PEARL iZUMi 2023 Holiday Gift Guide

by Brian Mullin on November 11, 2023

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Expedition Alpha Jacket

The Expedition Alpha takes the top step in delivering dynamic, thermoregulating protection against cold on the bike. Quilted panels of Polartec Alpha Direct provide targeted insulation in the areas where riders feel the coldest: the shoulders, chest, and upper arms. DWR-treated windproof ripstop composes the jacket’s exterior, and the insulation-free back and side panels allow excess heat to escape, so you stay in your comfort zone. A silicone hemline grip and encased elastic cuffs combine for a draft-free ride. Whether rolling out the fat bike or needing extra warmth for nights spent bikepacking, the Expedition Alpha provides light, capable protection for the adventure-minded rider. Even better, it’s made with upcycled materials.

Impressions => The Expedition Alpha is light, compact, and packable. Its design offers highly functional attributes, combining an entire zip front, nylon body, and Polartec insulation in strategic cold zones, including the chest, upper arms, and shoulders. It also features elastic cuffs and a high collar for draft protection. It offers incredible warmth, wind protection, and heat venting properties for a lightweight design.

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  • Super-light Ripstop Nylon shell fabric for wind protection
  • Polartec Alpha Direct insulation placed in vital cold zones: chest, upper arms, and shoulders
  • PFC-free, Durable, Water Repellent treatment sheds light precipitation
  • Front zip hand pockets that double as vents
  • BioViz reflective elements for low-light visibility
  • Made with Upcycled materials
  • Standard fit
  • [Men’s | Women’s] – $175.00

Purchase the Men’s Expedition Alpha Jacket 

Purchase the Women’s Expedition Alpha Jacket

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AmFIB Evo Lobster Glove

Spawned from the rugged winters in Colorado, the split two-and-two-finger design of the original Lobster Glove brought cyclists an unrivaled solution to riding in the coldest conditions: the warmth of a mitten and the control of a glove. At that time, road shifters were still on the downtube, and before the advent of hydraulic brakes, trail riders didn’t dare pull the reins with less than two fingers. Today, the tap of a button shifts gears, disc brakes are easily feathered with one finger, and most riders carry some form of touchscreen technology.

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In this latest iteration, the index and middle fingers are separated to provide more dexterity and device compatibility, while the mitten-like grouping of the ring and pinkie remains intact. 170g of PrimaLoft Gold insulation with Cross Core technology paired with AmFIB softshell continues to provide incredible warmth and wind protection with minimal bulk. Still true to its original purpose, the Lobster Evo will help you adapt and thrive in deep winter.

Thoughts => Their predecessor, the AmFIB Lobster Gel Glove, was one of my favorites for those cold days when you don’t need the full-on pogies or ski gloves. The new design separates the index and middle fingers for additional dexterity, control, and shifter/brake lever access. Call them mittens with fingers!

  • AmFIB Softshell main body fabric protects from wind and water
  • 170g PrimaLoft Gold w/Cross Core technology insulation is made from 35% post-consumer recycled polyester and incorporates Aerogel particles for maximum warmth with minimal bulk
  • Ax Suede Laredo synthetic leather palm for durability and excellent grip
  • Touch screen compatible
  • $95.00

Purchase the AmFIB Lobster Evo Gloves 

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Summit PRO NeoShell WxB Jacket

The Men’s PRO Neoshell® WxB Jacket is available in road ($325) and mountain bike ($375) styles. The jacket’s advanced membrane construction allows constant air exchange while providing complete 20K/20K waterproof protection.

