The upper middle west is commonly known as a “fly-over” region for residents of the east and west coasts. While I take umbrage to this term, I do know we are often overlooked by companies and movie stars as a destination. For that reason, I was happy when Maloja Clothing Company reached out to see if Fat-Bike.com would be interested in sharing its clothing line with our readers.
Maloja’s website delves deep into its brand culture. They see Maloja as not a clothing line, but a lifestyle. With a home base in a converted farmhouse in the Bavarian Alps, Maloja Clothing offers its employees a uniquely beautiful work experience while encouraging their customers to see adventure while creating memories with friends and family.
Maloja is a well-established brand offering a wide variety of outdoor and active lifestyle clothing options. Most cycling disciplines are represented in their product line-MTB, road, gravel…even e-bikes get a nod. Maloja features apparel for winter sports, adventure lifestyle, yoga, and rock climbing. They are the signature clothing brand of the U.S. Biathlon Team so you know they will have us fat-bike riders covered for winter fun.
Fat-bike.com received samples from their spring gravel collection. Sure, they call this gravel wear, but I promise you these pieces are suitable for all types of cycling and look good off the bike, too.
AnderterM Jersey-$85
The AnderterM Jersey is a member of Maloja’s Hemp Dry collection. Hemp Dry is a fabric blend featuring 85% recycled polyester and 15% hemp. The fabric is tough and durable, yet soft to touch and quite comfortable. The loose-fitting jersey is available in an array of colors and a size running from XS-XL. My six-foot frame wears a medium comfortably.
The Hemp Dry fabric formula is featured across their clothing line for gravel and mountain bikers. The durability makes it great for shredders on the enduro end of the spectrum, while also a great choice for a gravel ride. Like merino, the Hemp Dry fabric is naturally anti-bacterial, so it is relatively odor-free and is quick to dry. Like most jerseys in this class, it fits like a t-shirt and there are no pockets on the rear.
GallasM Shorts-$99
To complement the AnderterM jersey are their GallasM shorts. Available in four color options and sizes XS-XXL, the GallasM shorts feature an ultra-lightweight fabric with great elasticity offering riders plenty of movement and comfort. Other features:
- Two front pockets with zippers to secure essentials
- Adjustable Velcro waistband to provide a perfect fit
- Water-resistant
- 30 CM inseam length
The four-way stretch fabric is triple stitched providing great durability without compromising comfort and fit.
Performance
I rode the Maloja AnderterM Jersey and GallasM shorts in the peak temperatures of June and July. I gave the combination a variety of terrain and riding experiences featuring multiple gravel rides, several single-track excursions, and riding my 12-mile commute to work.
Our sample jersey came in Moss. I really like the muted tones and it looks great with the Midnight Blue GallasM Shorts. The loose-fitting jersey is comfortable, but I found the Hemp Dry fabric to lack the elasticity of other tech-tops in this class. The AnderterM Jersey also felt a little heavy lacking the breathability of lighter weight fabrics for hot and humid summer days. I would recommend the AnderterM Jersey for temperatures below 80 degrees and will be a great jersey for spring and fall.
On the other hand, the GallasM short is perfect for hot summer days. The ultra-light, stretchy fabric felt great on and off the bike. The dark blue is a personal favorite. I also like the creative logo and graphics on these shorts. Take note that the GallasM short does not come with a liner. If you prefer more comfort, match the GallasM short with your favorite bibs or padded liner.
The AnderterM Jersey and GallasM Shorts are a great introduction to the Maloja product lineup. Their clothing line is extensive offering multiple bib shorts, padded liners, and several baggies. Given the price point and features of these two products, I would consider the GallasM short an entry-level setup.
Maloja offers something for every type of rider whether you like to focus on your fat or mountain bike, disappear on B-roads on your gravel bike, take a bike packing trip, or enjoy some tarmac on your road bike. Their smart and stylish designs will help you look great and perform well on the bike. Give Maloja a look if you are looking for a new brand to explore.
For more information visit – https://www.malojaclothing.com/
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