort when riding in the rough, though it may feel more heavily padded than you’re used to.

The Thermal Vest (£170) is the bestfitting gilet I’ve tried, with no gaps or gaping arm holes when I’m riding. The lightweight outer skin has a DWR coating that copes very well in light, misty rain and occasional showers. The Polartec Alpha lining, meanwhile, keeps you warm on cooler rides. You’ll find the same pockets as on the jersey and a two-way, fulllength zip on the front.

“The Thermal Vest is the best-fitting gilet I’ve tried, with no gaps or gaping arm holes when I’m riding”