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Wearing a rain jacket during a high-intensity effort like trail riding is usually a mixed bag. It may keep you from getting soaked, but copious venting is needed to avoid a humid microclimate, which can quickly turn clammy. The Summit PRO NeoShell Jacket is the first rain jacket to deliver all-day mountain biking comfort. It’s built using a membrane that can move a basketball-sized volume of air from the jacket every minute; it’s the world’s most breathable waterproof material. This unrivaled level of moisture transfer manages body temps and keeps you dry like never before. But it’s not just about the breathability. Stretch fabric allows for dynamic movement, and the woven fabric improves durability. They designed the hood to fit over your helmet so you can ride through whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

Impressions => When you need a heavier-duty waterproof hooded jacket for mountain biking, look no further than the Summit PRO NeoShell. The Polartec NeoShell fabric offers excellent waterproof characteristics and highly functional breathability, making it perfect for high-output riding. Yet, it keeps you dry and warm when you pedal slowly or hang out for a break. It works nicely over a helmet, and the cut provides enough maneuverability without overt bagginess. It features zippered pockets and is small enough to be packable. The jacket kept me warm and dry this past season in some ugly, wet, and snowy conditions.

  • Polartec NeoShell for unrivaled waterproof breathability
  • Stretch fabric and articulated sleeves for a great fit while riding
  • A hood-over-helmet design
  • PFC-free, Durable, Water Repellent treatment sheds light precipitation
  • YKK Aquaguard waterproof zippers on main and pockets
  • Packable to fit in a hydration pack
  • Relaxed fit
  • Men’s only – $375

Click here to buy the MTB PRO Neoshell WxB Jacket

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Summit Shell Shorts

It doesn’t matter if you’re heading out for an after-work hot lap or gearing up for an all-day epic; the Summit Short is the right choice for every trail. These premium shorts feature a tailored fit with your favorite knee guards. Perforated panels on the inside of the legs keep the Summit feeling airy, while dual Trail Access pockets keep the day’s essentials close at hand yet out of the way, so they don’t interfere with pedaling. Add your favorite chamois liner, and you’re ready to hit the dirt.

Impressions => The Summit Shell Shorts are light, airy, and perfect for short and long rides, especially on warmer days. The inner perforated panels allow for lots of ventilation and comfort, porting air where needed. Even with their slightly tighter fit, they still offer plenty of room and easily fit knee pads if desired, and I always wore them over chamois bibs without any issues. The zippered side pockets offered plenty of storage, while the front zipper and waist closure system provided plenty of adjustability.

  • Pedal to Zero: Going by bike 17mi / 27km offsets the climate impact of this garment
  • Constructed from lightweight, fast-drying polyester fabric made from recycled material
  • Adjustable waist closure for easy on-the-fly adjustments
  • Two zippered Trail Access side pockets shift contents to the back of the leg for pedaling comfort
  • Kneepad compatible
  • Add a chamois liner of your choice to complete the package
  • Standard fit
  • 12.5″ inseam

Click here to purchase the Men’s Summit Shorts

Click here to buy the Women’s Summit Shorts

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Summit Pants

Some rides call for extra protection from the elements or trail flora—that’s where their new Summit Pant comes in. This summer-weight pant is designed with mobility and pedaling performance in mind. It’s constructed from the same light and durable woven fabric as their premium Summit Short, with a DWR coating to shrug off moisture. Perforated panels on the inside of the legs keep these pants feeling airy, while dual Trail Access pockets hold the day’s essentials within reach but out of the way. Add your favorite chamois liner and hit the dirt.

Impressions => First off, I must say that the Summit Pants are super comfy, and I have been mostly wearing them for everyday lifestyle apparel. For bike riding, the elastic cuff keeps them away from any drivetrain interference, while the generous cut offers excellent mobility. There are perforated panels inside the legs for ventilation, functional zippered pockets, and some light water repellency, which worked ideally when it spit some light rain.

