Review: 7mesh's Cache Anorak & Grit Pants

Feb 9, 2024
by Dario DiGiulio  
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As a committed fan of the simpler sides of ride apparel - cotton t-shirts, a comfortable hoodie, whatever shorts are around - I've been slow to adopt the more technical options on the market. Over time though, I've learned the value of membranes, engineered textiles, and modern plastics, and can now appreciate a good piece of kit when it comes my way. At the vanguard of the push to make mountain bike apparel more technical and specialized is 7mesh, the Canadian firm bridging the gap between us dirtbags and the rest of the outdoors industry.

Their new Airmap collection exemplifies that push well, with custom-milled fabrics and highly specialized fit and function, all meant to make your rides in foul weather a little less nasty. There are many items in that new collection, but I'm reviewing the Cache anorak and Grit pant - two items aimed squarely at the mountain bike market.



Cache Anorak

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Assume the position.
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The Cache Anorak is a pleasantly simple item, with a couple useful pockets, some basic adjustment, and clever on-bike storage capabilities. The complexity lies in the fabric, which 7mesh touts as the "ideal balance between rain and wind protection" thanks to some carefully placed 1, 2, and 3-layer laminates in different areas of the items.

It features a 1/2 length zipper, sizable hood, and roomier fit meant to layer well. I tested a size Large, in keeping with most tops I wear.
Cache Anorak Details

• Face: 83% recycled polyester, 17% spandex
• Membrane & Backer: 100% polyurethane.
• 2 zip pockets
• 3 colors, 6 sizes
• Self-stow pouch with bike attachment straps
• MSRP: $330 USD
7mesh.com

I really dig the boxier fit of the jacket, as it makes for comfortable layering, good airflow, and less of the road-warrior skinsuit look. You could size down to keep things a little more svelte, but for me the Large was perfect. Another upside to the fit of the piece is the arm length; I have very long arms and it's rare that a jacket actually reaches my wrists when on the bike. The Cache did so with no issue, which helps keep things comfortable if the weather is really coming down.

Speaking of weather, the waterproofing on the Airmap fabric is impressive, though not infallible. Like any breathable membrane, it wets out eventually, but in my experience it took a long session in heavy rain to get things to that point.

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Pocket one.
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Pocket two.
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Waist adjustment.
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Hood adjustment.

That tradeoff in all-out waterproofing is in service of breathability, which is a strength on the Airmap. I'd consider this a fairly heavy jacket relative to your average windbreaker, but it doesn't feel like a trashbag unless you're really putting out a hard effort. I run pretty warm, but can pedal with the Cache in temps above freezing, so long as I'm not pinned. Eventually you'll want to doff it, and luckily there's built in convenient storage for when you do so. 7mesh's integrated bungee clip things are one of the smartest little details I've seen on bike-specific apparel, as they remove the need for an accessory strap, stash spot, or pack to carry your extra layer in.

Comparisons
There a seemingly infinite takes on the "perfect" bike jacket out there, but realistically all of them are a compromise of some sort. I'll be doing a big roundup of all the options I've tried recently, but for now here are some direct comparisons that I see as relevant to the Cache.

The closest proxy in my closet is the Trail Magic jacket from Ornot, which uses Polartech's NeoShell fabric to do the water resisting and the heat dumping. The version I tested appears to be unavailable right now, but the hoodless Magic Shell is still in their catalog. Good news, because to me the performance of the Ornot bests the 7mesh when it comes to breathability and long-term comfort. I do prefer the fit of the Cache jacket, as the boxier, looser cut works better for me on a mountain bike, but one could just size up to achieve the same goal. Rain resistance is a close call, and might err towards the 7mesh, though both options wet out over a long ride in gross conditions. All told, the Ornot is $100 cheaper and made in California, so to me the choice is pretty easy.

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Ornot Trail Magic.
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The other jacket that comes to mind is the Patagonia Dirt Roamer, which works similarly to the 7mesh, but falls on the lighter end of the spectrum. It won't keep you quite as warm, nor will it resist a downpour quite as well, but it is easier to wear for long stretches of pedaling. The DWR used by Patagonia isn't free of the chemicals 7mesh has avoided in their materials, but the former's manufacturing is Fair Trade certified - all things to consider.



Grit Pant

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Rain pants are a simple item, but surprisingly hard to get right. Often, I find they're overly-complicated, too tight, and so uncomfortable you'd never actually opt to wear them unless you were desperate.

7mesh seems to have nailed that balance with the Grit pants, as they've been the only rain pants I've reached for this winter. I've been wearing a size Medium, and the fit has been perfect for my 31-32" waist.
Grit Pant Details

• Face: 88% recycled nylon, 12% elastane
• Membrane: 100% polyurethane
• Backer: 100% recycled polyester
• 2 zip pockets
• 2 colors, 6 sizes
• MSRP: $300 USD
7mesh.com

The Grit pants are satisfyingly simple, with two zip pockets, a snap and zipper closure, and a funny little hook belt to dial in the fit. I've found that latter detail a bit annoying, as the small belt can be hard to use when you have gloves on or if your hands are freezing up. A very positive detail is the pocket construction - having a second internal pouch makes organizing all your doodads easy and comfortable despite there only being two pockets.

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Perfectly functional pockets.
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With a handy little mesh organizer inside.
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Highwaters.
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Though I do find they sit lower when wet.

I've found the Airmap fabric to be very comfortable against bare skin, so there's been no need to wear an intermediate layer underneath the Grits while riding. Sweat builds up a bit over long pedals, but far less than with other rain pants I've tried. These are essentially the only waterproof pants I'll wear on a regular bike ride - anything else is e-bike only, where I'm basically able to layer without fear of sweating very much at all.

Same as with the Cache anorak, the waterproofing lasts long enough for a couple hours in the pouring rain before wetting out. They remain comfortable even when that occurs, as the fabric is still thick enough to keep you from freezing in a strong breeze. Durability seems pretty good so far, with no significant wear showing up after plenty of riding. I've noticed the saddle-contact butt area is getting a bit discolored, but that's typical of anything that's getting subjected to a constant grinding of mud and grime.

