[Review] Men’s XC Lite Gear by Klim

The XC Lite Gear by Klim is a must-have if you’re riding in hot weather. It keeps me cool and comfortable even on the hottest days under the Arizona sun. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll still be sweating but between this and the gear I was wearing before, there is a noticeable difference in my body temp and my ability to regulate my body temp. The mesh that Klim is using for the XC Lite gear is breathable, allows for ample airflow, and is surprisingly durable.

As you can see in the photos, the XC Lite Jersey is made up entirely of a ventilated mesh. I questioned the durability of this jersey when I first got it but after a month of using and abusing it out in the desert, it holds up just as well as any other jersey I’ve had. Between what I’m calling the diamond V-neck that stays in place and won’t ride into your throat and the elastic cuffs, the XC Lite Jersey stays in place no matter how hard you’re riding. The fit of the XC Lite Jersey is money and I’m usually a size large and went with that for this jersey even though I wear it over full protection. It easily fits over my body armor without restricting my movement and there’s still plenty of room to tuck it in if I choose to do so.

Paired perfectly with the XC Lite Jersey is the XC Lite Pant. I’ve not heard of anyone having a peanut butter and jelly sandwich without the jelly and having the pants and jersey just makes sense. Having one without the other doesn’t.

Klim says about the XC Lite gear that it’s “engineered to provide the highest level of durability while maintaining an extreme level of mobility and ventilation” and there couldn’t be a better statement (klim.com). Of course, when you are opting for highly breathable, your chances of extremely durable go down but I believe that for how breathable these pants are, they are impressively durable. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve already ripped my gear but anything in that instance that I would’ve been wearing would’ve done the same.

The pants are made up of a few different mesh materials, with more durable mesh in places where you need it most. On the inner knee there are leather panels to help with grip and protection. These pants fit me well and are consistent with the sizes of my other Klim gear. I’m 6’ tall and 185 pounds and wear a size 34. It’s also worth mentioning, since these are an in the boot pant, that there is not bulky, built-up material inside the boot when I’m all put together and ready to ride.

Of course, this wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t talk about the XC Lite Gloves. Equitably, the gloves are lightweight and simple made for those real hot days. The palm of the glove is made up of a soft, synthetic suede with perforation throughout. These gloves probably aren’t going to do much in the realm of protection if you go down fast or hard but that’s not really the point. I wear them in techy single track and not only do they keep my hands cool, they also allow for precision control.

Klim’s XC Lite kit not only comes in a plethora of colors, it’s hands down crucial for hot weather riding. Both Cally and I have experienced minor heat exhaustion and it can take the fun out of an amazing day of riding. If you want to match with your girl, be sure to check Cally’s Review of the Women’s XC Lite Gear. It’s been a game-changer for her as well. If you’re interested in purchasing Klim XC Lite Gear, doing so using our provided links supports us as we get a small kickback from your purchase. We appreciate the support!

*We received the XC Lite Gear for free in exchange for a review, however, it’s important to know that all thoughts are our own.