Review: ENNEF Design's Cold Weather Kit

Jan 20, 2023
by Matt Beer  
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

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.
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

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



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



bigquotesEven 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. Matt Beer


ENNEF DESIGN CORP HEAVY WEIGHT PANTS MID-WEIGHT JACKET

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.
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

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



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




bigquotesOverall, 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. Matt Beer


Author Info:
mattbeer avatar

Member since Mar 16, 2001
360 articles

91 Comments
  • 50 4
 Winter gear with only a DWR treatment? Soaked through in a few minutes in an type of vancouver rain.
  • 5 1
 You do not need rain, just ride though snow or mud after snow has just melted. For me winter pants = no fleece and waterproof butt.
  • 2 0
 That Fireweed though
  • 6 2
 If you live where winter = truly cold, this product makes complete sense. If my original Berzerker pants ever die I would replace with these for fatbiking, where they just need to resist the odd splash but otherwise breathing well is incredibly important.
  • 1 0
 I think you’re supposed to buy a new set after each third ride.
  • 2 1
 totally agree, i dont get companies that make waterproof pants for downhill riding that cant properly wateropoof the rear panel, when 90% of a downhill lap is spent with your ass a couple of inches above the rear wheel, this is the most critical part of the pants to get right, i bought some fox pants and they were absolutely crap for staying dry,
  • 11 2
 @glenny-dee - Appreciate the comment. These pants are not intended to be nor are they advertised as "waterproof". These are designed to act more like a wetsuit; keeping you warm in the wettest and coldest conditions you can experience. The polarfleece wicks the water away so even though you may feel damp but you will be warm and your gear isn't going to feel "bagged out". Building "waterproof" pants requires a completely different approach and will increase costs significantly. Maybe something we will consider in the future but we are stoked on how these perform on the coldest days here on the shore Smile
  • 3 0
 ENNEF already.
  • 2 0
 @husstler: I have both, bezerker is a better pant and I think it breaths better
  • 26 2
 Who's ENNEF? Am I the only one who thought it was just NF?
  • 2 0
 Maybe trying to differentiate from the rapper NF?
  • 11 0
 You're ennef, bud. We believe in you and you matter Smile
  • 7 1
 Don't ride around in France with NF plastered all over you
  • 4 0
 @jenksy: awareness 100
  • 1 0
 @swansong: you deserve more upvotes for being wholesome.
  • 6 3
 NF is associated with the National Front in the UK from the 70s and 80s. Right wing neo nazi skinheads that had a racist agenda. Much like Trump supporters in the USA now.
  • 1 0
 @swansong: savagely underrated comment.
  • 6 0
 ENNEF is our legal name as we couldn't trademark "NF". Originally, NF stood for "NEEDS FACTORY" as the design philosophy is a minimalistic design with maximum performance.
  • 15 0
 @lev3000: We obviously do not associate with this and it is an unfortunate coincidence. It's nearly impossible to find a word or combination of letters that isn't trademarked or offensive to someone in 2023.
  • 2 6
flag lev3000 FL (Jan 21, 2023 at 11:33) (Below Threshold)
 @ennefdesign: I know that. It was just a cheeky excuse to have a go at Trump supporters. Im sure you understand
  • 11 1
 A solid, honest review. The details about fit are particularly useful- pants running so long and issues with finding that getting a jacket size that's long enough resulting in it being too wide/broad is all great info for buyers as well as good feedback for the manufacturer.

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!
  • 3 0
 At 6’5” I have yet to find riding pants too long…thankfully Ennef makes long inseam’s options.
  • 1 0
 @wobblegoblin: A "Reg" and "Long" inseam option might be good.
  • 2 0
 @Quinn-39: We offer this in our most popular pants the DP4's. For the Heavyweights and any other pants, we do offer extensions alterations (and hemming) to provide the optimal fit for all riders.
  • 1 0
 @ennefdesign: That's awesome, great idea. Would be a helpful addendum in the review.
  • 8 2
 Love my NF pants. So stretchy and light. The only critique I have is the pockets. The two top pockets are too small for a phone and the thigh pocket for your cell phone is on your right leg. Lots of people put their phones in their left pocket. In fact why not just make two regular pockets, same left and right like regular pants? Still love the pants though
  • 4 0
 Agreed. Excellent pants with silly pockets.
  • 8 4
 The phone pocket on their pants is the best I’ve ever used. Can’t think of a reason why which side it’s on makes one bit of difference. I‘ve had pieces with both, and it doesn’t matter to me at all.

