From Lycra to Trail Bloom: Finding Confidence in Women’s MTB Clothing
Let’s face it — starting your mountain biking journey can be overwhelming. Once you’ve forked out for a bike, helmet and pads (which is hard enough), you’re hit with a wall of male-orientated kit, endless tech jargon, Velcro straps and silicone grips. It’s a minefield for any new female rider.
When I look back at what I used to wear on the trails, it makes me laugh. Coming from a road cycling background, I thought my leggings and Lycra would do the trick. Spoiler: they didn’t. I remember wearing padded leggings under some slightly longer running shorts with three stripes down the side, topped off with one of my husband’s jerseys that somehow managed to be both too big and ride up. I never felt out of place thanks to the welcoming women’s MTB community — but I definitely looked it.
A trip to Go Outdoors didn’t help much. Two women’s options that didn’t fit, so I grabbed some men’s shorts that were “fine” and a women’s jersey that pulled at my hips and dug into my arms. Fast forward three years of moaning about it with friends, and Trail Bloom was born. It took me a while to make the leap, but I knew I could design women’s mountain bike clothing that actually fit — and I did.
Now, two years in and planning our third winter range, I wanted to share a few tips to help you feel comfortable, confident and stylish on the bike. Because when you’re not distracted by digging waistbands or tops that ride up, you can just focus on the fun part — the ride.
1️⃣ The Right MTB Shorts Go a Long Way
A well-fitting pair of women’s MTB shorts is worth its weight in gold. Ours are made with four-way stretch fabric that’s naturally resistant to tears, and an elasticated waistband for all-day comfort. The best bit? The reactions we get from women trying them on for the first time — pure joy! They fit, they move, they flatter. Most don’t want to take them off. Keep an eye out… new colours are coming for summer.
2️⃣ Protect Your Peach 🍑
A good pair of padded (chamois) shorts is non-negotiable. Saddle sore is not something you want to experience. Our women’s chamois shorts are designed for comfort — no silicone, no digging, just a smooth, high-waisted fit that stays put all day. Pair them with our MTB shorts for the perfect combo on longer rides.
3️⃣ The Jersey That Actually Fits
Our mesh-back MTB jerseys are designed specifically for women — room in the bust and hips where you need it, gently shaped at the waist for a flattering fit. The breathable mesh keeps you cool on long climbs, especially if you wear a backpack. Available in a range of bold, feminine prints, including the new Monochrome Dash and Lilac Animal, there’s a style to suit every rider.
4️⃣ The Finishing Touch
Complete your kit with our Adventure Socks — 100% organic cotton, breathable, and available in colours to match your favourite jerseys. Simple, comfy, and perfect for year-round riding.
Everything in the Trail Bloom women’s mountain bike clothing range exists because I couldn’t find it elsewhere — the right fit, the right feel, the right design. So, I made it myself. Turns out, women all over the world felt the same.
So… what would you add to the range? 💭