One note on fit: there's only one length option on the Grit pant, and it's slightly shorter than other 7mesh options like the Glidepath pant. I didn't mind the slightly shorter fit, and found that it sat a bit lower than the pictures show when things were wet and they'd sagged down a bit with wear. Of course, my ankles and feet got soaked, but that's kind of my expectation with wet weather rides. The overall cut is roomier and far more comfortable than the mallcore-emo-kid-skinny-jean-cut lots of companies are using now, and fit knee pads and cyclist thighs well.



A Note on Pricing

I balked at the price of this kit initially, and still find it a bit hard to swallow, considering the fact that neither of these pieces are critical to your ride, nor are they a panacea when it comes to foul weather. On that front, I reached out to the folks at 7mesh to ask how a jacket and pants could cost so much. This isn't a referendum on 7mesh specifically, as I have the same frustration with most high-end apparel out there. I mean shit, people will spend $150 on a Supreme t-shirt.

bigquotes7mesh focuses on performance, innovation, and products that last. We start with the materials, working directly with fabric mills to develop fabrics and don’t pick off the shelf. This means we’re working on longer production schedules and spending a lot more time on R&D. We do this so we don’t compromise on performance or durability and as a result developed a PFAS-free fabric that still meets our performance requirements.

We also prototype and test all of our products here in Squamish before sending them to the factory, as well as pattern drafting in-house instead of going off drawings. This means we’re sewing samples and testing to get the fit and articulation just right, rather than crossing our fingers that a factory can realize our vision from a render. We’re also committed to high standards of quality and ethics and therefore work with the best manufacturers in China and Vietnam.

Lastly, you’ll notice prices of outdoor apparel going up across the board, and the mountain bike world isn’t immune to this. Manufacturing costs are increasing, and materials are being innovated to remove harmful chemicals of the past.

I appreciate the transparency here, and understand the broader factors at play that lead to the steady increases in pricing that we see across the board. That patterning and prototyping mentioned is why the fit of the pieces are so ideal for me, so whatever overhead that incurs is definitely worthwhile. Ultimately, it's your money, so the choice simply depends on what you value and how much you're willing to spend for style and some added utility.




Author Info:
dariodigiulio avatar

Member since Dec 25, 2016
167 articles

180 Comments
  • 80 9
 Anorak designs are stupid for bike application. Want to put on or take it off? You need to remove your helmet.
  • 6 0
 agree.
  • 19 4
 I have a teenager and I think this is fashion-driven more than anything else. Her grandpa is wearing the same horrendous patterned, pull-over style Patagonia from the 70's that the kids are all buying today.
  • 19 1
 I mean, I’m not saying you need to like or want an anorak. I don’t like them either. But just, objectively, look at that zipper. Of course you could get that off over a helmet.
  • 7 1
 Also can't zip it fully down for ventilation.
  • 1 2
 @BrambleLee: and then what? tie it around your waist? full-zip jackets vent without having to take them off...

I have one of @plylawn's teen's patagonia anoraks, it's great...not the best for bikes in borderline temps though. Cmon.

jackets for courses, etc...
  • 4 1
 @owl-X: I think anoraks are stupid. Just saying, in response to the dude above you, that you could clearly get this off over a helmet.
  • 3 0
 @BrambleLee: yeah. I assumed we're talking about how well a jacket would perform while biking...with venting being point of the don/doff discussion.

Anoraks are objectively great. Ask Oasis, they'll tell you.
  • 5 3
 You must wear a huge helmet.
  • 2 2
 No you don't
  • 4 16
flag likeittacky (Feb 9, 2024 at 18:39) (Below Threshold)
 Besides even if you did have to remove the helmet... are you that much of a clumsy clown that it would be a difficult task to do so. You are pathetic; there are people in the world doing daily task by themselves without legs, arms, eyesight, etc., etc.. This takes the cake though!
  • 10 5
 Oh no, i need to remove my helmet.......................that takes all of like 1 second dude.
  • 2 0
 It depends because the storage potential is huge. I took the habit of filling my front pocket with trail trash (mostly from hunters). It works ok for people who ride without backpack/bumbag so no option to store the jacket anyway. For a light wind jacket is a good. For a proper rainjacket I agree is nonsensical.
  • 1 0
 Anorak…are we in the 80s ?
  • 2 1
 @pinkknip: maybe we can even get gloves/mittens sewn into the sleeves so we don't lose them.
  • 1 0
 Wouldn't you just unzip the front half-zipper to slide it over your helmet?
  • 1 0
 @gerrycreighton: technically possible but I remember was a clumsy manoeuvre, the helmet tends to get trapped in it.
  • 90 46
 For $630 I could get materials, a sewing machine, take a few weeks' worth of sewing and tailoring lessons, and make a kit 80% as good. This is insane. 7mesh is great, they even employ some friends, but functional clothing should not be $630. The only clothing "worth" that kind of cash is the "special" 100% cotton t-shirts the %.001 is willing to buy.
  • 47 9
 Even if you could, would you? You pay for what you are not willing to do for yourself. Do you take the same approach to restaurants or wineries/breweries?
  • 19 2
 Yeah, I’m with you on that one. I live in the PNW, and while I don’t ride nearly as often in the winter as I do in the summer, I’d never spend this much. I take my riding shorts, spray them with $0.17 worth of waterproof spray, and they work just fine for a couple rides. Same with my old raceface rain jacket.

