We’ve mainly limited our coverage of Machines For Freedom to our sister site Cyclingnews because up until now it’s been a solely road-focused brand. That all changes today, as MFF launches its first-ever foray into the world of off-road cycling kit.
The LA brand, which is making waves in the industry thanks to its inclusive approach to sizing and the diversity of its models, now offers a new spring collection for the trails: the Versatile Off-Road Collection.
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Machines For Freedom Versatile Off-Road Collection
This range of technical kit is inspired by dirt-riding and forms a capsule wardrobe that can be easily mixed and matched for a simple and classic look. As the name suggests, this particular range is designed to be versatile enough to ride the trails as well as casual hang outs, drawing inspiration from lifestyle performance wear.
The range includes the Key Short, a high-rise fit and versatile pair of trail shorts which use stretchy and high-wicking polyester for a modern and stylish silhouette that also offers some support for those carrying a little extra in the middle. Unlike a lot of clothing often marketed towards women, these are designed and made by women and therefore include some nice details, including five fully functional pockets, and a choice of two inseam length options: 5.5in and 11in.
To accompany the Key Short, the Tech Tee is a soft and relaxed technical t-shirt made from MicroModal fabric that’s derived from beech tree fibers. Since it’s a renewable material, it offers a more sustainable option in this market, and has the added bonus of being quick-drying and wrinkle resistant. The boxy cut is designed to drape well over any body shape, offering full freedom of movement on the bike, and it's offered with both long-sleeve and short-sleeve options.
A final addition to the Versatile Off-Road Collection is the Machines Crew, the brand’s take on the classic cotton sweatshirt. It’s claimed to have all of the moisture-resistance and quick-drying capabilities that you’d need when taking in the local trails. The contoured sleeves are designed to offer maximum movement, while a zippered valuables pocket at the rear appears to be large enough to carry a modern smartphone.
“When Machines launched, our goal was to challenge the status quo. That meant challenging the way cycling kits are designed so that it is more shape-inclusive, challenging outdated ideas about women's needs for performance product and the aesthetics of technical products, as well as challenging homogenous interpretations of what the cycling community is all about,” says Jenn Kriske, founder of Machines For Freedom. “Over the years, we've found that road cycling isn't the only industry that could use a fresh and progressive infusion. Our community also mountain bikes, commutes, trains on their Peloton, even runs and hikes! Every place that an active outdoor woman plays, Machines belongs, and the Versatile Off-Road Collection is the first step in bringing the Machines aesthetic and ethos to a larger community.”
