OBERSON BUYING GUIDE
How to Dress for Gravel Cycling
From bib shorts to jerseys, shoes, and outer layers, the right clothing can make your gravel rides more enjoyable. Here's what to wear based on your riding style and conditions.
IN BRIEF
You don't need specific gravel cycling clothing to enjoy the discipline. Many cyclists comfortably use the road, mountain biking, or multi-sport apparel they already own. This guide covers bib shorts, tops, layers, shoes, helmets, and gravel-specific clothing to help you ride comfortably, efficiently, and in all conditions.
Do you need specific gravel bike apparel?
No. Most gravel riders can enjoy gravel cycling in road, mountain, or multi-sport apparel they already own.
The best choice depends as much on the terrain as on your goals. Cyclists who prioritize speed and efficiency and mostly ride on asphalt and well-maintained forest roads often prefer road cycling-inspired apparel. Its closer fit reduces wind flap and remains comfortable over long distances.
Cyclists who venture onto rougher roads, doubletrack, or singletrack generally ride at slower speeds and seek more comfort, durability, and freedom of movement. In this context, mountain biking apparel can be an excellent choice thanks to its more relaxed fit, extra pockets, and better abrasion resistance.
Apparel designed for gravel riding falls somewhere in between. Many models combine the streamlined fit of road apparel with practical features such as cargo pockets, more relaxed fits, and odor-resistant fabrics designed for long rides and bikepacking adventures.
| If you prioritize… | Consider… | |
|---|---|---|
| Speed and efficiency on faster surfaces | Road cycling clothing | |
| A balance between performance and practicality | Gravel bike clothing | |
| Comfort and freedom of movement on rougher terrain | Mountain biking apparel | |
| Simplicity, minimalism or a limited budget | Cycling or multi-sport apparel you already own |
What cycling shorts should I wear for gravel biking?
For most cyclists, bib shorts or shorts with a chamois are the best choice for gravel riding. Long hours in the saddle and constant vibrations from gravel roads can cause significant discomfort, and a quality chamois can make all the difference.
Bib shorts and shorts
Bib shorts, like traditional shorts, are very suitable for gravel cycling. Bib models generally stay in place better and eliminate pressure at the waist, making them a popular choice for long rides. Traditional shorts are often easier to put on and take off and can be more practical during breaks.
Cargo bib shorts
Cargo bib shorts have become particularly popular with gravel enthusiasts. In addition to the chamois, they feature pockets on the thighs or lower back to easily carry snacks, a phone, gloves, or other small essentials. These pockets can reduce your reliance on jersey pockets or bike bags.
Baggy shorts with liner shorts
Some gravel enthusiasts prefer the relaxed style and freedom of movement of baggy shorts. These are often worn with a padded liner short. While baggy shorts are generally less aerodynamic than cycling shorts, they can be very comfortable for riders who primarily ride on rougher surfaces.
| If you prioritize… | Consider… | |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum comfort on long rides | A bib short | |
| Simplicity and convenience | A thigh-length cycling short | |
| Additional storage space | Cargo bib shorts | |
| Casual style and more rugged terrain | A loose-fitting short with a liner short |
What to wear on top?
There's no single answer when it comes to gravel bike tops. The best choice depends on the terrain, your pace, the weather conditions, and your personal style.
Road cycling jerseys
Road jerseys are a popular choice among cyclists who prioritize speed and efficiency. Their close-fitting cut reduces wind flap, and their rear pockets offer convenient storage for snacks, tools, and extra layers. They are particularly well-suited for rides that combine asphalt and relatively smooth forest trails.
Gravel Bike Jerseys & Tops
Many brands now offer gravel-specific jerseys and tops that are a hybrid of road and mountain bike clothing. These garments often feature a slightly more relaxed fit as well as technical fabrics and practical storage solutions. Some gravel jerseys and jackets also feature a hood, which is useful when the weather is unpredictable. Some models also use odor-resistant materials, such as merino wool blends, making them an interesting option for long adventures and bike-packing.
Mountain Bike Jerseys & Shirts
Mountain biking jerseys and shirts have a more casual style and offer greater freedom of movement. They are a good choice for cyclists who ride on rougher surfaces at slower speeds. However, their looser fit may seem less streamlined on fast rides.
| If you prefer… | Consider... | |
|---|---|---|
| Speed and efficiency | A road cycling jersey | |
| A balance between comfort and performance | A gravel jersey or top | |
| Relaxed style and freedom of movement | A mountain biking jersey or shirt | |
| Your budget and practicality | The cycling clothing you already own |
Ultimately, wear what you like. Many gravel riders combine elements from road cycling, mountain biking, and gravel cycling rather than sticking to one category.
How to dress according to the weather?
