Mountain bike fashion is finally catching up to real life. The latest gear isn’t just built for dirt; it’s designed for detours. Styles transition from trail to town. Brands are blending technical fabrics with streetwear-inspired silhouettes that feel at home on the singletrack and the sidewalk.
The first thing I do after a ride is ditch the chamois, shoes and socks. I’ve never understood how some people can clink into a cafe in cleats and a full spandex regalia. If you can pull it off, more power to you, but I don’t need to show the world that I just got rad on a ride.
That’s the beauty of today’s mountain bike style. The clothes aren’t just technical, they’re wearable. Think urban designs with minimalist patterns that let riders subtly show off their style. You don’t have to announce that you just crushed a ride; you can let the dirt tan around your eyes and ankles do the talking for you.
Here’s a roundup of styles you would never know were made for the saddle.
Ripton Classic Jorts
Photos by Jennifer Weintraub
Pedal, park, repeat. Ripton’s Classic Jorts are rewriting the rules of bike gear. Their jorts (aka jean shorts) are made of lightweight performance denim. Yes, I know we’ve all been trained not to wear denim and do sports, but these aren’t your typical cut-off shorts. They’re stretchy and durable, making them easy to pedal in and even better to wear around town. It’s a little rebellious, but definitely rugged.
Pockets? Minimalist. Essentials? Stash ‘em elsewhere. But that’s part of the charm: these shorts are made for fast laps and party rides. If I’m rocking these, I’m probably just out for a quick rip. But Riptons aren’t just for riding. Take them hiking, camping or rock them around town.
Pro tip: size down. A size 25 hugs my waist just right without a chamois, stretches where it counts and doesn’t chafe. Adventure-ready denim never looked — or felt — so good.
Shredly Droptail Trail Romper
I’ve always had trust issues with rompers. Cute in theory — until nature calls. It’s too much commitment and potential for disaster. But Shredly’s Droptail Trail Romper had me rethinking everything I know about onesies.
It’s all about the thoughtful details: a crisp collar, an embroidered flower on the back pocket and an adjustable hem length secured with a button that lets your chamois peek through.
Ok, the chamois: these are the cutest and comfiest things I’ve slipped on. They’re soft, sculpting and somehow adorable and athletic at the same time. The high waist flatters, the scalloped edges stay put and you barely feel the thin padding. The bold floral pattern adds the perfect hint of flair sticking out the bottom of the shorts, like how I pair a bold sports bra under a tank.
“What’s that fancy bike outfit you’re wearing?” my husband asked me as I loaded bikes on the car.
“Oh, just a piece I’m trying out,” I casually said as I continued to gather gear for our ride.
“How do you pee?” he asked, curious.
The question for every onesie wearer. But this time, I had an answer. Shredly’s new design features a droptail: a hidden stretch cutout along your lower back that makes squatting easy, no disrobing required. When you’re standing upright, it looks like a seamless design along the back. The only catch? Don’t forget to sunscreen your lower back when you’re bent over the handlebars.
POC Motion MTB Dungaree
Bike pants leveled up my riding game: warm knees, no skin exposure and all the cozy confidence of a full-coverage fit. For someone who runs cold, it was the answer I was looking for after years of wearing tall socks on cold days. Plus, the performance fabric and articulated knees work beyond fall riding: MTB pants are my MVP for winter sports like hiking and cross-country skiing with a pair of thermals layered underneath.
But now, I found something even better: POC’s Motion MTB Dungarees. They’re the answer to the awkward in-between season before skiing. Plus, overalls blend fashion, comfort and practicality all in one piece. They have that casual cool look that’s easy to wear and adapts with the seasons.
How do you make overalls flattering for women of all shapes and sizes? POC added a smart pull-tab on the lower back so you can cinch the waist for shape. The legs are slim and tapered. A straight leg on my 5-foot-6 frame allowed me to roll up the hem for a peek of exposed ankle (which I often do on most of my jeans anyway). But taller riders will love the length: they’ll actually fit. Plus, you can adjust the straps at the shoulders.
Overalls are like dresses for dirtbags: your outfit is basically done. Toss on a jersey, like POC’s featherweight Motion Air MTB Jersey, and you’re out the door. They eliminate decision fatigue, and it actually takes less brainpower to get dressed. It’s like the trail equivalent of a LBD, except this one’s made to shred.
Curious Creatures
You know those Instagram ads that usually miss the mark? This one didn’t. Curious Creatures popped into my feed and knew exactly how to tempt a mountain biker with their take on color and design.
Their signature style — a single, large contrasting circle that slices along the seam — adds clever color-blocking flair that turns a simple shirt or shorts into a statement piece. It’s a subtle, yet recognizable design feature and a clear stamp on their brand.
This newer Montana-based company offers a limited collection in a range of saturated hues. Heading into fall, I snagged the Cottonwood Long Sleeve Tee with a tie-dye circle on the body that extends onto the sleeve. It’s a relaxed, straight fit that offers a casual streetwear vibe.
Off the bike, it’s become a layering staple from the gym to the grocery store. But that’s the point with the newest wave of mountain bike styles: pieces that don’t look like they’re reserved just for riding.
Flylow Samara Anorak
Mountain biking takes inspiration from the runway-ready rise of “athletic chic.” Enter Flylow’s Samara Anorak: a pullover jacket with a half zip and timeless sporty style.
Anoraks aren’t always as practical as a full-zip jacket, but this one has a long zipper that easily slides on over a helmet. For years, I’ve rocked Patagonia’s Houdini Jacket, but this one is just a little bit thicker without added weight or bulk. I tossed it on at the top of a climb just as the clouds and chill rolled in. It was soft, lightweight and breathable, just enough protection to keep my core warm even though my fingers were frozen.
Bold color blocking creates striking visual impact — fun, yet wearable. Subtle saturated shades pair beautifully with other neutrals. Think of muted lavender and earthy clay for a tone that’s fun without being fussy, bold but not obnoxious. It’s packable, playful and adventure-approved.
Flylow Anderson Shirt
Anyone else have plaid fatigue? Plaid is a mountain-town uniform, but sometimes I want to break out of the box. Technical party shirts with playful prints are a stylish alternative to traditional athletic gear. Plus, they have a relaxed, laid-back spirit that aligns with not taking the sport too seriously.
Adorned with whimsical forest creatures, Flylow’s Anderson Shirt is airy and adorable. Apparently, my riding buddy thought so, too. Within minutes of meeting up, we were staging a quick change in the parking lot so she could try it on before I sweated in it. Despite our very different builds — she’s four inches shorter and several sizes bigger in the bust department — the size small fit us both. She handed it back with a decisive nod: “Ordering it.”
The shirt isn’t just good looking, it’s a multi-tasker. Flylow’s shirts have a casual aesthetic with loose, breathable fabric that hits at the low hip. Bring the party and express your personal style.
