10 Best Gravel Bike Clothing 2023: what to wear for gravel biking?

Gravel bike clothing needs to lie somewhere in between the road biking clothing style and the mountain biking clothing style. Basically, there is a range of choices when it comes to gravel biking clothing, starting right from more relaxed and comfortable to rough, fitted, and rugged shorts and tops, giving you the best comfort zone.

It has been noticed that many clothing brands are nowadays manufacturing the gravel bike clothing. This is because if you opt for compatible clothing accessories while keeping in mind the exact type of biking, you will definitely end up having the best experience of riding. Since there are so many choices for gravel bike rides, you cannot simply opt for the best thing easily.

Keeping that in mind, I have come up with 10 of the best gravel bike clothing that gives you the complete set to wear an ideal and better gravel biking experience. Let us start with the guide below, so you can opt for the best accessories in clothing to experience the best gravel biking ever.

Best Gravel Bike Clothing Overview

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS
Best Overall	Best Overall	Pearl Izumi Pro Air Bib Short	Material: Nylon and Polyester Best For: Gravel and Trail Rides	Check On JensonUSA
Premium Pick	Premium Pick	Specialized Rbx Bib Shorts	Material: ‎Polyamide Best For: Trail Riding	Check On JensonUSA
Editor’s Choice	Editor’s Choice	Pearl Izumi Sun Legs	Material: ‎Polyester Best For: Gravel Cycling	Check On JensonUSA
Top Pick	Top Pick	Pearl Izumi Sun Sleeves	Material: ‎Polyester Best For: Trail Bike Rides	Check On JensonUSA
Most Durable	Most Durable	Castelli Pro Mesh 2.0 Short Sleeve Base Layer	Material: Mesh Best For: Cool Weather Conditions	Check On JensonUSA
Budget Friendly	Budget Friendly	Castelli Pracaccini Wool SS Base Layer	Material: Wool Best For: Gravel and Trail Riding	Check On Amazon
For Cold Weather	For Cold Weather	Fox Racing Ranger Short Sleeve Jersey	Material: Polyester Best For: Mountain Biking	Check On Amazon
Best for Sun Protection	Best for Sun Protection	BALEAF Men’s Sleeveless Cycling Jersey	Material: Polyester Best For: Summer Rides	Check On Amazon
		Castelli Cycling Fondo 2 Jersey	Material: Polyester Best For: Gravel Bike	Check On Amazon
		POC Rouse Shirt	Material: Polyamide Best For: Mountain Biking	Check On Amazon

Top 10 Clothing for Gravel Biking Review

There is no direct answer when it comes to the gravel bike clothing because you can easily go with your full road kit of clothing or simply can wear mountain biking gear. Well, nobody will stop you. And of course, no one should because it’s totally your choice.

But if you opt for clothing that is specifically designed for gravel biking, you will end up having a unique, productive, and more enjoyable biking experience.

This is a breathable and thin fabric that actually absorbs the moisture from the surrounding and promises to keep you dry and away from moisture or sweating. With optimal comfort and ultimate relaxation throughout the riding, these Pearl Izumi Pro Air Bib Shorts are the greatest of all shorts that come with a low-light visibility feature and leg openings to enhance the comfort zone.

Furthermore, with the inner lining, the construction with the use of polyester, nylon, and elastane makes the shorts the best available shorts for protection and a comfortable biking experience. Plus, with the availability of different sizes, you can simply select the best size according to your need so you can ensure that the shorts can fit you perfectly and adequately.

Note: Make sure to wear gravel bike helmet for head protection during gravel biking

Why I Recommended Pearl Izumi Pro Air Bib Shorts

Pearl Izumi Pro Air Bib Shorts are the best-known shorts that are made specifically for the gravel riding experience. They are known for delivering the next level comfort zone and are made up of mesh stretch fabric construction material. These shorts are super comfortable shorts and are known to absorb moisture from the body, ensuring you are dry and highly comfortable throughout the biking.

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The construction with the use of four-way stretch fabric combines together to give you outstanding comfort and softness, making these shorts ultimately the best shorts for gravel biking.

Moreover, I love the presence of an articulated design that makes the shorts perfectly fitting to your body, specifically when you are in the riding position. These adjust their size according to the size of your body, making them highly comfortable and easy while biking.

Furthermore, with silicon-infused fabric, the shorts always stay in their place, regardless of how many movements you make while riding. Plus, in the presence of reflective elements, the shorts are designed to be visible in low-light conditions, making them ideal for nighttime riding.

Why I Recommended Specialized Rbx Bib Shorts

Specialized Rbx Bib Shorts are the best-known shorts and offer the best price-to-performance ratio. They are affordable and available in different sizes. With a 90 days returns policy, the company provides you with an opportunity to consider help from the manufacturers in case there is a need.

Moreover, with inbuilt reflective elements, you can easily view these Sun legs in low-light surrounding conditions. Well, I truly love the easy slip-on fit that makes it easier for the user to wear the legs quickly within no more than 5 seconds.