Hot Weather
In hot weather, opt for light, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics. A lightweight jersey or a technical top with a front zipper, combined with cycling shorts or bib shorts, is often sufficient.
Cool Weather
In spring, autumn, or on cool mornings, start with a light base layer and add a jersey or technical top. Arm warmers, leg warmers, and a vest or light jacket will allow you to adapt to temperature changes without taking up much space in a bag or pocket.
Wind and Rain
A light, compact, waterproof, and windproof jacket is one of the most useful pieces of clothing for gravel biking. It protects you during long descents, showers, and unexpected drops in temperature.
Long Rides and Bikepacking
Comfort becomes increasingly important as the duration of the ride increases. Odour-resistant fabrics, such as merino wool blends, remain comfortable for several days and reduce the need for washing. Extra storage, whether in your clothing or on your bike, can also make long adventures more enjoyable.
| Terms and conditions | Consider… | |
|---|---|---|
| Hot weather | Light and breathable clothing | |
| Cool temperatures | A base layer, arm warmers or a vest | |
| Windy conditions | A packable windbreaker | |
| Damp conditions | A light waterproof or water-resistant coat | |
| Long rides or bikepacking | Odor-resistant fabrics and more storage |
What shoes and helmet should I wear for gravel biking?
Most gravel cyclists wear either gravel shoes or mountain bike shoes. Both use recessed cleats that make walking easier compared to road shoes. This is a significant advantage because, as those who frequent isolated gravel roads know, it is not uncommon to have to walk due to a damaged culvert, erosion, fallen trees, or other obstacles.
Gravel shoes are generally a lighter and slightly less robust version of mountain bike shoes. They offer durable uppers and soles flexible enough to allow walking.
For helmets, road models remain a common choice for gravel riding. They are lightweight, well-ventilated, and comfortable. However, some cyclists prefer helmets that borrow features from mountain biking, such as a more robust design, better head coverage, or a removable visor.
| If you prefer… | Consider... | |
|---|---|---|
| Pedalling efficiency | Gravel shoes | |
| Adhesion and durability | Mountain bike shoes | |
| Lightness | A road bike helmet | |
| Better coverage or a visor | A helmet inspired by road or mountain biking |
FAQ - What to wear for gravel cycling?
Do you need gravel-specific clothing?
No. You can easily ride gravel in road, mountain bike, or multisport apparel depending on your riding style and preferences.
Gravel apparel can offer certain advantages, such as cargo pockets, more relaxed fits, hoods, and odor-resistant fabrics, but it is not essential. Many cyclists mix and match apparel from different disciplines.
Can you wear mountain biking clothes for gravel riding?
Yes. Mountain biking apparel is an excellent choice for gravel riding, especially on rough roads, doubletrack, or routes that include singletrack. Compared to road cycling apparel, it generally offers a looser fit, greater freedom of movement, and better abrasion resistance. Its main drawback is that it's less aerodynamic at high speeds. Many gravel riders exclusively wear mountain biking apparel or combine it with road or gravel-specific clothing.
Can you wear road cycling clothes for gravel riding?
Yes. Many gravel riders wear road cycling clothing, especially on routes that combine asphalt and well-maintained forest roads. Road cycling clothing offers a snug, aerodynamic fit that remains comfortable and efficient. The rear pockets on jerseys also make it easy to carry snacks, tools, and extra layers. You can wear only road cycling clothing or combine it with mountain bike or gravel clothing.
Are cargo bib shorts worth it for gravel riding?
Often, yes. Cargo bib shorts add pockets on the thighs or lower back, making it easier to carry snacks, a phone, gloves, and other small essentials. They are particularly popular among gravel riders as they allow for carrying more gear on long rides in remote areas.
Do you need a chamois for gravel riding?
For most cyclists, yes. A chamois reduces pressure and friction, which helps avoid discomfort, especially on long rides. This is particularly true on gravel roads, where constant vibrations can quickly become unpleasant. If you plan to ride regularly, a pair of cycling shorts or liner shorts with a chamois is a wise investment.
Can you wear a mountain bike helmet for gravel riding?
Yes. Many gravel riders wear a mountain bike helmet, especially on rougher routes that include doubletrack or flowy singletrack.
Compared to road helmets, mountain bike helmets often provide more coverage at the back of the head and typically include a visor. This helps protect the eyes from sun, light rain, and low-hanging branches.
That said, road helmets remain very popular in gravel riding as they are lightweight, well-ventilated, and comfortable on long rides.
Cycling Apparel at Oberson
At Oberson, you'll find a wide selection of cycling apparel for all riding styles, including brands like Assos, Castelli, 7mesh, Craft, Rab, and Parmi Lifewear. Shop online or visit us in-store in Laval or Brossard. Our experts are here to help you choose the best clothing for your style and the conditions you ride in.
