When I was asked if I would like to test an Oakley outfit, my answer was of course “yes”! After receiving my helmet, 3 jerseys, shorts and socks, I headed straight for my home trails.
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Pretty clever – the MTB helmet
The matte black version of the Oakley DRT5 MTB helmet looks great and is, of course, equipped with MIPS. The first thing that caught my eye was the very useful goggle holder on the back of the helmet. I tried it out straight away when I unpacked the helmet – the goggles were held firmly in place. However, I was quite startled when I looked inside the helmet and found only a small pad on the top and a silicone pad on the forehead. My first thought was: this surely cannot be comfortable! I was proved wrong.´ I tried the helmet on straight away – the practical BOA fastener means the helmet sits perfectly on my head. Even after several hours, I had no pain from pressure. The best detail, in my eyes, is the silicone padding on the forehead, because it transports the sweat away to the sides so that it doesn’t run into the eyes on hot days, as is usually the case.
Eye-catching and comfortable – the MTB jerseys
Look-wise, the three Oakley trail jerseys Pipeline, Cascade and Switchback are designed in a rather plain style, although the “Oakley Factory Pilot” graphics are a real eye-catcher. The jerseys feature a mesh panel at the back for good ventilation. I have tested all of them extensively on tours and am really excited about the comfortable, breathable Hydrolix fabric. Putting in plain words: “I wasn’t soaking wet from sweat in any situation”. Moisture is transported well to the exterior and the garment is comfortable to wear even on longer outings. A cool feature is the hidden pocket at the back of the jerseys, where a mobile phone or a bar can easily be stored. That’s particularly handy if you’re only going for a short ride and don’t want to take a backpack with you.”Hats off” to the manufacturer for thinking of it. What’s more, the fit of all the jerseys is loose and comfortable.
Almost perfect – the MTB shorts
The Oakley Arroyo Trail MTB shorts are simple and ultra-light and come with a couple of cool and very sensible details. The classic Oakley logo anti-slip waistband, for example, is very useful. The closure system has a double press-stud fastener that really stays closed, something that is not necessarily the case with other shorts. I also like the adjustable velcro tabs on the waistband, allowing for a perfect fit. They are ideal in terms of length and width, so that knee protectors can easily be worn underneath. The shorts have only one pocket, which I find a little insufficient, but that’s just a little complaint.
Everything under control – the gloves
The look of Oakley‘s warm weather gloves absolutely speaks to me. I just love the Oakley Factory Pilot logo. The material also feels very comfortable and offers great grip on the handlebars. Another advantage is that you can use your mobile phone perfectly with the gloves. At first, I was irritated by the holes between the fingers, but after I found out more, I got enthusiastic: these holes are designed to keep your hands constantly ventilated while you’re riding!
My verdict on the Oakley trail outfit
Let’s start at the top. The Oakley DRT5 MIPS is a super comfy trail helmet offering top value for money for the features provided. The long-sleeved and short-sleeved jerseys have a great fit and ventilation. And the Oakley Factory Pilot logo looks really cool! The trail shorts are definitely classic touring shorts that I wouldn’t necessarily wear for bike park rides, but then, that’s not what they’re meant for. I would be totally satisfied with them if they had an additional side pocket. I am totally impressed by the gloves with their great touchscreen usability, but I would like to see a Velcro fastener on the next version. And for those who want to really complete the outfit, the Oakley socks are definitely a must!
