When it comes to naming quality gravity clothing companies the first name out of most peoples mouths is typically not Specialized. Specialized has been making clothing for some time now however and they’ve been improving their clothing lineup quite a bit across the entire cycling spectrum. Inside, we take a look at some of their freshest Gravity offerings.
Today we’re taking a look at some of Specialized’s Gravity offerings including the Demo Pro Long Sleeve Jersey and the Demo Pro Short. Specialized’s efforts have become more focused in the clothing arena recently and it shows in the end product.
Demo Pro Short
Sizing is available in 30 – 42 waist. This method of sizing tends to provide a better fit compared to the typical S – XL options that are often prevalent.
Adjustable waist – The Demo shorts have a nice waist adjustment system. They have velcro straps on the sides to allow the shorts to be cinch in the waist. They also emplyed a two button crotch with a velcro backing to ensure your pants stay up.
3 zippered pockets (two in the front and one in the back)
2 color options (Hyper Green – Above, Black – Below)
MSRP: $105.00 USD
Demo Pro Jersey
The Demo jersey also has a small zippered hidden pocket in the back that allows you to store something small like a credit card, some money, or a key. Additionally there is a sunglass wipe built in. The only downside of this pocket location that we’ve found is that depending on what you put in here it can feel off center given the weight distribution. It’s available in 4 color options as well and is again subtly branded.
4 color options (black above, neyon blue / hyper green at the top)
MSRP $100-150
The Specialized gravity clothing has a great feel to it. It’s quite comfortable to wear and clear Specialized knows what they’re doing when it comes to MTB clothing as of late. The fitment, materials, cuts, and colors all speak to a group that is experienced and has an eye for attention and detail. The jerseys also mix well with other shorts like the TLD Moto shorts below just as well as the branding isn’t heavy.
Sometimes Gravity focused clothing can be heavily corrugated and reinforced for abrasion but can often forgo other areas where Gravity racers and riders alike can benefit from a lighter weight design. Specialized has tried to tackle all of this and then some. The Specialized clothing fits well, stretches and conforms nicely, wicks water well, and offers great airflow.
The clothing cuts are a bit more tailor-fit than other brands we’ve found so it has a more streamlined look when you’re on the mountain. It’s baggy but not too baggy. It looks inspired for racers mostly and makes for a polished / professional look at the same time. The materials are stretchable so using pads underneath isn’t an issue. The slightly closer fit helps reduce snagging as you fly down the mountain and had much less flappyness when the speed and wind picked up.
Abrasion:
Crashing and abrasion are all a part of riding downhill and this kit has held up remarkably well considering how light it feels out of the box. There aren’t any TPR or plastic panels stitched in to reduce wear or impact if you go down. Abrasion and durability wise the clothing has held up well to many wash cycles including a few tumbles without any significant wear or holes. Your mileage may vary but we’ve had good success with it so far.
Venting
When you take into account the fabric used in this kit it should come as no surprise that it vents quite well. The airflow is quite good and can easily be worn all day without discomfort as the venting helps keep you dry.
Comfort
When you take into account the venting and fitment of the clothing these clothes are clearly quite comfortable. The light weight materials help you forget about the clothes and concentrate on the ride.
One area that cycling clothing often can neglect is the neck. Specialized however has done a nice job with the materials in this area and it helps contribute to its comfort. In general feels weightless and is not obstructive when riding which helps you focus on the riding.
Overall we’re quite pleased with the Specialized clothing options. The price isn’t the cheapest but the quality is definitely up there and have many of the features riders are after.
Specialized also offers a plethora of glove options as well that match up well with their clothing offerings that are available in a wide range of sizes.
There are a variety of styles to suit various application and tastes. I personally prefer thinner gloves like the Specialized XC lite.
The palm offers a grippy logo-ing that helps keep your hands planted on the handlebars. They’re not as durable as other options but feel quite good. If you crash often these probably aren’t the gloves for you as they don’t offer a ton of protection. For 2015, the XC lite glove looks even better as the palm area doesn’t have the sticky material. I like this because Its easier to adjust your hand on the grips.
You can see the full range of gloves at specialized.com
If you’re looking for shoes to match, the recently announced Specialized 2Foe shoes might be just what you’re looking for.
Visit your local Specialized dealer to try some of the latest Specialized clothing on or visit www.specialized.com to see the full range.