If the rain, plants, and puddles don’t get me soaked, I’ll be sweating my out of shape ass off and be soaked anyway. What’s the difference.
  • 38 2
 @vapidoscar: No, I put most of my efforts into complaining on mountain bike message boards. If I took time away from that to learn to sew who knows what might happen.
  • 39 2
 Have you looked at sewing machine prices lately? Keep dreaming buddy
  • 7 8
 @vapidoscar: In capitalism, things are generally priced competitively enough to take one, or multiple of the things I mentioned out of the equation. If I I buy $6 beer at a brewery, it's because the $6 would not get me much more than the hops and water needed to make it myself and on a larger scale. $6 wouldn't get me the skills, training, materials, or any of the equipment needed to make my own beer that doesn't taste like alcoholic plant water.
  • 13 5
 @Chondog94: still not buying $630 worth of wealth signaling
  • 25 0
 Do it. Send it Pinkbike and ask for a review.
  • 8 0
 @Chondog94: my machine wasn't super crazy expensive and I bought a decent one. Although my plans of making my own gear bags were thwarted by my lack of skill and experience.
  • 7 3
 this is outrageous, there's no way you'd do this
  • 9 0
 @vapidoscar: I did. I took 3 years of welding night school, so I could weld my own roll cage in my race car. Along with the roll cage, multiple house projects and at least a dozen paid small jobs ensued.

You cannot top the "built, not bought" feeling with spending a paycheck on some product. That product will most likely cause buyer remorse in it's lifetime.
  • 11 0
 Bet you can't
  • 14 1
 @vapidoscar: i spent hundreds on a pellet smoker, butcher paper, wireless thermometers, spices, rubs, sharp trimming knives, and an apron my grandma made me that says "mind if i smoke" (ok i didnt pay for the apron). now i can smoke my own meats that comes out kinda dry.

then i got a pizza oven, pizza peel, stupid special flour, etc. now i can make mediocre pizza.

then a sous vide and a vacuum sealer. i dont even use this anymore.

yea... it would be easier and cheaper to just go buy food.
  • 3 2
 You have friends working at 7Mesh can't get you a good discount ?
  • 3 6
 @vapidoscar: I do when a restaurant charges $42.69 for avocado toast.
  • 9 20
flag nickfranko (Feb 9, 2024 at 9:16) (Below Threshold)
 For $630 I could probably commission a one-off job to have the same item created. And it would look less like the garbage bag look that this has.
  • 78 4
 We'd want to see what you come up with! Remember needs to be available in men's and women's specific fits, include all the trims and buckles and size ranges XS - XXL Smile

We'll give you a Canadian Passport and a 25 litres of maple syrup if it works out.
  • 3 3
 For that money, I assume they also function in space.
  • 14 5
 Bro I love the whole DIY vibe you've got going on here and all, but you should probably do a quick Google on those costs before you say that. And if you think you'll learn how to make a good waterproof jacket in just a few weeks of sewing lessons you should go into textile production because you are a literal god amongst mortals. Still not saying you should buy this jacket, I wouldn't. But you're statement kinda reeks of ego and someone has to call you out on it.
  • 4 0
 @nickfranko: ummm thats RECYCLED garbage bags thank you very much....some people.
  • 3 1
 @RonSauce: Ha that's definitely the biggest hurdle. I come from a family of seamstresses and to get a machine that will produce tight seams like these and the right finish, one would need a fairly high end machine. My mother does a lot of casual quilting and the bare minimum machine was around 2k.

I've paid a lot of money for an excellent rain jacket, but I would never thrash it on a ride. I'd rather throw on a Costco special and get a little wet.
  • 6 7
 @7mesh: Yannow, for Canadian Citizenship this might be worth it... Free healthcare a 1yr of paternity leave is worth a lot more than whatever it costs to make 80% as good of a jacket...
  • 5 0
 @7mesh: on point :-)
  • 7 0
 @vapidoscar: Yeah, many of us do, and macro economic numbers suggest we're all eating out less, cutting back on luxuries which a $300 pull-over - quantanium-enriched, carbon-neutral, slavery-free, no-GMO, organic aside - most definitely is. It's not the absolutes between buy this or make it yourself, but the alternatives to dropping $600+ bucks on a few pieces of optional clothing, of which there are many.
  • 5 10
flag benzito (Feb 9, 2024 at 10:25) (Below Threshold)
 @7mesh: You could have said more without even responding
  • 3 0
 A hot air tape machine costs around 15k.
  • 7 0
 Plenty of ethical small companies compete on price - I don't find 7mesh's price justification very reasonable. What I do know from running a couple small businesses is that some companies are just wildly inefficient and have far higher overhead than comparable companies and need to charge much higher prices for their employees and owners to make a living. I know business owners who charged 50% more than me for the same product and are still struggling to make it.

We can never know, of course, unless we knew 7mesh's expenses. OneUp beats much larger companies on price. So does PNW. Ride Concepts. The list goes on. Just a suspicion, may or may not be true, but I've seen it borne out in the business world plenty of times. It's just nuts how high these prices are.
  • 1 7
flag dmrluc (Feb 9, 2024 at 11:32) (Below Threshold)
 @rickybobby19: "Running a couple small businesses" Don't be coy, tell us the names! Let's see some figures! It's not that I don't believe, it's just that I don't believe you!
  • 4 0
 No, you really couldn’t. You have no idea what the f*ck you’re talking about.
  • 1 0
 If you really think you can do it, go for it; don't just waste your time telling us all how easy it would be for you.

Spoiler alert; you can't. Been there, tried that (but with bike frames, not clothing).
  • 11 5
 I live and ride year round in the pacific northwest. 7mesh makes outstanding product, and is a big part of what enables me to ride right through our very, very wet winter seasons. I appreciate that, and I am willing to pay for it. It's a conscious choice that I make, and that cost does not keep me up at night. I am not wealthy and yes, I have tried umpteen other brands over the years. Most have been a disappointment, but maybe they won't be for you.