They are easy to wear and easy to take off, making them the best choice for gravel bikers. Additionally, since they are available in 6 different sizes, you can opt for an adequate size to get the best fitting and protection.

Why I Recommended Pearl Izumi Sun Legs

Pearl Izumi Sun Legs are the best known Sun legs that are available in 6 different sizes and are known for easy wearing and easy take off. These legs protect your legs from sun exposure to keep you away from sunburned types of conditions. This actually makes you feel like you are wearing a second skin on your natural skin but also makes sure that you are experiencing the best cooling effect on your body.

Well, these are the sleeves that are made specifically to protect you from the effects of the sun rays that otherwise can damage your skin and can create harmful effects.

Moreover, with next-level moisture management, and the presence of an optimal cooling effect on your arms, these sleeves can keep you away from any type of effects on your body due to the sun. Plus, they are also made up of reflective elements to make it easier for you to view them at night, ultimately helping you when you have to ride in dark surroundings.

Furthermore, high-quality construction and the availability of different colors gives you a choice to select your favorite color in the most compatible size and have the best experience of protecting your arms from sun exposure.

Why I Recommended Pearl Izumi Sun Sleeves

Pearl Izumi Sun Sleeves is the next best accessory when it comes to the best gravel bike clothing that protects your arms from the harmful effects of UV rays. These are sun sleeves and protect you from over exposure to the sun that otherwise can harm your skin and can adversely affect it. These sleeves are available in 3 different colors so that you can select the appropriate color accordingly.

They are known for outstanding moisture management and make you feel warm and easy, specifically in cool weather conditions. Not only the construction and function of these base layers are perfect for gravel biking, but also the graphic print actually enhances the style of the shirt and makes it look more stylish and more attractive.

Furthermore, with the presence of different sizes, you can definitely go for the adequate size that would fit you accurately. Moreover, this product is a well-known product that features a waist hem. This feature is ultimately responsible for keeping the base layer in its place even if you make lots of movements.

Why I Recommended Castelli Pro Short Sleeves

Castelli Pro Mesh 2.0 Short Sleeve Base Layer is the next best short sleeves that come in 112 grams of weight and are known for being ultra-supportive in different types of movements. These sleeves are stylish in their design and are available in different sizes, making them ideal for riders with different physiques.

The wool fabric is composed of 15% nylon, mainly to make it better in moisture management, moisture absorption, strength, and longevity. This makes the overall base layer one of the best base layers you can opt for if you are looking for something to give you comfort, protection, and support while riding a gravel bike.

Furthermore, in the presence of easy-to-pull-on clothing, you can simply pull on the shirt within more than 3 seconds. Similarly, you can also take it off whenever you want, even during riding, because of the easy-to-remove style. Further, I love the presence of machine washability which actually makes it easier for me to wash the base layer easily and quickly.

Why I Recommended Castelli Pracaccini Wool SS Base Layer

Castelli Pracaccini Wool SS Base Layer is the next best base layer that is made up of wool fabric and is composed of 15% nylon material. The overall shirt is affordable and easy to pull on,  making it reliable when it comes to durability, strength, and moisture management. Furthermore, being machine washable, you can easily put it in the machine and wash it without physically spending time and effort.

This shirt is available in 6 different sizes starting from small and reaching up to double XXL. With the availability of so many different colors, red, blue, gray, and green, this is one of the best known short sleeves jerseys reliable for gravel biking,  mainly because of its hundred percent polyester construction.

Furthermore, with the machine washability feature, you can easily wash the shirt in the machine within no more than 10 to 15 minutes. Additionally, I love how effectively it absorbs the sweat from the body and keeps you dry for as long as you want. Lastly, I truly appreciate the drop tail back panel that is truly made for gravel biking.

Why I Recommended Fox Racing Ranger Short Sleeve Jersey

Fox Racing Men’s Ranger Short Sleeve Jersey is another best jersey made up of 100% polyester material and is known to absorb more sweat. This Jersey is machine washable and is composed of recycled material,  making it not only eco-friendly but also reliable and comfortable to go with.

The composition, with the use of 100% polyester construction material, makes it one of the best shirts when it comes to sun protection. It is UV resistant and makes sure your body does not get harmed by the rays of the Sun.

Furthermore, being machine washable, you can easily and quickly wash it by simply putting it in the machine and turning the machine on, and that’s it. This means you don’t have to spend extra time and extra effort in hand washing the shirt.

Moreover, with a zipper closure type, the shirt is easy to wear and easy to remove. You can also keep it open and enjoy the windy environment if you want. Additionally, in the presence of reflective stripes around the front and back region, the shirts become highly visible and can be seen from long distances, specifically in low-light situations.

Why I Recommended BALEAF Men’s Sleeveless Cycling Jersey

BALEAF Men’s Sleeveless Cycling Jersey comes in four different colors and 5 different sizes. It is made up of 100% polyester construction material and is one of the best shirts for sun protection. Additionally, it is machine washable and offers you extra comfort throughout the riding time.

It comes in numerous different colors and is one of the most affordable choices that you can make. With machine washability features, long sleeves style, and construction with the use of 100% polyester fabric, this gravel biking jersey is considered the best jersey among all other options in this list.

