Review: ENNEF Design's Cold Weather Kit
If local businesses tend to build loyal customer bases, ENNEF Design Corp, better known as simply “NF”, might have more of a cult following. If you’ve spent any time riding bikes in the proximity of Vancouver, where their apparel is made, you’ve likely seen their DP3 pants in action. Evolving from that line are the Heavyweight Pants and Mid-Weight Jacket which use the same 4-way stretch, DWR-coated material.
Building off of the success of the winter-rated Berzerker pants and the same cut as the DP3 bottoms, the Heavyweight Pants are insulated with a Reprieve polar fleece inside. The latest design sees the addition of a second zippered pocket on the lower left leg and two hand pockets. Of course, they continue to use ENNEF’s trademark stretchy waistband that omits a fly opening in favor of dexterity and longevity.
Cut from the same cloth, the Mid-Weight jacket features the bomber, 4-way stretch material that serves as the base for the Heavyweight pants, but foregoes the fleece lining. That situates the jacket to a more well rounded, 3-season jacket with neat integrated arm gaiters and a double-ended zipper.
![ENNEF DESIGN CORP HEAVY WEIGHT PANTS MID-WEIGHT JACKET]()
At a price point of $190 USD, they align with other winter pants from competing brands. They're constructed from 94% polyester, 6% Spandex on the front and are 100% polyester at the back. In terms of colorways, the Heavyweight Pants only come in black, with three options for logo finishes; black, white, or glow in the dark. Free shipping is offered within North America too.
![ENNEF DESIGN CORP HEAVY WEIGHT PANTS MID-WEIGHT JACKET]()
![ENNEF DESIGN CORP HEAVY WEIGHT PANTS MID-WEIGHT JACKET]()
Ride Impressions
When I first pulled the Heavyweight Pants on, I instantly felt warm and cozy, ready for a blast through the severely slushy trails. The fleece lining is extremely comfortable and insulating. Be warned, thooug, these pants are ridiculously warm! If you’re busting out strenuous climbs in temperatures above 6 or 7 degrees Celsius (43 - 45° F), vents would be a huge asset to include in the construction. They also won’t keep you as dry as a pure waterproof pant either, but do a decent job when the DWR coating is still fresh.
For such a thick sandwich of material layers, there is very little bulk and the placement of the phone pocket holds your device tightly out of the way while you pedal. I did find that the upper thigh area was a bit restrictive while pedalling with my seat at full extension, despite the stretchy and durable materials.
![ENNEF DESIGN CORP HEAVY WEIGHT PANTS MID-WEIGHT JACKET]()
![ENNEF DESIGN CORP HEAVY WEIGHT PANTS MID-WEIGHT JACKET]()
+ Fleece liner keeps you toasty warm
+ Durable without being bulky
+ Long inseam and stretchy waistband can fit a variety of body types
- Lack of ventilation limits their functionality
- As a winter pant, a waterproof back rise and yoke would useful
- Slightly restrictive in the upper thigh and waist area while climbing
![ENNEF DESIGN CORP HEAVY WEIGHT PANTS MID-WEIGHT JACKET]()
The Mid-Weight Jacket is available in six sizes and three colors; black, taupe, and fireweed. I found the size medium to have a moderate arm length and generous room in the chest. The tapered cuffs run long on the top to keep water from running directly into your gloves or up the sleeves, but there are no velcro adjustments. Although the hood is just large enough to pull over a helmet, the only area that offers the ability to cinch up some of the excess material is at the waist hem via an elastic pull cord.
When fully zipped up, the collar does come in tight enough to keep cold air from funnelling down your neck without feeling claustrophobic. The Mid-Weight Jacket uses a two-way zipper on the body which makes staying covered up while removing muddy pants much easier. There's a single zippered chest pocket up top that fits a phone and two hands pockets at the sides.
![ENNEF DESIGN CORP HEAVY WEIGHT PANTS MID-WEIGHT JACKET]()
![ENNEF DESIGN CORP HEAVY WEIGHT PANTS MID-WEIGHT JACKET]()
Ride Impressions
After picking up the Mid-Weight jacket, I anticipated that it would breathe similarly to the DP3 pants that I’ve used before. Since there are no underarm vents or perforated panels, I chose to wear it on days where I primarily shuttled, times when I required more shielding from the spray rather than breathability to exhaust sweat from pedalling efforts.
What I appreciated most about the Mid-Weight Jacket was the extra length on the arm cuffs and stretch factor across the shoulder panel. The main zipper also doesn’t jam up with mud as easily as some of the tighter, waterproof options. In regards to the other zippers, if I were to choose their placement, I’d relocate two of them to the underarm area and increase the versatility of the jacket. The chest pocket is the perfect size for a phone, but is at an awkward angle to quickly access.
For my height and weight (76 kg / 178 cm) I also found the chest to be overly baggy. Even with the waist hem drawn in, I caught the jacket on my seat while descending a few times. Scaling down to size might be the best option here if you want an athletic fit, keeping in mind how stretchy and non-restrictive the material is.