It's great that there are so many options for us MTBers to choose from. There's something for everyone, right? If 7mesh isn't for you, what's the point of slagging the brand? Go fill your boots with another brand that works for you and get out there and enjoy the wet and mud. It's fun!
  • 5 0
 @Chondog94: I'm no expert but I think all you really need is straight stitch and zigzag. Lots of machines from the fourties to the seventies have that and are sturdy enough to stitch denim and sailcloth without a walking foot. Usually around 100 bucks on marketplace. Some go for more, often the seller will tell you the name of the mechanic that looked after it.
  • 31 1
 @rickybobby19: Interesting, thanks! I’m one of the founders, and happy to add some context for this and some of the pricing comments. (So when I type 'you' I don't mean you personally)

Yes we’re small. OneUp is actually much larger than us, I don't know about the others. And yes we are inefficient in a business sense, but not meaning disorganized, more in how we allocate resources. We're here to build better mousetraps, that's our drive. So we over-invest in product development, and we sacrifice elsewhere to keep after it.

Example, we think the best chamois collection comes from Elastic Interface in Italy. Several top brands use them, and some private label them to call them their own designs. We use EI too, but not off-the-shelf. We partnered with them, but also built our own molds and processes, and went to Italy to commercialize them in their factory. And we left them EI branded because we were focused on the result, not the hype. EI still do the heavy lifting.

That probably doesn’t make economic sense. Their chamois was already the best. And our effort cost the same whether we're building at our scale, or Fox's or Rapha's. It's hard to absorb at our size. But we like to push, the highest compliment we get being ‘worthy’ from a few we care most about. So we take the steps we need. We develop materials directly with the makers, partner with the most capable factories, and wrestle with the increased costs, custom work, upcharges, and long development and lead times that come with that. 2-3 years developing WTV, same for Airmap.

For us, wrestling with those costs translates into making do with less elsewhere, and I give kudos to our team who come together to make it work (possibly excluding my portion!). We’re 24 people all-in, and on product we're going toe-to-toe vs the $250M-$3B+ juggernauts in bike and outdoor, with hundreds or thousands of employees, all the muscle, and every resource they could want. The truth is there are a lot fewer brands pushing the envelope than you’d think.

So...if you like what we do, we're stoked! But not everyone has to. We don’t know everything, we don't get everything right, and we don’t think one solution is good for everyone. If you prefer a different looking mousetrap, that's cool. Or one that's more affordable, no problem. You don’t need us to make it, there are plenty of options already. And if you want an even cheaper mousetrap from a super-efficient company, there are specialists that can do a good job for you.

For me, the different approaches by different brands are super cool to see. We’re pushing on what’s important to us, and others make different choices. At the end of the day very few of us actually need an amazing mousetrap, or frame, or dropper, or sunglasses. We don’t even need great ones, really, for just riding bikes in the woods. But it’s nice to have options.
  • 6 1
 @7mesh: Starting in the 90's, I spent a few decades working in the outdoor industry for a manufacturer, mainly with waterproof breathables. 7mesh is the the best product I've seen in 30 years... that includes visiting hundreds of stores around the world/ trade shows etc etc. We were always were chasing Arc'Teryx or Norrona, but 7mesh tops them IMO. If you know the trade, you know that the gear is worth every cent they are asking. I'd love to have a wardrobe full, but I can't justify that. So I choose carefully.
  • 2 0
 @vapidoscar: I got a sick Adidas windbreaker for $45 and pocket the rest of the cash.
  • 3 0
 I'd almost pay for your attempt here, just to watch you 'sew' waterproof/weather resistant cycling apparel. Being comfortable on your bike with apparel that fits is priceless, staying warm and dry is beyond that.
  • 1 0
 @RonSauce: I found a really nice Janome on craigslist a few years back, during covid, use it to make small mods to my casual clothes and cycling clothes. Skill and experience is critical, even simple hemming was a disaster, but I have got way better. I tried making a top for my niece with some fabric from fabric store-that was a complete disaster.
  • 5 0
 @7mesh: I own....I think about 6 pieces of 7mesh product, started my 'small' collection back in 2018?...recently upgraded an old jacket with 7mesh. I did get it on sale, I think 20-30% off, I forget, but every piece I own is one of my favorites...I love the bibs, I have some glidepath shorts, I have 2 compound jerseys which are the best things I own (I think you stopped making them?) and 2 jackets-a proper rain jacket and a wind shell....all great stuff and I feel comfortable in all of them and confidence I will ride longer without comfort issues.
I own some cheap shit too, some adidas tech tops, some on sale 50 off FOX and TLD shit, Rapha mtb shit on sale. I guess I am just saying, I like your products a lot, i'd own more of them if it were more in my budget, I am just selective about what I NEED and BUY from you or anyone. Keep up the good work, I like your brand, the products I buy and really like knowing the process in your making of the product-gives me confidence in my investment.
  • 1 1
 @mkul7r4: yes. Some people eat burgers and others eat lobster.
  • 2 1
 @tanadog: That means a lot personally! I was at Arc from very early through that era, it was a wild ride and the pace of innovation was fantastic. We strive to carry the ethos forward - thank you for the feedback.
  • 2 1
 @yakimonti: Thanks! The Compound is awesome, an absolute favourite in-house. We'd like to do it again with updated textiles, but have to find the right combo
  • 2 0
 @joecrosby: $0.17 for waterproof spray - that's outrageous! Personally, I just hover over a pan of sizzling bacon to get just the right amount of water resistance into whatever clothing I'm going to ride in that day. If I was on the wet coast, I'd probably just wipe the pan clean with my shirt (after eating the bacon of course), for that extra super duper waterproofness.
  • 2 0
 @Fill-Freakin: good thinking, I do like bacon. And with your method, you can throw those pieces of bacon in your pocket for ride snacks.
  • 2 2
 @dmrluc: it's not ego. It's hyperbole, the guy was just trying to illustrate he felt it was very expensive in a creative way.