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.
  • 2 0
 The newer versions have 4 pockets and solves the issue. I do agree...the little pockets are pretty silly. I like the way DHARCO does the waist band pocket in the back...
  • 4 0
 @BrambleLee: wow you’re correct. I just looked my dp3’s have the pockets I dislike but the dp4’s have good regular pockets. Happy for the evolution! Anyhow, love the products and even happier to support a good local brand!
  • 1 0
 Odd. The pocket sizes and location are ideal for me. Adding a second phone style pocket on the left would be a welcomed addition, but my DP3 pants are already one of my favourite clothing items I own.
  • 7 0
 We made big upgrades to the pockets from the DP3 to the DP4. Large hand pockets that securely hold your phone without the need for zippers. We offer one zipped pocket on the right side. We opted for 1 as to not add more layers of fabric making them warmer.
  • 1 0
 @ennefdesign: I picked up a pair of dp4! Pockets are awesome. Thanks!
  • 2 0
 As others have stated, the pockets on the DP4 are perfect. Love those pantsSmile would love to see them offer a light packable jacket for spring/summer
  • 7 0
 I love my NF pants but I don't see the point of this jacket. Winter PNW drizzle is easily dealt with using a DWR wind breaker with marino wool base. Proper rain you need a real rain jacket.
  • 2 2
 When did 200 bucks become budget? You can surely find a goretex jacket on sale for less
  • 9 0
 There's more than Enneff materials to get you covered!
  • 6 0
 Ok. To me winter means below freezing. Let’s say 0 to minus 20 C. The word rain should not come into it. In those cases waterproof often is worse. All your sweat is kept in.
  • 1 1
 It doesn't get down that cold too often here on the North Shore where these are designed/made.

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.
  • 2 1
 @Quinn-39: agreed. For the cold stuff I recommend 45nrth. All their products are well made
  • 1 0
 @dldewar: Used to sell a lot of their gear when I lived in Ontario. A few Fasterkatt warrantees (delicate zippers on a tight fitting boot are a BAD idea), but other than that it was solid stuff for sure.
  • 2 0
 @Quinn-39: Agreed - there first gen stuff was not as good. Had the gen 1 big boots - zipper had issues too.
  • 2 0
 @Quinn-39: this jacket is a mud shell designed to live in your trunk. Lots of other brands out there making the gore-tex hard shells you speak of. We wanted a basic versatile jacket you can thrash and this is exactly that.
  • 5 0
 I wish they would make a lighter weight pant. I find the DP3 too stuffy. Great pants but I only wear it during cool weather.
  • 3 0
 I find them perfect for zero to about 12 degrees. Which is exactly the weather I bought them for.
  • 2 1
 Check out the Nukeproof ones... they are a nice light weight compared with the DP3s. Half the price too.
  • 5 0
 @Kango Appreciate the feedback! The DP3/DP4 is meant to be able to cover the widest range of conditions. That being said we also wanted a light weight pant so we can wear pants all year round. I think you will be pleasantly surprised if you keep an eye on our page in March!!
  • 5 0
 Had my DP3 pants for 2 years now Still going strong...
  • 2 0
 @Trowel1 Love to hear it!
  • 2 0
 @ennefdesign: The shorts & T to...
  • 1 0
 I own a long NF pant and two shorts. The only complaint I have about the pants is that, as the reviewer noted, they lack any ventilation and are unusable during summer. The shorts are stretchy and fit very well, you forget they are there.
  • 6 2
 baggy chest area? you got the womens version bud
  • 5 1
 I'd be careful of 'NF' in the UK
  • 5 2
 Came for the review. Stoked to buy a different jacket.
  • 2 1
 Side zips would helpful for getting knee pads on/ off at the trail head as these are designed for wearing pads underneath i believe.
  • 1 0
 My Berserker ENNEF winter pants squeak super loud when wet and pedalling. That’s my only gripe, otherwise they’re tough and functional.
  • 1 0
 @Coastalbee the heavyweights are squeak free!
  • 3 0
 thooug
  • 3 1
 190dollars lol... bankroute
  • 1 0
 i'm sure that North Face has sent a letter or two their way, that's why youre seeing ENNEF now
  • 1 0
 if the jacket had endura waterproof coating and pit zips then i would get it
  • 1 0
 For those (at least in Europe) looking for a cheaper alternative to those pants, take a look at the Decathlon ST500 ones
  • 1 1
 Good review. Agreed that for these prices, a WP membrane and better breathability should be implemented.
  • 1 0
 Baggy in the chest!?! Sounds like you need to hit the pec deck!
  • 2 0
 Be warned, if you work out mtb clothes will never fit you.
  • 1 0
 @RonSauce: haha ain’t that the truth!
  • 1 0
 I’ve had ENNEF of the cold!
  • 1 0
 Ha ,winter riding gear!
Riding in Australia=shorts all year round.
  • 3 3
 Ennef is ennef with these insane high prices !
  • 1 0
 Eneff is eneff!
  • 5 6
 NF is NEVER in stock. I finally quit looking.
  • 11 0
 They literally have stock of almost everything right now....not sure what more you are wanting.
  • 4 0
 Those days are over... now all the companies have a lot of stock and the stores even more!
  • 2 0
 Then you missed the sale. Got mine for a great price in November.
  • 3 0
 You can get on their mailing list, which helps
  • 7 0
 @cky78 Producing all of our gear in Canada provides a unique set of issues. It has taken time to partner with factories around Vancouver and we chose to do it slowly to insure quality control. We have now reached a comfortable level and are able to keep most "core" gear in stock at all times. Fully stocked at the moment and some exciting new things on the way!
  • 1 0
 @ennefdesign: Thank you for the reply. I wish you, and your company big things this year, and beyond!
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