![ENNEF DESIGN CORP HEAVY WEIGHT PANTS MID-WEIGHT JACKET]()
![ENNEF DESIGN CORP HEAVY WEIGHT PANTS MID-WEIGHT JACKET]()
+ Stretchy material doesn't restrict movements
+ Durability is higher than most waterproof options
- DWR waterproofing only goes so far
- Lack of vents and material type resists breathability
- Chest area is baggy
Building off of the success of the winter-rated Berzerker pants and the same cut as the DP3 bottoms, the Heavyweight Pants are insulated with a Reprieve polar fleece inside. The latest design sees the addition of a second zippered pocket on the lower left leg and two hand pockets. Of course, they continue to use ENNEF’s trademark stretchy waistband that omits a fly opening in favor of dexterity and longevity.
Cut from the same cloth, the Mid-Weight jacket features the bomber, 4-way stretch material that serves as the base for the Heavyweight pants, but foregoes the fleece lining. That situates the jacket to a more well rounded, 3-season jacket with neat integrated arm gaiters and a double-ended zipper.
The Heavyweight pants come in six sizes, ranging from XS-XXL. ENNEF states that they are a slim fit, just like the DP3 pants. Although there is no sizing chart, they are a true North American fit with ample stretch in waist.
Typically, I look for a 32” waist and 31” inseam when referencing traditional measurement methods. In the past, I’ve worn a size medium, regular length DP3 pants and found the Heavyweight pants marginally tighter. That could possibly be due to the thicker fleece lining. They are plenty long, so I rolled them up twice with a 1” cuff. That kept some overlap with my shoes. At the waist, they sat just above my hip bones without feeling too snug. The tapered leg allows for room with a moderately large knee pad without risking catching in the chainring.
Typically, I look for a 32” waist and 31” inseam when referencing traditional measurement methods. In the past, I’ve worn a size medium, regular length DP3 pants and found the Heavyweight pants marginally tighter. That could possibly be due to the thicker fleece lining. They are plenty long, so I rolled them up twice with a 1” cuff. That kept some overlap with my shoes. At the waist, they sat just above my hip bones without feeling too snug. The tapered leg allows for room with a moderately large knee pad without risking catching in the chainring.
ENNEF Heavyweight Pant Details
• 4-way stretch, DWR coated material
• Fleece-lined
• Elastic waist belt
• Dual zippered thigh pockets
• Size: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
• Colors: Black only w/ white, black, or glow in the dark logo options
• Price: $190 USD
• ridenf.com
• 4-way stretch, DWR coated material
• Fleece-lined
• Elastic waist belt
• Dual zippered thigh pockets
• Size: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
• Colors: Black only w/ white, black, or glow in the dark logo options
• Price: $190 USD
• ridenf.com
At a price point of $190 USD, they align with other winter pants from competing brands. They're constructed from 94% polyester, 6% Spandex on the front and are 100% polyester at the back. In terms of colorways, the Heavyweight Pants only come in black, with three options for logo finishes; black, white, or glow in the dark. Free shipping is offered within North America too.
Ride Impressions
When I first pulled the Heavyweight Pants on, I instantly felt warm and cozy, ready for a blast through the severely slushy trails. The fleece lining is extremely comfortable and insulating. Be warned, thooug, these pants are ridiculously warm! If you’re busting out strenuous climbs in temperatures above 6 or 7 degrees Celsius (43 - 45° F), vents would be a huge asset to include in the construction. They also won’t keep you as dry as a pure waterproof pant either, but do a decent job when the DWR coating is still fresh.
For such a thick sandwich of material layers, there is very little bulk and the placement of the phone pocket holds your device tightly out of the way while you pedal. I did find that the upper thigh area was a bit restrictive while pedalling with my seat at full extension, despite the stretchy and durable materials.
Pros
+ Fleece liner keeps you toasty warm
+ Durable without being bulky
+ Long inseam and stretchy waistband can fit a variety of body types
Cons
- Lack of ventilation limits their functionality
- As a winter pant, a waterproof back rise and yoke would useful
- Slightly restrictive in the upper thigh and waist area while climbing
 | Even though I loved the comfort and warmth of the Heavyweight pants, they have a limited use case if you prefer pedalling at a steady pace, especially in a damp, coastal climate. I’d reserve these for primarily shuttling, catching chilly late-season bike park laps, or snowy fat bike rides where you can shed upper layers to moderate your body temperature more conveniently. |
Mountain biking is a tough sport to dress for. Riders operate at various body temperatures and demand different properties when battling the weather. ENNEF’s Mid-Weight Jacket is a reasonably priced and durable shell for cool weather conditions.
At $198 USD, the waterproofing is taken care of by a DWR coating and there are no underarm vents, so it’s not meant to compete against a more expensive Gore-Tex jacket. Instead, the same 4-way stretch material used in the DP3 pants doesn’t restrict movements and stands a better chance against abrasions.
At $198 USD, the waterproofing is taken care of by a DWR coating and there are no underarm vents, so it’s not meant to compete against a more expensive Gore-Tex jacket. Instead, the same 4-way stretch material used in the DP3 pants doesn’t restrict movements and stands a better chance against abrasions.
