7mesh has released a new range of clothing called Airmap which is said to control the way that air flows through a garment. The range is made up of outer layers that are targeted towards mountain biking and gravel riding and should be perfect for changeable fall/autumn conditions.
Designing riding gear that performs well on the bike is complicated, clothing has to be able to offer weather protection from the outside whilst regulating temperature and minimizing moisture buildup on the inside. Outer layers like MTB jackets are particularly difficult as even the most breathable waterproof layers are susceptible to developing a rainforest microcosm once inclines start raising heart rates
“One of the inconvenient truths about technical apparel is that it’s always about balancing rider needs. Having a hyper-focus on water resistance misses the reality that air is the ultimate key to comfort,” said Ian Martin, VP Product at 7Mesh.
7Mesh's Airmap concept revolves around constructing a garment using strategically placed paneling to control airflow, to do this 7Mesh leverages three different engineered laminate materials. For weather protection, 7Mesh uses a three-layer material while a two-layer material gives protection from the wind. There is a single-layer material that is used to maximize air permeability and enhance breathability. These all use the same face fabric, giving the garments a clean finish as if they are made from a single material.
By controlling the airflow 7Mesh says they are able to move air across the body effectively. This is done by stopping the chilling effects by blocking air in the direction of movement without limiting airflow which helps regulate temperature and moisture.
All three Airmap fabrics are Bluesign and Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified and made without the use of environmentally suspect perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) and PFAS forever chemicals.
The focus is on airflow as you ride and while 7Mesh says that the garments offer some weather resistance, they don't specify what the weather resistance rating is.
7Mesh Airmap garments are available to buy now although the pricing is on the super-premium end of the scale. The range covers mountain biking with the Cache Anorak ($330 / £330), Cache Jacket ($300 / £280), and Grit Pants ($300 / £280) and services gravel/road with a long-sleeve Jersey ($300 / £280) and a vest ($200 / £180). All products come in both men's and women's sizes and share similar color palettes.
For more details, head over to airmap.7mesh.com.