  • Pedal to Zero: Going by bike 24mi / 38km offsets the climate impact of this garment
  • Adjustable waist closure
  • Durable water repellent (DWR) coating
  • Two zippered Trail Access side pockets shift contents to the back of the leg for pedaling comfort
  • Compatible with most knee protection
  • Standard fit
  • 33″ inseam
  • Shipped rolled to reduce plastic packaging, wash to remove wrinkling

Click here to purchase the Summit Pants

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Summit Barrier Jacket

Ultra-minimalist, ultra-packable, this is your insurance policy against unpredictable weather. The Summit Barrier Jacket packs to the size of a baseball, allowing you to carry it on any ride. The lightweight fabric is windproof with a PFC-free DWR coating that sheds moisture and is made from recycled materials. The zippered chest pocket is a stash pocket, and the hood fits nicely under a helmet. A two-way zipper lets you regulate your temperature without stopping and switching layers.

Impressions => The Summit Barrier Jacket offers wind resistance and water repellency in a compact and packable design. The fabric provides enough warmth and durability, while the hood offers additional heat retention. The jacket features a full-length covered front zipper for ventilation purposes, making it easy to regulate the temperature. The jacket comes in more subdued colors since the tested Lime Zinger Origin is wild.

  • Pedal to Zero: Going by bike 16mi / 26km offsets the climate impact of this garment
  • Ultra-packable weather protection for every ride
  • PFC-free, Durable, Water Repellent treatment sheds light precipitation
  • A zippered chest pocket acts as a stash pocket
  • Under the helmet hood
  • Reflective elements for low-light visibility
  • Relaxed fit

Click here to purchase the Summit Barrier Jacket

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Summit Pro Glove

This mountain bike glove is designed with rowdy riding in mind. The outer knuckles feature flexible TPR armor to defend against brush, while the ultra-slim Clarino palm provides excellent tactile feedback with laser perforations to keep you cool. Silicone grippers on the thumb, index, and middle fingers provide confident shift and brake control in all conditions. Plus, touchscreen compatibility makes it easy to share the stoke.

Impressions => The Summit PRO Glove offers an excellent combination of thinness for dexterity and robustness for durability. It has light armor to protect the knuckles, a thin Clarino palm for tactual, and silicone grippers on the fingers to control levers. Even though they fit snugly, the cuff’s hook and loop closure system makes them easy to take on and off.

  • TPR armor on the outer knuckles
  • Touchscreen compatible
  • Perforated synthetic Clarino leather palm
  • Hook and loop closure on the cuff
  • Sweat wipe on the thumb

Click here to buy the Summit Pro Glove

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Expedition Pro Bib Short

Made for the rider who aims to go astray, the Expedition Bib Short is tuned for all-terrain adventures. When you hit the rough stuff, you’ll be glad to have their new Levitate Plus multi-density chamois under you, with an innovative, highly resilient suspension core to damp road chatter and significantly improve ride comfort.

These bib shorts are designed for rugged gravel or tarmac that stretches to the horizon. They took the popular Expedition Bib to the next level with their all-new Levitate PRO Chamois and luxurious Italian PRO Transfer fabric. Low-profile cargo pockets on the thighs and two small rear pockets provide easy access to smartphones and snacks and the flexibility to wear any top without worrying about carrying capacity. Last but certainly not least, this is their first men’s bib short with a drop-tail to make nature breaks quick and easy. They added their water-shedding PI Dry technology to the shorts to shrug off tire spray and light rain. There is no finer choice for a long-haul adventure.

Impressions => The Expedition Bib Short is uber comfy, with just the right amount of compression and tightness. The Chamois pad is comfortable and offers all-day plushness without any hot spots. The bib straps are wide and supple for security and comfort, and they don’t dig into your shoulders. The fabric has been durable and provides just enough water repellency when things get damp. I liked the simple thigh pocket, perfect for a snack, rag, or small sundry item. 

