Microbytes: Kitsbow jersey and shorts

Kitsbow is a clothing brand out of California, billed as “Impeccable mountain bike wear for obsessives.” I wouldn’t consider myself obsessive, but damn, do I love me some nicely made clothes. Maybe it was my high school job at a men’s clothing store, or too much Project Runway. Whatever.

Let’s get this out of the way up front: Kitsbow products are going to cost you real money. The cost of high quality materials and first-world wages for the workers in British Columbia who sew this stuff add up pretty quickly.

Long Sleeve All Mountain Jersey $265

The jersey is made from Cordura/wool blend, with the wool facing inwards, the Cordura providing a protective durable outer. The pockets are on the side, rather than back to ease access while wearing a bag, and include a key keeper inside a smaller zipper pocket. The chest pocket has a slot to keep eyewear secure when not in use, and a tethered microfiber wipe has its own zippered compartment. The cut is slim and fitted, with side stretch panels, shoulder reinforcements, and minimal reflective trim around the stand up collar.

The wool blend material looks and feels super durable, and can handle the dryer, a huge plus for me, as I have a closet full of shrunken wool jerseys I’m saving for when my kids get older.

Soft Shell A/M Shorts $270

The shorts are super basic, a nice change from the “more pockets are better” school of shorts design. The Schoeller-dryskin fabric is heavy and durable feeling, great for cool weather riding, although a knicker length or full pants would be pretty welcome this time of year. Two slim pockets sit high on the legs, so things inside don’t interfere with pedaling, and the mesh lining works as a vent when the pockets are left open.

I was a first put off with the lack of waist adjustment, but with nine sizes available, most people should be happy with the fit. Rather than hanging off the hip bones, these sit high and snug. A tall, quilted waist band, crotch gusset, and taped and finished promise comfort and durability.

I know if Santa finishes his shopping with some cash left over, he’d be looking very hard at kitsbow.com. Clothes like this are investment in future rides, and should be expected to last for years of adventure and heavy use.