Men’s Gravel Cycling Clothing

Gravel riding often involves lower speeds and higher exertion on rougher terrain, which changes the requirements for your kit. While road gear prioritises aerodynamics, our gravel-specific Explore collection focuses on durability and storage. You’ll find tougher, abrasion-resistant fabrics that can withstand the occasional brush with a hedgerow, and more relaxed "regular" fits that allow for better airflow and off-bike comfort. Additionally, gravel gear often features earth tones and subtle styling that transitions better to a café or campsite than high-vis race wear.

When you’re out for multiple days, you need kit that stays fresh. The Explore Merino T-shirt is a favourite for gravel adventures because merino wool is naturally antibacterial and odour-resistant. Unlike synthetic fabrics that can smell after one hard climb, merino can be worn for several days in a row. It also regulates temperature exceptionally well, keeping you cool in the heat and warm when damp. This makes it a far more versatile and "packable" solution for riders who want to carry less gear on their bike.

Standard road shoes are designed solely for pedalling, with stiff, slick soles that are nearly impossible to walk in. Our gravel shoes, such as the Explore Powerweave, feature a carbon footplate for power transfer but are wrapped in a high-traction rubber outsole. This provides the grip you need for "hike-a-bike" sections or walking over loose terrain. They also use a two-bolt cleat system (SPD) which is recessed into the sole, protecting the cleat from mud and allowing for a much more natural walking gait when you step off the pedals.

If your gravel ride involves early starts, late finishes, or overnight stops, a packable insulation layer is vital. The Explore Down Jacket is designed to be exceptionally lightweight and compresses down to the size of a water bottle, fitting easily into a bar bag or seat pack. It uses ethically sourced down to provide instant warmth during a summit break or while setting up camp. Having a dedicated "static" warmth layer ensures you don't catch a chill when you stop moving, making it an essential piece of safety equipment for remote adventures.

While we recommend a proper machine wash at 30°C when you return home, our Explore garments, especially the Merino and technical synthetics, are designed for the realities of life on the trail. They are quick-drying and resilient. If you’re on a multi-day trip, a quick rinse in fresh water and hanging the kit over your handlebars or a tent line overnight is often enough to reset the fabric. Because the materials are high-gauge and durable, they can handle the maintenance that comes with self-supported travel.