Furthermore, in the presence of reflective detailing, the construction material of this jersey provides extra warmth and extra softness,  in addition to moisture absorption, making it ideal for both summer and winter seasons. Lastly, I truly appreciate the presence of 3 rear pockets that gives you a choice to put the necessary items in it while driving.

Why I Recommended Castelli Cycling Fondo 2 Jersey

Castelli Cycling Fondo 2 Jersey FZ for Road and Gravel Biking is a versatile type of jersey made with high-quality construction components and is available in numerous different colors. With the presence of elastic at the waist region and reflective panels on the sleeves, this Jersey is one of the reliable jerseys that can be seen from far and delivers the ultimate comfort you need for gravel biking.

It is high quality in construction and comes with a machine washable feature that offers you easy and quick washability. Moreover, the durable construction makes sure to deliver exceptional comfort and warmth you actually need to move freely while riding.

Furthermore, because it is available in different unique colors, this is one of my favorite shorts that I often wear whenever I go riding on my gravel bike.

Why I Recommended POC Rouse Shirt for Gravel Bike Riding

POC Rouse Shirt is one of the best shirts that are available in different colors and comes in different sizes. It is high quality in construction and is machine washable. Moreover, being flexible and easy to wear, this is one of the professionally recommended shirts that most gravel riders often prefer for their youngsters.

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How to Choose the Right Clothing for Gravel Biking?

The first thing that you have to focus on is what is actually needed for gravel biking when it comes to clothing and accessories. And keeping the importance of accessories in mind, you have to look for an adequate accessory to serve you adequately as you want.

As we know, for road biking, we look for aerodynamic efficiency, moisture absorption, quality construction, and paddling comfort. We also know mountain biking demands free body movements with protection and a high comfort zone. For mountain bike clothing, we look for baggy shirts, whereas road cycling can go well with tight jeans and shirts or shorts and t-shirts.

Gravel biking basically lies in between the two. You need to look for aerodynamic design, you need to look for casual clothing, you need to look for comfortable clothing, you need to focus on support and protection, and you also need to look for freedom of movement when looking for accessories in clothing for gravel biking.

Keeping in mind this, you have to make sure that the clothing accessories you are purchasing are not really very tight and not of the baggy style. They should be made up of non-synthetic construction material and should have odor control and sweat absorption properties.

Look for the one that is adequately fitting to you and is water resistant. Always make sure to focus on abrasion-resistant material so that the clothing can serve you equally efficiently for longer times. Do not avoid quality construction and purchase the one that is adequate according to your need.

You have the option of going with tops and jerseys, jackets and coats, shorts, baggies, and cargo bibs. So, if you are looking for the right gravel biking clothing, you need to make sure that you’re attentively focusing on the factors mentioned in this buying guide and are opting for the best tops and jerseys, coats, jackets, shorts, baggies, or cargo bibs.

FAQs about Gravel Bike Apparel

What should I wear for gravel riding?

The simple answer to this question is to go with the one that makes you feel the most comfortable and protective. I will prefer to go with loose-fitting clothes but not very loose. Go for the jerseys, jackets, shorts, and cargo bibs. Similarly, opt for the one that provides you with adequate comfort and is aerodynamically better and breathable in structure.

What bag is ideal for gravel biking?

Opt for the smaller half-frame bag that fits perfectly in your bike’s main triangle. The smaller half-frame bag can easily carry extra gear and accessories for all types of riding, including road riding, gravel riding, mountain biking, e-bike riding, and recreational ones.

What types of accessories are considered best for gravel biking?

When it comes to clothing accessories, you need to make sure that you’re purchasing aerodynamic and breathable clothes. They should not be very tight, nor should they be very loose. Look for clothing that offers you a high comfort zone, true support, and adequate protection.

Final Remarks about Gravel Bike Clothing

Hopefully, you have understood the details mentioned above and the specifications that are elaborated under the buying guide section above. All of the products that are selected above are the ones that were personally tried and tested before selecting them here. These are well-known products made specifically for gravel biking.

They are comfortable, protective, reliable, and are made up of high-quality construction materials. These clothing accessories are the ones that are known for being the best to give you a next-level gravel biking experience. So, I will recommend you read the article with all of your attention and focus to opt for the best accessories for you to enjoy outclass biking sessions.

As a reviewer, I will recommend you to go with:

• SPECIALIZED RBX BIB SHORTS come at an affordable price and are made up of the extra addition of padding inside it. These are the best-known shorts for a highly comfortable and soft feeling. It is made up of a soft mesh upper to deliver the next level of comfort zone.
• Castelli Pracaccini Wool SS Base Layer comes with short sleeves, is highly comfortable, and is available in 3 colors and two sizes. This base layer is highly durable and reliable when it comes to strength and comfort.
• Fox Racing Men’s Ranger Short Sleeve Jersey is the next best jersey made up of 100% polyester material and is known to absorb as much sweat as your body gets. The jersey is one of the easiest-to-use jerseys that is machine washable and eco-friendly due to its construction with the use of recycled materials.