Reviewed by Kay Levesque
Shredly Beyond Tech Cargo Long Sleeve in Mimi II size L
I tested out the Shredly Beyond Tech Cargo Long Sleeve jersey here in my new stomping grounds, the Pacific Northwest! Yes, I moved away from my beloved Fruita, Colorado, to be closer to family and to ride the awesome trails of Bellingham, Washington. Galbraith, y’all. It’s amazing. But back to the jersey. Shredly’s Beyond Tech Collection features bonded seams and four-way stretch fabric with cooling and antimicrobial characteristics. Bonded seams are similar to taped seams–nothing itchy or grabby, just a smooth seam. The construction of the seams appears very durable and classy.
Regarding cooling, I do like long sleeves for sun protection, but sometimes I overheat. I did notice that this jersey has a cooling effect. I don’t know the magic, but I felt it! You probably won’t choose this jersey on a hot day, but come fall, it’ll be ideal. Made from a poly/spandex blend, the jersey sports three drop-in pockets on the back as well as thumb loops. I think I’ve mentioned I don’t always love thumb loops because they are usually a bit short. These thumb loops are generous enough to work.
The back pockets are not generous, but honestly, how much do you want back there pulling down on your shirt? The pockets are large enough for a snack, maybe a phone, a lip balm–that’s all I ever carry besides water. I tested the jersey in a size large, which ended up being a little baggy on me in a way that I like. If you choose a size with a more snug fit, I’m guessing the items in your pockets would be held closer to your body and wouldn’t weigh down the shirt. Choose the size that works for your needs. I like a loose fit, so the large worked for me.
What I love most about this jersey is the fabric design. Off the hook, festive colors, flowers, and botanical suggestions. It’s truly beautiful, and it makes me smile even when it’s just hanging out in my drawer. The jersey also comes in a purple/pink Ombre. Also note that Shredly has a capsule collection aimed to address the needs of all cyclists in all bodies of all sizes, so you’ll find size XL, 2X, and 3X. Nobody should be excluded. Thank you, Shredly!
Shredly Biker Cham in Star Dust Shimmer size L
These shorts. Oh my. I love bling, and these are BLING! Super soft but shimmery! I can’t even begin to describe how much I love the shimmer of these shorts. Beautiful. But the details are amazing too.
Scalloped edges that might peek out of your baggies, or forget the baggies and let the shimmer shine! Leg grips that don’t overdo it but provide just enough grab.
The shorts have two pockets big enough for a phone or snack, which I very much appreciate. I didn’t notice the chamois pad, which is what you’re aiming for–a pad that does its job and no more. Protect me, but please don’t bother me. I will also attest that the shorts are quick drying. Washington might have a tad more humidity than Fruita, Colorado….
My only criticism of these shorts is that the waistband is cut straight, not any narrower than the hip part of the shorts, so the fit around the waist is not very snug. It’s not a problem while riding–the shorts don’t fall down or anything–but I would like a little bit more snug around my waist.
Bottom Line
In my mind, your riding clothing should be functional, and these Shredly items are exactly that. Breathable and durable with valuable features. For me, though, I also like my riding clothing to make me smile, to make me want to get out so that I can wear my cute outfit. The Shredly Biker Cham and Cargo Long Sleeve jersey does that for me–motivates me, gives me a grin, makes me want to call my girlfriends up to go for a ride. That’s what makes women different from men (in general). We like a cute factor too.
A little background about the company
Female-founded, owned, and operated, Shredly was one of the first companies to cater to women’s cycling clothing. They were revolutionary in that regard–combining fashion and function for women who love to mountain bike. Mountain biking baggies (that aren’t overly baggy) with pockets! Fabulously stylish fabrics that stretch and move with you on the trail. Abrasion-resistant, sturdy materials. 93% of Shredly items are made using recycled materials. They’ve also created what they call EcoFab, which is a fabric blended from recycled and natural fibers. According to founder Ashley Rankin, “the blend of chosen fibers gives us great properties like moisture management, breathability, antimicrobial odor resistance, wrinkle resistance, and an extremely soft hand.”