In the first eight years of its existence, the Australian clothing brand MAAP focussed almost exclusively on the domestic market. Now the manufacturer is pushing into Europe with performance-orientated cycling clothing. Presented in October 2021, the Alt_Road collection for gravel bikers includes cosy, warm socks made from merino wool, a long-sleeved jersey with a full-length zip, a lightweight waistcoat and short bib shorts. Compared to the off-road clothing of other brands, the tight fit stands out, but the emphatically loose T-shirt called "Alt_Road Tee" for 80 euros is an exception. Unfortunately, the race-style cut of the long-sleeved jersey results in comparatively short sleeves, which made the rather lanky tester shiver in temperatures of around 10 degrees Celsius. However, the lined waistcoat leaves nothing to be desired in terms of wind protection and warmth, is still very light and fits rolled up in any jersey pocket. The trousers also impress thanks to the wide waistband with a snug fit and pleasantly reduced, thin seat pad (19 centimetres wide, 26 centimetres long). With saturated colours and slim designs, the product range follows the fashion trend of other Gravel collections; more reflective details would be desirable. The prices are steep.
Prices of the Maap gravel clothing tested:
- Jersey: 185 Euro
- Bibshort: 265 Euro
- waistcoat: 155 Euro
- Socks: 28 Euro
Info: www.maap.cc
+ warm, light waistcoat, comfortable trousers
- Comparatively expensive
Matthias Borchers
Editor
