What to Wear for Gravel Biking?

Reuse Your Cycling and Multisport Clothing

You can wear any style of cycling clothing, whatever type of bike you ride. Apparel trends are often based on the cycling discipline. Mountain bikers sport a looser, more relaxed fit, and roadies usually wear more-performance-oriented, form-fitting, aerodynamic attire. Whichever style makes up your wardrobe, you can also adopt it for gravel biking. The main thing is that your clothes are breathable so you’re comfortable during exertion. Also, don’t underestimate your multisport apparel, which offers outstanding breathability.  

What’s the style for gravel biking?

Gravel biking’s style is that there isn’t really a particular style. Even though this type of bicycle is similar to a road bike, the clothing is a bit more eclectic. Gravel riders draw on the styles of both road and mountain biking. It all depends on the type of ride you’re going on. 

Many brands now offer gravel-specific fits for jerseys and shorts. The jerseys are slightly looser, and the shorts can be somewhat baggy but also shorter than those worn for mountain biking. And don’t overlook the popular shirts that you can wear for both cycling and the post-ride tailgate. 

For everything you need to know about gravel biking, read our article “How to Choose a Gravel Bike?”

Road Bike-Inspired Apparel

If your goal is speed and performance, road bike clothing is ideal. The slim fit is more aerodynamic, and the stretchy fabric moves with you.  

Mountain Bike-Inspired Apparel

Baggier, casual mountain bike clothes are perfect for exploration. Since speed isn’t the primary focus, their comfortable fit is perfect for spending a day off the beaten path.  

A Combination of the Two Styles

The two styles can be combined, either by wearing bike shorts or bib shorts with a roomier cycling jersey or even a shirt.  

Bike Shorts and Bib Shorts

Bike shorts are worth the investment if you don’t already own a pair with a high-performance chamois. Because gravel riders often pedal long distances on bumpy roads and trails, quality bike shorts with excellent support are a must to dampen all those vibrations.

Some gravel-oriented models have pockets on the sides to slip in a few snacks or your cell. Cargo pockets are the latest trend. 

For early or late season rides, full-length, lightly insulated cycling tights with a chamois are a great option. However, mountain bike pants worn over a ski base layer can work quite well. Again, it’s all about comfort, preference, your budget and the goal of the ride. 

To learn all about the types of bike shorts and chamois, check out our article “How to Choose the Best Bike Shorts.”

Bike Jerseys

Gravel bike jerseys can be a road bike jersey with a slim, very aerodynamic fit with a full zipper. They have the advantage of pockets on the back that allow you to slip in snacks.  

For a more casual style, a short-sleeved mountain bike jersey or even a roomier tank top will do the trick. Some brands like Peppermint also offer loose, short women’s jerseys that create a cool look. 

If your gravel bike clothing doesn’t have pockets for snacks, adding a frame bag or saddle bag is a great option that lets you rack up the kilometres without running out of energy.  

If you’d like to see all the options for bags and panniers for gravel bikes, consult our article “How to Choose the Right Cycling Backpacks and Bags?”

Bike Shirts

They have a rather casual, slightly funkier style that both men and women appreciate. Bike shirts are made with fabric that’s breathable and, in some cases, water-repellent. They have a unique style, but their looser fit is a bit bulky for those who seek speed and aerodynamics.  

Cycling Jackets and Windbreakers

You never know what Mother Nature has in store, but we cyclists can easily adapt to the conditions and brave the elements. A cycling jacket or windbreaker provides outstanding protection against the wind, cold and moisture.  

The essential features? The garment should be windproof, waterproof or water-repellent, breathable, and highly compressible so that you can easily carry it with you. 

Gravel Bike Shoes

Gravel bike shoes feature a sole with a rubber coating and a tread for maximum traction when you’re not on the saddle. In addition, like mountain bike shoes, this type of shoe is compatible with SPD cleats.

Gravel Bike Helmets

Road bike helmets are perfect for protecting your head. They’re well ventilated, lightweight and have an aerodynamic shape. That said, the Oakley Aro3 All Road helmet sports a hybrid road/mountain bike look thanks to its removable magnetic visor.

To choose the right bike helmet, see our article “How to Choose a Bike Helmet.”

In short, gravel bike clothing takes something from the styles of both mountain and road biking. As with all sports, the key is to feel good in your clothes to make the most of every day spent exploring.