Melbourne-based cycling brand MAAP has launched a range of kit across its Alt_Road collection designed for bikepacking and gravel - or, as MAAP put it, "riders seeking alternative paths".
We're big fans of MAAP here and the Alt_Road range is for our money some of the best gravel/bikepacking kit around right now. So it's always exciting when fresh gear lands - especially when MAAP say it's designed with wilder exploration in mind.
"Helping inspire riders to venture off grid in pursuit of Mother Nature's wild and natural spaces since 2021, MAAP's Alt_Road collection has continued to evolve and adapt each year, with this latest introduction further elevating an already accomplished collection," say MAAP.
"Highlights include the new Alt_Road Cargo Bib 2.0 which features an updated cut and fit, paired with an introduction of new lightweight yet durable fabrics for enhanced performance and specifically engineered off-grid chamois for elevated support and comfort.
"The Alt_Road jersey has been enhanced for version 3.0 thanks to a lighter, airy merino fabric whilst embedding hydrophilic properties for improved moisture management. The result is a high performing mid-layer garment that performs effortlessly under pressure."
Featuring low-volume Teijn Octa insulation, the vest and jacket are designed to provide thermo-regulation beneath a wind-resistance shell for comfort on and off the bike during cold weather exploration.
A new, lightweight WMNS Alt_Road Crop Tee and the Alt_Road LS Mesh Tee with zip stash pockets complete the collection.
Alt_Road Cargo Bib 2.0: £240
With the updated Alt_Road Cargo Bib 2.0 MAAP has taken everything that made the original so popular and refined it to create the next generation of Cargo Bibs. Ready for everything from singletrack gravel shredding to multi-day off-grid epics.
Comfort has been placed at the forefront of the redesign, with a new, ergonomically engineered off-road specific chamois. The updated chamois retains the same layout and thickness as MAAP's other bibs but uses a foam that has higher density offering greater shock absorption and also much improved resistance to chamois fatigue (the chamois foam compressing) over the course of a ride.
The cut and materials of the shorts have also been updated based on extensive testing and user feedback, with the inner seam altered to eliminate the chance of rubbing on frame bags.
A slightly less compressive overall fit has been chosen to offer greater all day comfort both on and off the bike while two different types of fabric have been used to balance durability, comfort and aesthetics.
Our first pair of the Alt_Road bib shorts got shredded in the seat during the GranGuanche Gravel Audax, and while the replacements issued by MAAP are holding up well it's reassuring to see they have updated this area in the new version.
"The central panel that meets the saddle uses a more durable, circular knit fabric more able to resist abrasion from grit and dirt particles while side panels use a more compressive 3D textured woven knit fabric that ensures a close fit without being overly restrictive," say MAAP.
The revsed shorts also feature three separate cargo pockets: a high-volume centre pocket perfect for larger items sits behind two smaller overlapping zippered pockets for secure storage of smaller valuables. As well as this, the Alt_Road Cargo Bib 2.0 features two vertical entry leg pockets for easy access while riding.
Alt_Road Jersey 3.0: £160
The third iteration of the Alt-Road jersey continues to use merino wool blend, selected for its thermal regulation, moisture management, fast drying quality and odour resistance. "These properties combine to make Merino the perfect match for those pushing the limits of performance or heading off the grid," say MAAP - and most bikepackers would agree.
However, the weave and blend of the Merino fabric has been tweaked to reduce weight and increase airflow: "The result is a jersey that has incredible breathability and an unrestrictive feel, while retaining MAAP's signature close fitting silhouette" say MAAP, adding that the lighter weight of the new jersey makes it better suited to riding in warmer conditions.
Alt_Road Insulated Jacket (£200) & Vest (£165)
The Alt_Road Insulated Jacket & Vest are purpose built for the specific demands of off-road riding. The new garments have an updated cut and a hidden internal cinch for adjusting the on-bike hem fit, allowing for a close cut on the bike but a more relaxed fit post ride.
Insulation is taken care of by Teijin Octa Airmesh fabric throughout the internal lining of the jacket, offering a fleece like warmth in a much lighter fabric.
The outer Pertex fabric features a 2-way stretch that is optimised for windblocking and packability. The jacket is slightly more permeable to air than MAAP's road offerings as a response to the naturally lower speeds of off-road riding.
Check out the new Alt_Road range at maap.cc.
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