ENNEF Mid-Weight Jacket Details
• 4-way stretch, DWR coated material
• Two-way main body zipper
• Elastic, draw-string waist hem
• Tapered, arm cuffs
• One chest, two hand zippered pockets
• Colors: Black, Taupe, Fireweed
• Size: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
• Price: $198 USD
• ridenf.com
• 4-way stretch, DWR coated material
• Two-way main body zipper
• Elastic, draw-string waist hem
• Tapered, arm cuffs
• One chest, two hand zippered pockets
• Colors: Black, Taupe, Fireweed
• Size: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
• Price: $198 USD
• ridenf.com
The Mid-Weight Jacket is available in six sizes and three colors; black, taupe, and fireweed. I found the size medium to have a moderate arm length and generous room in the chest. The tapered cuffs run long on the top to keep water from running directly into your gloves or up the sleeves, but there are no velcro adjustments. Although the hood is just large enough to pull over a helmet, the only area that offers the ability to cinch up some of the excess material is at the waist hem via an elastic pull cord.
When fully zipped up, the collar does come in tight enough to keep cold air from funnelling down your neck without feeling claustrophobic. The Mid-Weight Jacket uses a two-way zipper on the body which makes staying covered up while removing muddy pants much easier. There's a single zippered chest pocket up top that fits a phone and two hands pockets at the sides.
Ride Impressions
After picking up the Mid-Weight jacket, I anticipated that it would breathe similarly to the DP3 pants that I’ve used before. Since there are no underarm vents or perforated panels, I chose to wear it on days where I primarily shuttled, times when I required more shielding from the spray rather than breathability to exhaust sweat from pedalling efforts.
What I appreciated most about the Mid-Weight Jacket was the extra length on the arm cuffs and stretch factor across the shoulder panel. The main zipper also doesn’t jam up with mud as easily as some of the tighter, waterproof options. In regards to the other zippers, if I were to choose their placement, I’d relocate two of them to the underarm area and increase the versatility of the jacket. The chest pocket is the perfect size for a phone, but is at an awkward angle to quickly access.
For my height and weight (76 kg / 178 cm) I also found the chest to be overly baggy. Even with the waist hem drawn in, I caught the jacket on my seat while descending a few times. Scaling down to size might be the best option here if you want an athletic fit, keeping in mind how stretchy and non-restrictive the material is.
Pros
+ Stretchy material doesn't restrict movements
+ Durability is higher than most waterproof options
Cons
- DWR waterproofing only goes so far
- Lack of vents and material type resists breathability
- Chest area is baggy
| Overall, I see the Mid-Weight Jacket as a decent option for riders who are looking for a locally crafted jacket that is best suited for descending. The breathability isn't ideal for high paced pedalling and the fit is looser than other riding jackets I've tried. |
Author Info:
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Purpose built for looking pretty darn cool (if you can fit into the sizing scheme) and Mushroom-lot shuttles on the December-February days when it isn't raining.
Thank you!
The top zipper pockets on the older DP3 pants were a little too small to be useful as hand pockets, which isn’t very critical for a bike piece anyway. I’ll sometimes put my hands in my pockets for warmth or just to keep from fidgeting or whatever when I’m off the bike, but whatever. Mostly I’d keep my car key in one pocket, and CO2 and my Dynaplug in the other on rides where I didn’t want to wear a waist pack.
The newer DP4 pants have open hand pockets, and they’re brilliant. They fit more, they work as hand pockets, and yet even without a closure, they keep your belongings secure, even when you have a ragdoll crash. Unquestionably the best piece of riding kit I’ve ever owned.
This review confirms what I’ve suspected about these pieces—the pants are ultra warm, and I just don’t ride in ultra cold temps. The jacket looks sharp, but I don’t have much use for a merely water resistant jacket.
However, with the location in mind- I do find it odd that these winter pieces aren't made with the realities of North Shore winters in mind (rain). I guess they didn't want to just remake a warmer version of the Berserker, but the jacket seems like more of a miss.
Riding in Australia=shorts all year round.
www.amazon.ca/TBMPOY-Softshell-Waterproof-Insulated-Athletic/dp/B07ZGFY73H?pd_rd_w=BcUK6&content-id=amzn1.sym.b2c3100b-4558-4ccc-9a75-7e42a77fc9f3&pf_rd_p=b2c3100b-4558-4ccc-9a75-7e42a77fc9f3&pf_rd_r=H30ZSZXQYA1WGDRVMK34&pd_rd_wg=qJ53u&pd_rd_r=e7d4a1ee-78fb-4c6a-ad2a-dccd42aef211&pd_rd_i=B07ZGFY73H&psc=1&ref_=pd_bap_d_csi_vtp_1_i
You don’t benefit directly doesn’t mean they don’t support the scene. They sponsor a bunch of riders and support downhill teams. I’m sure they do their fair share of trail work too.
www.ridenf.com/pages/the-riders