Best Gravel Bike Clothing for 2025: Functional Apparel for Adventurers

Updated: 22 March 2025

The rise of gravel biking in recent years has paved the way for an entire wave of innovation—not just in the bikes themselves but in the way riders dress for the adventure.

Gone are the days when cyclists would simply repurpose their road or mountain biking gear for gravel riding. Today, the gravel biking community has its own distinct identity, and with it, a new category of apparel that reflects the essence of this discipline—a thoughtful blend of performance, comfort, and style tailored to the ever-changing nature of gravel trails.

But how should one dress for gravel biking?

The answer is both simple and nuanced.

At its core, gravel biking clothing should offer comfort and flexibility for long days in the saddle. However, it also needs to account for shifting weather conditions, unpredictable terrain, and, importantly, a rider’s desire to express their individuality. That’s what makes gravel so special—it’s both performance-oriented and expressive, wild yet intentional.

Brands have taken note. In recent years, many have launched entire lines of gravel-specific cycling apparel designed to meet both broad and niche demands. From minimalist kits built for efficiency to casual, adventure-ready gear designed for rugged bikepacking, the choices are expanding rapidly.

Women’s gravel clothing, in particular, has seen an impressive surge in innovation and attention. With more women entering the gravel space, manufacturers are stepping up—offering cycling shorts, jerseys, and jackets that are not only technical and performance-driven but also flattering and functional. These collections reflect an important shift toward inclusive design, without compromising on durability or performance.

One fun and somewhat quirky trend that continues to show up in gravel fashion? The bandana.

At first glance, it might just look like a retro style statement—but for many riders, it’s an essential piece of kit. Bandanas serve multiple purposes: they wick sweat from your face and neck, shield your skin from sunburn, and when soaked in water, offer a simple cooling solution on hot, exposed rides. In dry and dusty conditions, they can also double as a makeshift dust mask. It’s this kind of low-tech, multi-functional gear that thrives in the gravel world.

Let’s not forget footwear—another cornerstone of the gravel riding experience.

So, do you need dedicated cycling shoes for gravel biking?

Technically, no. But the benefits are hard to ignore. While you can ride in regular athletic shoes, gravel-specific cycling shoes offer a stronger, more connected feel with the bike. They improve pedaling efficiency, control, and are often designed with hike-a-bike sections in mind—featuring durable rubber outsoles with ample grip and flex. The best gravel shoes strike a balance between stiffness for power transfer and comfort for off-bike moments. (I dive deeper into gravel shoes in a separate article—stay tuned.)

As gravel biking continues to define itself as a category, the gear associated with it is evolving at the same rapid pace. Clothing is no longer an afterthought—it’s part of the experience. It keeps you dry in a sudden downpour, cool in exposed heat, and comfortable through rough terrain. But just as importantly, it lets you feel like yourself out there—adventurous, prepared, and free.

So whether you’re deep into the world of gravel or just getting started, wearing the right apparel can make all the difference. The right kit enhances every mile, helping you feel your best on the bike and off the beaten path.

Zorali Air-Grid Fleece – The Ultimate Mid-Layer for Adventure

When you’re constantly on the move, from cold morning rides to misty mountain hikes, having the right layering system is everything. And lately, I’ve been living in the Zorali Air-Grid Fleece – a lightweight yet super warm mid-layer that’s built for both the outdoors and everyday wear.

(Take a closer look here in this video below + my entire Go Anywhere Bikepacking Setup!)

My personal take?

“A super-lightweight yet incredibly warm fleece. Perfect for relaxing around the campfire after a big day of adventuring! I love it so much I’ve been wearing it almost every day since I got it. I think it’s about time I give it a wash 🙂 Been on the lookout for a vegan alternative to wool, and this fleece ticks all the boxes!”

Learn more about the Zorali Air-Grid Fleece

Zorali Recycled Venture Pants

The Zorali Recycled Venture Pants are a top pick for gravel rides, bikepacking, and off-the-bike adventure. Made from 100% recycled nylon, they’re lightweight, windproof, water-repellent, and incredibly durable – everything you want in a pair of versatile riding pants.

With eight functional pockets, an elastic waist with built-in belt, and ankle cinches, these pants are built for movement and utility. Whether you’re pedaling, hiking, or setting up camp, they’re designed to flex and breathe with you.

Minimalist in appearance, but fully functional for the trail – these pants are as good as it gets for comfort-driven performance.

Learn more about the Zorali Venture Pants

Zorali Cosy Camp Fleece

A mid-weight fleece that lives up to its name, the Zorali Cosy Camp Fleece is a go-to layer for cool morning starts, breezy descents, and relaxing at camp. Crafted from 100% recycled polyester fleece, it’s designed for warmth without the bulk—making it ideal for layering under a shell or over a base layer on bikepacking trips.

The relaxed fit and double-layered construction trap warmth, while the elastic cuffs and zip-up collar keep out the chill. It strikes that perfect balance between trail-ready function and campsite comfort.