Forum-dwellers need to brush up on their meta language.
It's not all literal for maple's sake.
  • 4 0
 @7mesh: keep it up. Love your stuff and love supporting real people.
  • 3 0
 I bought a car 6 years ago for $1600 and it just cranked over 290k kms. But I also bought $370 Grit paints for myself and then my wife and it’s one of my favourite riding items. It’s the do everything pant. If it holds up, which it so far has, then I’m more than happy. I put my money where it matters to me more…mountain biking Smile
  • 3 0
 @torro86: if you really cared about mountain biking, you'd but a $370 car and $1600 pants lol
  • 8 0
 @mrbrighteyes lol. No you couldn't. My girlfriend is a hobbyist sewist who spends pretty much every free moment she has sewing. She makes a lot of her own clothing, and sometimes clothes for me. She won't even try to make riding clothes for me becasue the tech fabrics/ threads typically require stretch and combining panels to allow movement that is actually really complicated.

TLDR: with a few weeks of sewing lessons you'd be ripping your hair out trying to make a simple button down shirt out of cotton. It would take you years of dedication and expensive equipment to make the the equivelant of 7mesh clothing.

I'm only writing this because you belittled many people's profession with your post. What do you do professionaly? I bet I could just take a few weeks of classes and get up to speed right? Do your job for you?

It takes a skilled human to sew clothing, even if it's a pair of pants from Walmart. The world is swamped with dirt cheap clothing options that come at the cost of many ethics being disregarded. It's pretty sad everyone flips their shit everytime someone trys to take the high road and produce high quaility stuff that will last AND compensates the producers appropriately.
  • 1 0
 @rpdale: You summed it up nicely.
  • 4 0
 @rpdale: I love that your TLDR is longer than the the part that’s allegedly too long to read.
  • 1 0
 @everythingsucks: TLDR...TLDR
  • 40 2
 $850 Canadian pesos (pre tax / shipping etc) for a riding jacket and pants is f'ing insane. It costs that much because the market bears it, and that's all.
  • 14 1
 It is beyond effing insane. After taxes in Canada these will be just shy of $1,000. Especially for something that will rip to shreds if you crash. And, you will.
  • 15 1
 The best cycling jacket I've found is a Patagonia Houdini. "Staying dry" while working out in the rain is a hilarious concept (you're either wet from sweat or you're wet from rain) and I'd rather be wet, warm, and ventilated than wet, warm, and sticky/clammy. "Waterproof" jackets almost always mean sticky/clammy.

Enough merino layers to stay warm and a Houdini is a great combo. You can literally stuff a Houdini into a pants pocket. And it's $109.
  • 10 4
 @leggatt: Speaking from experience, 7Mesh have some of the best repairs in the game.
I fall off my bike plenty, and I'm always impressed with the quality of repairs that they have done.
  • 4 2
 @leggatt: I've crashed in a 7mesh jacket, a big one and grazed a rock slab wall once....stuff is still going strong. But trust me, when it happened my first thought was "f*ck, my $300 jacket is toast"....it wasn't....and I was dry and comfortable and washes well.
  • 31 3
 I can't even imagine spending $700 on a kit with "Made in China" on the tags.
  • 37 6
 Lots of companies: we outsource to China to reduce costs because they have no ethics and work children to death for pennies.

7mesh: China, the land of ethics and quality, is why our clothes are more expensive.
  • 4 10
flag graveldaddy FL (Feb 9, 2024 at 10:33) (Below Threshold)
 @MidwestMountains & @CheddarJack46 I assume you're both expressing this displeasure of an expensive thing manufactured overseas on a computer or phone that was made in the US of A? At a fraction of the cost?
  • 8 1
 @graveldaddy: You're missing the point and ignoring the context in which it was made in.

Not speaking for other dude, but my point is I found it quite silly that "made in china" came up in response to why the jackets cost so much. Not that they are made in China.

Companies are tripping over each other trying to bullshit their way towards profits while completely contradicting each other.

Outsourcing to China reduces cost. While we are on the BS train....

My usual MTB kit is not any more expensive than it was 5 years ago. Maybe 5 bucks more for name brand higher end apparel but it's constantly in sale. Yes, inflation is a thing. We get it but a $300 hoodie is not normal.

Clothes don't "perform".

And I would expect you to test your f*cking product before selling it.
  • 2 1
 @graveldaddy: never seen a made in North America/Europe phone but I have for plenty of bike related items. For the cost of a lot of this stuff I do find it funny that it’s same cost or more for made in China than America.
  • 3 0
 @MillerReid: could be wrong, but I think that Nokia, Motorola as well as Ericsson all produced phones in Europe. Funny how quickly the world changes.
  • 20 1
 $630 for the kit? You’ve got to be kidding me. I picked up a pair of Truewerk T2 pants soft shell pants for about $70US. Tons of pockets, water resistance, solid workmanship. Cheap light windbreaker over wool or fleece layers on top. If it’s pouring rain, I stay in and save the trails. The price of high end bike clothing and eyewear is just silly.
  • 16 1
 For that price, I would rather take a high end shock or brake upgrade and ride butt naked in the wet cold. Even if you send production to China!
  • 15 0
 Forget the content of the reviews, just do more comedy poses please. Good 1st effort Dario....
  • 12 0
 LOL. They can have their reasons for the cost, but even for technical, outdoor-focused stuff these prices are pretty bonkers, Arc'teryx-level stuff. I mean...

Marmot Precip - $120
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L - $179
REI XeroDry - $130
MH Stretch Ozonic - $200
OR Helium - ~$100

Etc. etc. And sure, there may be differences (though from the reviews the Strech Ozonic sounds quite similar)...but enough to justify the extra money?

