With the weather eventually deciding to turn up the heat for our typical short-lived summer here in the UK, we have been swapping our longer-sleeved jerseys, thermals and leggings for shorts and T-shirts — but only for a few weeks, it seems.

I have searched high and low for new, inspirational, trendy women-specific off-road cycling products that ensure you turn heads on the trails this summer and roll into the slightly cooler months of Autumn. Some lesser-known brands, such as Victory Chimp and Siroko, are coming up with beautiful clothing options to see you through all seasons of the year, with Spanish brand Siroko introducing a dedicated women’s gravel collection. Vulpine's Women’s Harrington Rain Jacket is an ideal option for the unpredictable sudden downpour to keep the wet weather on the outside.

• Tips for beginner mountain bikers
• Buyer’s guide to summer mountain bike jerseys
• Gravel cycling: experiencing a women's bikepacking event

Cargo bib shorts by Victory Chimp

Victory Chimp has a cool brand name and is based in the Sperrin Mountains of Northern, Ireland. The colourful, funky clothing range features a special Banana Positioning Technology integrated into all products with rear pockets.

A top pick from VC for this summer's wardrobe is the Women’s Detachable Cargo Big Shorts. Leg pockets offer plenty of options for carrying your items over a long day's ride. The cargo shorts feature a pocket specifically for transporting your banana or similar items of such size and a magnetic closure for quick removal for comfort breaks without needing to undress almost entirely in a farmer's field. This is a much-welcome alternative, especially if the colder weather is upon us.

The shorts cost £115 and come in various sizes from XL to XXXL.

• victorychimp.cc

Siroko new women’s gravel collection

Based in Northern Spain, Siroko designs some of the most high-end cycling clothing on the market. The new gravel-specific women’s collection includes figure-hugging jerseys, bib shorts, tops and shorts with a more casual, relaxed, baggy fit and stylish socks. If you are in the market for one pair of gravel shorts this season, then the Jade Gravel Shorts are worth a look. At only £65 and loaded with features and high-end performance materials, it is much needed on a longer ride where the terrain is typically rough.

The ripstop fabric helps defend against accidental snags, and the wide elasticated waist comforts the riding position. Pockets on the side and the rear allow snacks and tools to join you wherever you go. Check out the other products; you’ll get high quality, style and great value.

Jade shorts are available in sizes XXS - XL.

• siroko.com

Harrington Rain Jacket – perfect for year-round commuting

Vulpine Women’s Harrington Rain Jacket is the perfect solution for the unpredictable weather we are often handed. It is a classic British-style garment, made with premium materials including a fabric that offers breathability and weather protection. The features and versatility of this jacket mean it is ideal for multi-season commuting, whether along the canal, nipping through the streets or toughing it out over gravel and mud.

The Harrington has cycling-specific tailoring with cuffs shaped for the riding position, reflective detailing, and a magnetic collar closure. The jacket is available in sizes XS-XL and retails at £200.

• vulpine.cc

Ombre vibes in new jersey by Trail Bloom

When searching for women-specific mountain bike clothing, sadly, there isn’t much choice. There is a handful that seems to crop up in the spotlight and it’s refreshing to see women's tailored cycle clothing with a great selection of colours (not all pink) and, what’s better, there’s often a friendly open community that goes alongside. Trail Bloom offers a selection of jerseys, including an animal print, hats, socks and other accessories. The Ladies MTB Jersey Ombre Print 3/4 Sleeve in Coral is part of the new arrivals and is made using durable, stretchy, breathable material. It has sizes from UK 8 to UK 24 and has a welcoming cost of only £39.00.

• trailbloom.com​

Fox Women’s Ranger Gel Gloves

Always a favourite among mountain bike collections, the Ranger portfolio offers an abundance of choice, including trousers, jerseys, jackets, casual wear and accessories such as gloves. The Ranger collection is made for trail riders who seek all the proper technical features and versatility while keeping costs down.

The Ranger gloves have been a popular go-to choice for many and Fox Racing has recently churned out the Gel version. The palm features high-quality materials and strategically positioned ‘TruGel’ gel padding zones, giving more comfort and protection. Touch screen-compatible fingertips at the index and thumb make these highly versatile mountain bike gloves. The colours are Black and Dark Purple, and sizes range from Small to large. They cost a very reasonable £32.99.

• foxracing.co.uk

Scottish brand 'Fortan' releases new Women's collection

Small Scottish mountain bike brand Fortan has created garments for riding and casual outings. Its latest range for women is now available. The brand has also recently made modern adjustments to its women's sizing for an improved fit, emphasising a closer, more athletic fit when compared to previous models.

If you're looking for a new jersey, the Women's Defend MTB Jersey is made using lightweight micromesh fabric that is highly breathable and will ensure moisture is under control. There's a 'grunge' design with a stunning emerald green tone and what's great is the recycled polyester materials. Sizes from XS to 4XL are among the most inclusive ranges of sizes you may find when looking for women-specific mountain bike clothing.

• fortanactivewear.com

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