Soft, durable, and sustainably made – this fleece is a staple in my cold-weather bikepacking kit.

Learn more about the Zorali Cosy Camp Fleece

Women’s Gravel Bike Collection

Wild Rye – Empowering Women Through Technical Trail Style

When it comes to gravel-specific women’s cycling apparel, Wild Rye leads the charge with clothing that blends technical performance with bold, expressive style. Founded in 2016, the brand set out to create gear that not only performs on the trail but also empowers women to feel confident and comfortable outdoors.

Every piece is designed and rigorously tested in the mountains of Sun Valley, Idaho, combining trail-tough functionality with a relaxed, flattering fit. Whether you’re riding dusty backroads or climbing alpine fire trails, Wild Rye’s gear holds up—and looks damn good doing it.

Their 2025 Gravel Collection includes standout pieces like the:

• Billie Stash Bib – with a flattering fit, drop-seat functionality, and roomy pockets
• Gem Distance Jersey – lightweight, breathable, and built for all-day gravel missions
• Alyssa & Eleanor Chammies – padded bike shorts designed with real women’s needs in mind
• Lil’ Party Shirt & Mackay Crop Tee – for that post-ride hangout without needing to change
• Alden Anorak Windbreaker – packs small, shields you from the elements, and oozes style
• Plus accessories like the Galena Gel Gloves, Wild Rye Socks, and graphic tees & bandanas for trail-to-town transitions

What sets Wild Rye apart is their unwavering commitment to fit, performance, and community. They don’t just make gear—they create a space where women feel seen, supported, and inspired to explore more.

Explore the Wild Rye Gravel Collection

7mesh Airmap Collection

The crisp air reminds us of the approaching need to layer up during our cycling adventures. The cycling world is abuzz as 7mesh rolls out its Airmap collection for Fall 2023, a testament to forward-thinking apparel.

Designed to accommodate various cycling disciplines, from MTB to road to gravel, this line promises more than just protection from the elements.

An impending ban on PFAS chemicals in water-resistant attire means that the Airmap line stands as a testament to 7mesh’s commitment to a safer environment, offering the ultimate riding experience without these chemicals.

At the heart of the Airmap collection lies a blend of three meticulously chosen breathable fabrics, free from PFAS.

These fabrics work in synergy, optimizing airflow, and managing heat, and water vapor, all while offering protection against rain and wind.

The goal? Minimize the frequent layer adjustments during a ride. With strategically placed panels that focus on blocking, exchanging, and managing air, these garments are your allies against varying weather conditions.

While all three fabrics – single, double, and triple-layered – serve distinct functions, they share an outer appearance.

This ensures a uniform look despite the multiple fabrics at play. Environmental commitment doesn’t stop at PFAS-free materials.

The fabrics also boast Bluesign and Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certifications, with the raw materials being recycled polyester and polyurethane.

Catering to all riders, the collection offers both men’s and women’s styles, ranging from sizes XS to XXL.

Cache Jacket ($300): This hoodless piece uses 3-layer fabric for the main body, with 2-layer fabric on the side panels and sleeves. It offers storage pockets, an elastic drawcord for warmth, and reflective logos for visibility. Available in a range of stylish colors for both men and women.

Cache Anorak ($330): A pullover with a unique ½ zip design, it features 3-layer protection for the body and 2-layer fabric on specific panels. Noteworthy is 7mesh’s Stash System straps allowing the Anorak to be packed and attached to your frame. Its kangaroo pocket adds utility with its zippered access.

Grit Pant ($300): Built for durability, the Grit Pant mainly employs 3-layer fabric with 2-layer panels for added ventilation. Features like zippered hand pockets, adjustable waist, and elastic cuffs make it a standout choice for serious riders.

S2S Jersey LS ($300) & S2S Vest ($200): These garments utilize all three Airmap fabrics in their design. Notable features include a two-way front zipper, the Anything pockets resistant to sagging, and reflective details for enhanced visibility.

For those keen to explore the full breadth of what the Airmap collection offers, head over to 7mesh’s official site.

Rab Cinder Range

Spanning over 30 distinct styles for both men and women, the Cinder collection is a mosaic of colors and features.

From waterproof gear and jerseys to casual wear and cargo bibs, Rab’s debut showcases its commitment to versatility and performance in cycling apparel.

Notable among the Cinder range is a revamped version of their acclaimed Phantom Jacket. This Cinder edition retains its lightweight charm but now boasts cycling-specific features like a silicone grip drop hem and ride-refined sleeves.

Plus, for those on the move, it comes with a handy frame attachable stuff sack. Rab’s Kinetic jacket, pants, and shorts haven’t been left out; they’ve been reimagined with a cyclist’s movement in mind, ensuring comfort during those long rides.