I mean, at least with Arc'teryx you get a cool logo and everyone KNOWS you're a dentist...
  • 2 0
 OR launching a line of mtb specific gear in the spring. If it's anywhere near the value and quality of the Helium it's gonna do well.
  • 15 1
 I never leave comments, but that $330-dollar price tag for a f***ing MTB jacket is ridiculous!
  • 2 6
flag yakimonti (Feb 10, 2024 at 9:35) (Below Threshold)
 @cupobeanzz so, you broke your silence to hate on people that want nice stuff. Cool.
  • 15 1
 So how does Ride NF manage to make there awesome gear in Canada for half the price?
  • 8 0
 I might be in the minority, but most of my rides are short enough that I can mostly afford to just get wet and muddy. If I were out for 6 or 8 hours it might start to be a problem, but for 2 hours, who cares?
  • 2 0
 if you wear this kit, peel it off at the end of your ride and head for a post-ride beer all clean, did you even go for a ride? Will that beer taste as good if you're crack isn't wet and your legs aren't covered in drying mud?
  • 15 7
 I'll never understand people who get so excited about the price of something? They are not forcing you to buy it. 7mesh has never pretended to be a budget option.
  • 1 0
 I agree, spend what you want to on gear and leave it there. I would be pretty annoyed if I shredded these during a crash though, given the cost and then the cost to replace them...
  • 5 0
 I've tried finding the perfect waterproof but breathable clothes for a while now. My conclusion is that the more waterproof it is, the less it breathes, and vice-versa. Gore-tex despite all its wonderful claims isn't as amazing as I once believed it would be. Now I just go with good quality stuff but use DWR wash on regular basis, so some waterproofing, but still breathability.
  • 5 0
 This is the way. Although 3L GORE-TEX is truly amazing when used as intended, it's not engineered for applications where users are approaching max heart rate, no matter the weather conditions. Save it for lower output use when you need a portable storm shelter. Most mountain bikers are better served following what outdoors people did for countless generations before modern waterproof materials were invented. If it's above freezing, don't worry so much about staying dry, instead learn to be comfortable damp. Layer smart. Choose materials that insulate when wet. Avoid cotton at all costs. Minimize heat loss at your hands and head. Prioritize getting dry when you take a break.
  • 4 0
 @DirtCrab: @Ryawesomerpm - podcast on this here - podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-experts-explain-why-your-jacket-isnt-waterproof/id1461106709?i=1000644146441

more waterproof = less breathable, old gore-tex much better than new, cold and dry conditions are ideal for 'waterproofs' to breath properly - just when you need them the least.
  • 1 0
 @hungrymonkey: that might be true, but for someone like me, who doesnt sweat that much, i can´t get enough waterproofing.
my only demand is stuff being comfy, durable and as waterproof as possible. some of my friends however are soaked in sweat after our ride and freeze with my approach of clothing Big Grin
  • 4 0
 The rest of their cycling gear is decent value for what you get. Unfortunately the new airmap collection is so expensive I see very little value to be had by the average consumer here. This is for guys who also buy carbon road bikes for 15k
  • 4 1
 no, no! the dudes with $15K road bikes head over to Assos for their kit! :*)
  • 4 0
 For the guys that buy $19k S-Works ebikes.
  • 8 2
 I love how they justify their prices by saying they do some R&D, make samples, and well everyone else in the industry is raising their prices too.
  • 3 0
 @Juarez
Glad to hear that someone else is riding the best gear that is currently available on the mtb and gravel market.
My gear.
Skipilot Jacket & Chilco Vest
Slab Short
Glidepath Pants
Elevate and Desperado Shirts
Recently purchased the Cache Anorak and Gryphon Crew and absolutely love these pieces of clothing. I will mention that all these items were bought on sale and have no regretted one day on the mtb or gravel bike. If you ride more that 200 + days a year, it will always be worth it.
Top Class stuff and I will be purchasing 7Mesh for the next couple of years...thanks for the great products, customer service.
  • 2 0
 That is insanely expensive, holy cow! Hopefully they have a great pro program because other than celebrities, atty's, dentists and doctors I have no clue who would put down this kind of $$ when there are so many equally as good options out there for half (if not better) of this cost. Stuff looks rad, and likely is, just not THAT rad.......
  • 2 0
 The Patagonia Dirt Roamer Dario mentioned has been my favorite riding jacket for the Southeast US. It breathes really well at the expense of waterproofness, but that's a tradeoff I'm willing to take around here. I use it mainly as an outer layer during cold but dry winter rides. If it rains in the summer here it's usually a deluge and hot as balls so a jacket just makes the whole experience that much more uncomfortable.
  • 4 2
 "We also prototype and test all of our products here in Squamish" - aka one of the most expensive places to live in the world, and so we as consumers have to pay for that.

I am not saying companies shouldn't be based in Squamish, Boulder, etc. but between real estate, taxes and, in theory, higher wages required for staff, location most definitely factors into the cost of the product.
  • 5 1
 Squamish has special rain
  • 2 0
 Pretty sure oneup also prototype and test in Squamish, and their products are some of the best value...

