Getting your clothing right for the Atlas Mountain Race is vital. You need to have kit that you are comfortable in, that doesn’t weigh too much, packs down small and most importantly is going to make sure you are protected from whatever the weather throws at you. I have used GORE WEAR for all but one bikepacking adventure and that is purely down to the fact that it has never let me down. The materials are high quality and their performance is unrivalled. So for the Atlas Mountain Race it was a no brainer to turn to Gore Wear for the majority of my clothing.

Below I have listed the kit I used with their Gore Wear blurb and then added my verdict. For full transparency, I was gifted these items of clothing.

GORE WEAR 30% One-off Discount Code

With the code “JAMIEISADVENTURING30″ everyone gets a one-time 30% discount on all not discounted Gore Wear products. You are welcome 😉

ENDURE GORE-TEX JACKET MENS

GORE WEAR Description: An incredibly lightweight, durably waterproof jacket with an over-the-helmet hood.

My verdict: I only had to use this jacket a couple of times but on both occasions, it performed well. Putting aside that it kept me dry, I loved the fit of this jacket and the fact that it packed down small so didn’t take up much room on my bike.

TRAILKPR JERSEY MENS

GORE WEAR Description: A versatile, technical trail jersey that is lightweight, soft, and built to last.

My verdict: Most people were wearing normal cycling jerseys but I wanted something more comfortable, especially as I was wearing it for 6 days straight and sleeping in it. I was concerned about not having the pockets on the back but needn’t have been as was wearing a racing backpack. Like the tape around the waist which stops it riding up. Great choice for this race and everyday riding.

DISTANCE BIB SHORTS 2.0 MENS

GORE WEAR Description: Our most comfortable bib shorts specifically built for longer distances.

My verdict: I am going to put it out there and say that these were probably the most comfortable bib shorts I have ever worn. I wore them for 6 days straight and they hardly lost shape. I did get a saddle sore at the end, but I think that was because my seat wasn’t straight and I didn’t test the seat before I left. I would 100% recommend these, especially for long rides.

SPINSHIFT CARGO BIB SHORTS MENS

GORE WEAR Description: Saddle comfort, snug compression, and multiple pockets make this durable bib short ideal for daily training.

ALTERNATIVE TO ABOVE: I hadn’t seen these before the race but love that they have pockets on the thighs which would have been great for snacks on this race.

C3 THERMO TIGHTS

GORE WEAR Description: Thermal tights for cycling in cold conditions.

My verdict: To be honest, this was a last-minute addition and I am so glad I took them! I wore them over my bib shorts during the nights and they definitely gave me the warmth to put in some long overnight stints.

ENDURE GORE-TEX PANTS MENS

GORE WEAR Description: Wind- and waterproof cycling pants that are lightweight, packable, and very breathable made for demanding weather conditions.

My verdict: I never actually used them on the race (but have since) because it didn’t rain hard enough when I was on the bike. But I think that the reason these are great is that they give you peace of mind that if the weather turns bad, you have a protective layer that is shoved at the bottom of a bag, not taking up too much space or adding to much weight. They are surprisingly confortable!

M THERMO LONG SOCKS

GORE WEAR Description: This tall sock is made from a mix of materials including merino wool, gaining the benefits of insulation without increasing overall bulk.

My verdict: I use these socks on most of my long-distance bikepacking adventures, especially if the weather is going to be variable. They are warm, comfortable and hard-wearing. Definitely worth having a couple of pairs in your sock drawer (I use them for ski touring as well).

SHIELD ARM WARMERS

GORE WEAR Description: Extend your riding time with arm warmers for extra protection in cool, windy and damp weather.

My verdict: I took these and a TRAILKPR HYBRID 1/2-ZIP MENS. Upon reflection, I should have just taken the arm warmers as had my compulsory insulated jacket. I have been a fan of arm warmers for a while and wouldn’t do a long cycle without them.

C5 SHORT GLOVES

GORE WEAR Description: Shock-absorbing and blister-free protection for the bumpy road.

My verdict: I forgot to pack them and got blisters on my hands – enough said, so regret not having them!

M GORE® WINDSTOPPER® THERMO GLOVES

GORE WEAR Description: With insulation under the GORE® WINDSTOPPER® shell, this glove will protect your fingers on very cold days.

My verdict: Great to have for the cold night sections but probably a luxury in terms of space.

OTHER KIT:

FIVE TEN Trailcross Clip-In Mountain Biking Shoes

Thought these were the best clip-in shoe I had ever used. They are comfortable, light and work really well. Put it this way, I came back and bought another pair. If you are quick they are £42 at Evans Cycles (click image to go to shop)

Montane Mens Anti-Freeze Lite Hoodie

I have the Montane Featherlite insulated jacket which is no longer in production, but I believe this is the replacement. I have taken mine on nearly every adventure I have been on! LOVE IT