A quick perusal of the Cinder collection hints at Rab’s focus on performance. The tailored fit of many items suggests they’re primed for high-octane rides, perhaps sacrificing a bit of the laid-back vibe that long-haul bikepackers lean towards, especially during their leisurely campside or town resupply breaks.

That said, while some pieces might resonate more with ultra-racers or day riders, several items stand out as potential favorites for varied cycling adventures, blending function and form.

Rapha Explore Collection

Rapha’s motto for its Explore Collection evokes a spirit of adventure: “Ride a little, then ride some more. Go until you’re lost until life looks less familiar.” After spending a month with the collection, this sentiment feels deeply resonant.

The Explore Collection isn’t just another set of cycling gear; it’s a comprehensive suite designed for the gravel aficionado.

From the primary six items – cargo bibs, shorts, pants, a technical T-shirt, a down jacket, and a GORE-TEX shell – to the other accompanying pieces, each product embodies durability and innovation.

GORE-TEX Lightweight Jacket ($375): This sleek, three-layered waterproof jacket combines durability with elegance, ensuring protection even during intensive rides. Its lightness is a notable feature, yet there are concerns about its waterproof capabilities in the long run.

Explore Pant ($180): A manifestation of minimalist design, these pants are both functional and chic. Designed primarily for bikepacking adventures, they encompass everything from stretchy comfort to practical pocket placements.

Technical T-Shirt ($90): Though the price might be on the higher side, its performance in hot and humid conditions is undeniably impressive. A combination of different fabrics ensures a snug fit without compromising durability.

Explore Shorts ($150): A favorite among many, these shorts define both versatility and comfort. The lightweight fabric combined with a DWR coating ensures easy movement and protection against light rain, making them an asset during warmer rides.

Cargo Bib Shorts ($300): A true game-changer in design. With ample storage capabilities thanks to the large mesh pockets, these bib shorts redefine convenience. The design ensures they remain breathable and comfortable even during prolonged rides.

Lightweight Down Jacket ($305): Perfect for the chilly escapades, this down jacket, made from 750 FP goose down, stands out for its lightness and warmth. Though ideal for cold days, one might need extra layering for colder nights.

MAAP Alt_Road Collection

An older gravel-specific collection that has been around for a little while.

MAAP is an Australian trailblazer in cycling attire, and one can’t help but appreciate the brand’s commitment to merging eco-friendliness with endurance.

When you’re seeking apparel that stands the test of long gravel journeys, Alt_Road has you covered. The core idea is clear: prepare for those off-the-beaten-path adventures, whether they’re filled with dust or drenched in mud.

A central feature of the Alt_Road series is the novel Naturalmatch wool. This fabric, a collaboration with Italian experts Miti Spa, masterfully combines traditional merino wool with sustainable synthetic fibers.

The result? A fabric that feels gentle on the skin, balances body temperature like merino wool and offers the flexibility of synthetic materials.

Bib shorts, a quintessential gravel gear, have been given special attention.

With gravel riders needing extra pockets for essentials, MAAP’s Alt_Road bib shorts not only provide a supremely comfortable 3D-thermo-moulded chamois for rough terrains but also clever storage solutions.

The collection isn’t short on choices for varying weather conditions. For sun-soaked rides, Alt_Road tees, made from 50% recycled PET fibers, promise both sustainability and odor resistance, topped off with SPF 50 protection. Cooler conditions? Their windproof thermal jacket has got you covered.

Aesthetically, while MAAP often goes bold, the Alt_Road palette is inspired by nature, offering earthy shades that effortlessly blend in, even when you’re layered in trail dust.

And for those who crave a comprehensive gravel ensemble, the collection also rolls out vests, long-sleeve tees, gloves, merino socks, and, in collaboration with Apidura, a handy frame pack.

Udog Distanza Gravel Shoes

We have a dedicated section on this site all about gravel bike shoes! But a notable mention is the all-new gravel shoes by Udog.

Its unique design draws inspiration from rugged landscapes, sporting an outsole that extends over the toes and wraps around the heel.

This isn’t just for aesthetics; it offers enhanced durability, making it a reliable companion for both challenging mountain trails and everyday urban rides.

What sets DISTANZA apart is its pioneering approach to foot comfort.

With the Tension Wrap System (TWS), the shoe embraces the metatarsal region, ensuring a snug fit and efficient power transfer to the pedal.

This system ensures that every pedal stroke feels comfortable and controlled.

Now, if you’re someone who values both functionality and comfort, DISTANZA’s knit technology is worth noting.

This engineered material not only provides a seamless fit but also adapts to the unique contours of each foot.

Whether you’re cycling through rain or shine, this shoe promises breathability without compromising on waterproof qualities.

Lastly, on the technical front, the shoe’s outsole varies depending on the variant. While the ASH GREY model employs a Nylon carbon-reinforced outsole, the CINDER BLACK opts for a Full Carbon composite.

And if weight matters to you, the Carbon model is slightly lighter, tipping the scales at 315 grams for size 42, compared to the 330 grams of its counterpart.

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