Apples to pears comparison, but prototyping/testing location seems an odd justification. Frame/component testing companies who have facilities in Asia and Europe charge the same regardless of location, from what I've seen...
  • 3 0
 First photo proves that a hood on a mtb jacket is pointless. Just give me a decent high collar when fully zipped up, and a jacket that doesn't go into a parachute/sail mode when 1/3 unzipped.
  • 4 2
 We live part-time in the French alps & there’s a product development center nearby where designers are constantly working with fabric suppliers etc as they develop and test outdoor clothing. Despite having accumulated a ton of Patagonia, Arc Teryx etc gear over the years, I find myself replacing with this brand because the designs (on some products) are so superior. For example, they have an mtb pant that uses a combination of waterproof breathable membrane panels in key areas with highly breathable softshell in others. Easily the best I’ve owned for riding in wet or windy winter weather. Although designed in the French version of Squamish, these are mfged in Asia. So far sounds just like 7Mesh right? Well yeah, except Price is 50 euros.
  • 6 0
 Glowing review like that without naming the brand? You tease!
  • 1 0
 Clearly they don't pay their ambassadors enough, though! lol
  • 2 0
 @slimboyjim: yup that omission was intentional. There’s a larger economic question here — service workers here make a decent wage, yet I can buy lunch at a ski resort at twice the quality & half the price of a NA resort where employees are barely scraping by.
  • 1 0
 What's the brand?
  • 6 1
 This industry is straight up kooky dooks. The fools that pay for this are just that, fools.
  • 2 0
 Enjoyed Dario’s more critical review and the comparisons to other kit. I have a few items from OrNot, the fact they’re made in California with an eye on environmentally friendly practices helps sell it for me. Just be warned that the fit is more for curly bar body types, I am carrying an extra tire insert in my abdominal area, and size up.
  • 2 0
 honestly, i don't have the money to buy, so i kind of stop caring. it will be either having a jacket or not being able to afford groceries. these companies can charge as much as they want, eventually ppl in general will stop buying.
  • 2 0
 Okay, so here is my generic short round southern England ancestry clothing size comment. Almost every piece of clothing one might want to buy comes in small, medium, large, extra large. That’s usually it. I am happy for Dario that this piece of Uber nice gear fits him well. To get it to fit my frame, all 172cm (5’ 8”) of it, I would have to buy it inXL. That would mean it would be wide enough but way too long in both torso and arms. I would happily pay double (honestly) if I could send them my measurements and they made something that actually fit me. And I bet there are plenty of other short rounds and tall skinnies out there that feel the same. Apologies (slightly) for the rant Smile .
  • 2 0
 I've got a few @7mesh jerseys and have to say they've held up outstandingly well compared to others brands I've bought at a similar time which are now looking tatty .Admittedly i got those in a sale off sports pursuit but now i know the quality is light years above the rest ill definitely buy more 7mesh items , with that said i couldn't justify $650 for a coat my fox ranger coat holds up well enough which i got for $80
  • 4 0
 7Mesh has nice clothing and good sales. Unless you need it NOW, wait for a sale.
  • 1 0
 Yeah but how big of a sale we talkin?
  • 3 0
 yes prices are going up and the fabrics are getting better, but at the same time there's a lot of cheaper stuff with fabrics that would have blown my 2015 mind.
  • 2 1
 What is the water proof rating of these items?? That price tag for a material that is not even on par with
Gore-Tex is nuts. if you look you can find deals on Gore-Tex jackets/pants from some really good biking brands at reasonable prices; and even cheaper for none Gore-Tex.
  • 6 5
 Our Airmap collection is highly water resistant (not waterproof) but the pay off is much much better breathability, better fit, stretch and PFC + PFAS Chemical free. For days where you need some water resistance but not GoreTex levels. But if you live somewhere where the rain pours, we have our Skypilot and Copilot 100% waterproof GoreTex jackets Smile
  • 1 0
 Frogg Toggs ultra lite or extreme lite jackets are pretty popular in the long-distance hiking world - and they're super cheap 25-60 USD. It would be interesting to hear your perspective on these ultra-budget options compared to this high-end stuff.
  • 2 0
 I've tried the Toggs stuff on the bike, and it can't hold up to abrasion - rubs through in no time. I do wear Body Wrappers dance pants as a windbreak layer when it's super cold though, more on that later.
  • 1 0
 3-layer Chinese or Vietnamese made polyester clothing, pick a brand, it's all the same, functions the same, garbage after it wets out. Way to many brands these days just design and have a factory build for them. Their budget is spent on marketing to build an image that appeals to us. That model is showing cracks with recent closures of some outdoor brands. 3layer jackets have a use, I have a 15year old Marmot jacket, lifetime warranty and still costs $100

The only real fabric I've ever used that doesn't wet out, is breathable, and 100% waterproof is Columbia's Outdry, they could use better marketing for sure.
  • 5 4
 Lots of chatter here from people who don’t use the product.
There are a TON of clothing options out there and lots of products to meet any budget.
@7mesh is at the high-end of the spectrum. (Although there are plenty more expensive options too.)

My gear.
Revelation Jacket
Revo Short
Slab Short
Glidepath Pants
Glidepath Shorts
Optic Jerseys
Socks (even these are great)


Cons:
Expensive. (As commented) Very athletic fit (big riders need to size up). Durability 7/10. (Zipper pulls fall off, some seam separation, the odd snap breaks, graphics wear off). To be fair, I use my gear a lot as an instructor. Style. (Love it or hate it)

Pros:
Incredible fit and made for movement. When I’m wearing my 7Mesh gear, I don’t even know it’s on. The cut and length are exactly right for me (6’3”, 220”lbs).

Incredible performance. The fabrics are hands down the best I’ve ever used. I never have any accumulation of sweat in the summer and they seem to be disproportionally warm considering how thin most fabrics. My Revelation jacket is the best jacket I've ever owned across any sport. IF you ride in the rain, stand around giving lessons, hike mountains with your bike on your back, bikepack, gravel ride in spring, or fatbike all the winter, this gear is amazing. Ultimately I have to be fully functional on the bike in any conditions during lessons so the high performance and comfort are worth it.


M.
  • 3 3
 Appreciate this! We had a couple of known issues on your cons list (graphics, argh), but snap and seam issues should be rare. If something let you down, make sure to hit us up to take care of things.
  • 2 0
 @7mesh: There are always trade offs; performance vs, unbreakable is one. We equip every instructor on our team at Ride Ottawa with pants and jackets because the performance matters.

www.rideottawa.com
  • 2 0
 It would be nice if a Canadian media company could provide Canadian prices on a Canadian product. I get that there's a big U.S. audience to the website, but could you not at least provide both prices?
  • 1 0
 Outside is based in the US…
  • 1 0
 7mesh is so expensive when I got their pro deal email I laughed heartily at it. Y'all wildin with this shit. The MTB industry wondering why all of the brands are closing and having layoffs while also pushing unnecessary "innovations" for inflated rates.
Bike shops going flat because all of the 2020 customers left, not realizing they chased us all off with predatory pricing, poor customer service, garbage equipment and "innovations" that turn to a pile of sand after 3 rides.
Take lots of as an example. Not enough people actually want the overpriced crap to buy it. Even at a discount.
Rant over
  • 4 0
 330 for a hoodie...... wow. To each their own I guess.
  • 5 1
 These prices are friggin hilarious.
  • 5 1
 For only $630 you, too, can look like Barney the dinosaur!
  • 4 1
 $20 uniqlo travel rain jacket. folds into itself to about the size of a fat PB&J. decently keeps me dry.
  • 1 0
 @jalopyj A good solution, if yer cool with sweatshops.
  • 1 0
 This fabric is magic. I wear the chilco anorak fatbiking, its warm, light and thin but breathes.

