In seasons past, I’ve struggled to find women’s winter specific riding gear that ticks the boxes of warmth, fit, and function. After recently testing new winter mountain bike clothing from Fox Racing, I’ve been thoroughly impressed.
Founded in the world of motocross, Fox Racing ventured into other extreme sports in the late 2000s and their apparel is now just as common on the trails as other elite brands. While I haven’t been blown away by their gear in the past, due to inconsistent sizes and fits, their recent production has changed my mind.
Fox Women’s Ranger Tight
- Price: $169.95
- Available at Amazon
- Secure zip thigh pocket
- Secure overlapped pocket in rear waistband
- Durable knit mesh fabric at lower leg adds style and lots of breathability
- TruDri fabrics move sweat away from the body to keep you dry
- TruMotion all-way stretch fabric for increased mobility
- Inseam: 25″ size large
During the winter months the Fox Ranger Tight has become my favorite riding pant. With its flattering cut and TruMotion stretch, it performs just as well as it looks. The fit is true to size, and the waistband stays in place when I’m moving around on the bike. The abrasion resistant knee panels are a nice addition providing some protection without being too cumbersome.
Typically, I wear the Ranger Tight solo, but they do layer nicely under my favorite pair of baggies. They don’t include a chamois (which I’m personally okay with), but it’s something to keep in mind if you prefer that padding. Another downside is the size of the tiny thigh pocket. I can only comfortably fit a single key in it.
Fox Women’s Ranger Thermo Jersey
- Style and performance that works when the temperature drops
- TruDri™ fabrics move sweat away from the body to keep you dry and comfortable
- Natural wool blend jersey insulates, manages odor, and wicks moisture
- Split drop tail for mountain bike specific fit and coverage
- Zippered stash pocket on hip to store keys and cards
- Length (HPS): 27”
Jerseys are one article of clothing where I struggle with finding a perfect fit that’s not too tight nor too loose. Unless it’s from a women’s specific company, most jerseys look like they were taken from the men’s department and shrunken. They look unflattering and boxy. Thankfully, the Ranger Thermo long sleeve jersey ticks both my fit and functionality boxes. The fit is true to size, and its flattering shape is actually cut for a woman’s body. Since the fit isn’t too snug or too loose, I can comfortably wear a base layer underneath for the most frigid days.
Not only is this jersey flattering, it performs well on the trail to keep me warm on chilly rides while wicking away sweat. The drop tail in the back doesn’t ride up, ensuring my back isn’t exposed to the elements, while the wool blend is soft to the touch and doesn’t trap odors.
Fox Ranger Gel Glove
- Price: $35.95
- Available at Amazon
- Compression-molded cuff with hook and loop closure for secure fit
- Touch screen compatibility
- 4-way stretch polyester construction
- Absorbent sweat wipe on thumb
- TruGel strategically placed gel palm protection
- Silicone fingertip printing
- Hook & loop closure
I personally find gloves to be a tricky fit because they are too long in the fingers or too short when I size down. However, the ranger gel glove has become my go-to for chilly rides, with its fabric blend that molds to my hand and doesn’t inhibit my dexterity. It’s not an ideal glove if the temperature drops below 40° since there is no insulation like in other winter mtb gloves, but I can comfortably layer a surgical glove underneath to help retain heat without sacrificing movement. The gel padding provides the perfect cushioning for longer rides or park days to prohibit hand fatigue.
Fox Women’s Defend Wind Jacket
- Price: $84.95
- Available from Amazon
- Packable, ultra-lightweight, and water-resistant
- 50g Cordura™ Ripstop main body
- Durable Water Repellent finish sheds moisture, dirt, and debris
- Elastic cuff and hem
- Rider Attack Position patterning specific for MTB
- High-visibility reflective logos enhance visibility
- Packable into interior pocket (fits in most bike jersey back pockets)
Along with a hand pump, tube, and other trail essentials, the Defend Wind Jacket has become a must have in my pack. The jacket is lightweight and easily packs away without taking up too much room. Just like the other pieces of this kit, I am impressed with the fit. The jacket fits perfectly over top of the long sleeve jersey without being too tight even when zipped all the way up, and the elastic cuff and hem help keep the jacket in place so no wind nor debris sneak in while descending a trail.
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