  • Pedal to Zero: Going by bike 18mi / 29km offsets the climate impact of this garment
  • Luxurious Italian PRO Transfer fabric balances compression for ultimate comfort
  • New Men’s Levitate PRO Chamois pad with triple-density design delivers unmatched support.
  • Drop-tail design for nature breaks
  • Laser-cut bib straps for superior next-to-skin comfort
  • Thigh cargo pockets provide additional storage options
  • A dual rear pocket at the base of the straps fits lip balm or a credit card
  • Laser-cut raw edge leg hem construction for a seamless transition to skin
  • PI Dry technology for permanent water-shedding performance
  • 10.5″ inseam
  • Men’s/Women’s MSRP $265

Click here to buy the Men’s Expedition Pro Bib Short

Click here to buy the Women’s Expedition Pro Bib Short

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AmFIB Lite Cycling Bib Tights

This lighter-weight version of our legendary AmFIB tight is perfect for brisk spring and fall rides. We use three-quarter length AmFIB panels over the thighs and knees for weather protection where it matters most. Raw-edge bib straps reduce layering bulk and improve comfort. PI Dry permanent water-repellent technology sheds precipitation and helps keep the dual-density Levitate Plus chamois dry. BioViz reflective elements appear on the back of the calves, high enough for visibility above any shoe covers or booties, as well as on the hip.

Thoughts => Warm, light, and comfortable. The AmFIB Lite Tight Bibs have enough coverage and insulation on brisk days, providing warmth without overheating on cusp days. When it spits snow, the water-repellency works like a charm. The Levitate Plus chamois offers plenty of padding for long rides in the saddle. They have a just perfect snug enough fit without being overly tight or too compressive, and the high back and waist offer additional warmth and protection from errant drafts.

  • Pedal to Zero: Going by bike 29mi / 47km offsets the climate impact of this garment
  • Strategically placed ultra-soft AmFIB softshell fabric panels protect from wind and water.
  • Made with recycled content
  • Brushed thermal fleece lining
  • Dual-density Levitate Plus chamois pad reduces friction for all-day comfort.
  • PI Dry technology for permanent water-shedding performance
  • BioViz reflective elements for low-light visibility

Click here to buy the AmFIB Lite Cycling Bib Tights

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Expedition PRO

The new Expedition PRO ($260) gravel shoe perfectly blends lightweight road shoe materials with mountain bike protective elements. The Expedition PRO will replace the GravelX shoe with an improved fit and innovative features.

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Improvements include the BOA Fit System with dual L6C dials, soft lace guides, a dual-density 1:1® footbed, carbon sole with TPU toe, heel bumpers, and a stomp plate. The wide-spaced tread provides optimal grip and sheds mud for adventures on and off the bike. The Expedition PRO is offered in unisex sizing and ranges from sizes 39-49, with half sizes from 42.5-46.5.

Impressions => The Expedition PRO shoe is lightweight, stiff, comfortable, and durable, making it the ideal choice for gravel and mountain bike riding. Call it a combo of road, gravel, and mtb, with functional/specific attributes of each. They offer excellent power to the pedals, with purposeful stiffness and enough flex for walking/hiking. The sole provides some grip and tread for various terrains, and the open lug design won’t retain mud.

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  • BOA Fit System with L6E Reel and forefoot strap for zonal fit adjustments
  • Soft TX lace guides eliminate pressure and hotspots
  • 2-bolt SPD cleat compatible
  • 1:1 Next Step Nylon composite sole does what no other can: delivers uncompromising pedaling performance and confident off-the-bike hike-ability
  • Reinforced toe bumper for added durability and protection
  • TPU lugs deliver off-the-bike confidence

Click here to purchase the Expedition PRO

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Expedition

They also sell the more affordable Expedition Shoe with a single BOA dial and a $160 price point.

Equally at home on gravel roads or cross-country trails, the Expedition is ready for your next dirt mission. The heavily perforated synthetic leather upper uses bonded construction to give this shoe a comfortable fit and excellent ventilation. A BOA Fit System with L6E reel provides quick, appropriate adjustments through the midfoot, while a strap provides set-and-forget independent adjustment at the forefoot. An integrated EVA insert at the heel offers noticeable vibration damping to reduce fatigue for more comfort on longer rides over rough roads.

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