I want this Cache jacket for overtop when its colder but the price tag is wild at $450.
  • 4 0
 All the $$$ to look like Grimace....
  • 3 0
 Wait for the Fall sale. 7mesh stuff is really nice and always goes on sale.
  • 1 1
 ARKTERIKS MESH, udgdudhudhdudhuh (caved in head emoji). I really hope this shit doesn't sell, the Woods jacket from Can Tire works sick especially when on sale for like 60$. Some c*nts will buy this though, brainless c*nts.
  • 4 2
 Have they made reparations with the first nations people of Squamish, known as Sḵwx̱wú7mesh? The people they stole their name from without permission?
  • 2 0
 It's so fun to watch this industry from a far nowadays, I just ride my bike, no upgrades and same clothes I have had for the last few years. I feel so rich.
  • 3 0
 Almost $1,000 CAD after taxes, shipping etc. That's INSANE!
I'll never buy anything from this brand now. Thanks for sharing
  • 1 1
 7Mesh is truly amazing gear. It is not cheap but you get what you pay for. IMO well worth the investment. Glide path pants, shorts, Compound jersey, Chilco Anorak, Chilco Vest, Merino long sleeve T. If you have not tried one of their pieces you really should. Oh and Skypilot Jacket. Also what I did not read may have missed it, is their crash replacent program. Well worth the investment.
  • 2 0
 Why didn't they call themselves Skwxwú ? And is the name pronounced ho-mesh?
  • 2 0
 Definitely on expensive side. And unfortunately even expensive things wear out (especially membranes stop working overtime).
  • 2 0
 I'm with Seb on this one; "Is it worth that much? Of course not; it's a jacket!"
  • 4 1
 Wouldn't buy their trash on the dumb name alone.
  • 2 4
 Ok...don't let the door hit you in the krhaack!
  • 2 0
 Bougie shootout:

7mesh anorak: $330
Velocio anorak: $389
Rapha Gore Infinium (not anorak): $300
  • 4 4
 fyi Rapha is $375, on sale for the plebes Wink Just a heads up Infinium isn't waterproof, it's a hybrid. (Looks like a decent piece imo)
  • 2 0
 Overpriced china crap everything I’ve owned by them has fallen apart at the seams.
  • 2 0
 Umm, these seem far to expensive. I'd rather be cold and wet.
  • 13 0
 I'm very critical of the prices of cycling gear, but let's not overlook there is a spectrum of solutions between wet n' cold and $700 rainsuit.
  • 3 0
 nukeproof gear is amazing, and you can get it at least for a fifth of that price
  • 1 0
 @Ar-Men135: can you get it anymore? Who's the dealer for Canada?
  • 4 1
 BIG LOL
  • 2 0
 A timeless classic, I'm honored.
  • 2 0
 There are SO many better places to spend $700 on mountain biking…
  • 1 0
 What's the point of using PFAS free material? Why bother when you can make cheaper stuff that gives you cancer?
  • 2 0
 purp skurp from up north
  • 1 0
 Why has everything gotten so pricey
  • 1 1
 Insane prices. No way doode. Does 7mesh mean “moronic pricing structure” in another language or something?
  • 1 0
 2024 is not the year for exxxtream price discovery.
  • 1 0
 Just buy a Patagonia Dirt Roamer from the worn wear site.
  • 1 0
 Makes rapha look like a STEAL
  • 2 0
 Nope
  • 1 0
 That'll be 0mesh for me, no thanks.
  • 1 0
 sounds like a lot of you neeed some ProDeals
  • 10 12
 7Mesh is the Buckleys of cycling apparel - It's expensive. But it works. Hard to go with any other outerwear after you've had some of this kit!
  • 3 0
 I'm not sure what Buckley's is, and therefore I can't be sure what this comment is actually saying. But, I do have some 7Mesh stuff and it is awesome. That being said, I think I'll just stay inside and not get wet instead of spending that much money on this.
  • 7 5
 That's exactly it! Like so many of us, I rode for years and years in less expensive gear and/or started out riding in non-bike specific clothing. At this point in my life, I'd rather spend more once and enjoy great gear for years to come. 7mesh offers repair service, which is important to me. Supporting a BC company is another consideration. Lastly, prices in general are going through the roof, costs are exploding. I don't think bike industry players are setting price-points simply to rake in as much as possible. They want to sell and the ever increasing production cost makes their life's more difficult.
  • 2 0
 I'm in a different boat, I have 2 pieces of 7mesh gear, both times purchased with a discount code so I didn't purchase anywhere near full price. I would be more disappointed if I bought them full price. Having to deal with stretched shoulder straps on the bib is one thing, but the sewing job on the glidepath pants has been unraveling in the year I've owned it.
  • 4 0
 Funny...after owning plenty of mtb-specific clothing, my favorite shorts are long-inseam hiking shorts that cost $60, merino long sleeve tops (under $60), and a Patagonia Houdini ($99). Slim, stretchy, long hiking pants for wet/cold days too...much preferred to most MTB-specific pants that cost a whole lot more.
  • 1 0
 How much did they pay you to say this
  • 2 2
 Isn't it frowned upon to ride in conditions this kit would merit anyway?
  • 4 0
 Not in some places. Where I live (in California), yes, but in BC the trails hold up very well to water. In Pemberton, they don't want you riding some trails *unless* it's rained recently!
  • 2 0
 @MtbSince84: California includes many riding areas with decomposed granite soils (granular, almost sandy) that is very high porosity & drains so well that riding during a storm is no problem







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