WRECKRD & RATED
THE BEST BIKES & MTB KIT GIVEN A THRASHING
65WINTER LAYERS BEST BASELAYERS & THERMAL JERSEYS TO KEEP YOU WARM & DRY ON CHILLY DAYS
60NEW PRODUCTS Jackets, helmets, bike racks & more
66LONGTERM RIDES The latest updates on our team bikes
72BIKETEST XC World Cup bikes go head to head
84GROUPTEST Winter riding shoes ridden & rated
WHY OUR TESTS ARE THE BEST!
Our technical-editor-in-chief Rob Weaver gets new products in as soon as they’re available and coordinates all the testing through our team of tech experts, who have unrivalled knowledge and experience. Every test starts with a detailed product check in the workshop. Next, we hit the trails… hard! We test in real riding conditions, incorporating feedback from multiple riders, and don’t stop until we have the complete picture, no matter how long it takes. Our testing is staunchly independent and not influenced by PR or advertisers (sometimes to their great discomfort). We’re never afraid to tell you the truth.
GOREWEAR GORE-TEX PACLITE MEN’S WATERPROOF JACKET £199.99 www.gorewear.com
GORE target this jacket at riders looking for reliable weather protection in a compact and lightweight package. It’s made from their two-layer ‘PACLITE Plus’ fabric – a GORE-TEX membrane laminated to a thin outer shell, with an abrasion-resistant treatment in place of an inner liner. Thanks to a pared-down build, it weighs just 216g and can be compressed to the size of a grapefruit. The PACLITE material has proven both waterproof and breathable, even in torrential downpours, impressing us with its non-sweatiness, despite the lack of any vents. We like the cut of the jacket, too, with its low back, arms that are long enough to cover glove cuffs but don’t overwhelm your hands, adjustable elastic hems and tall neck, which keeps cold breezes out. That said, a little more room across the shoulders would be appreciated. Also, the unstructured neck can make it tricky to unzip the jacket one-handed. The chest pocket is roomy enough for keys and a snack, while the rear pocket has ample room for a larger phone. Tom M
LEATT ENDURO 3.0 HELMET £249.99 www.hotlines-uk.com
The Enduro 3.0 is three helmets for the price of one. It can be worn as an open-face trail lid, a DH-certified full-face or
