Pas Normal Studios (PNS) has launched a new clothing collection for gravel racers. It claims “gravel riding has changed” from overnight adventures and exploring to faster, more technical and more competitive riding.
We don’t think that’s quite true. It’s more that it has diverged into discrete gravel racing and gravel adventure segments, with different bikes and needs for each, much as road riding can be split into racing and endurance.
Nevertheless, we’ll go with PNS’ premise, with its new Escapism kit developed alongside its PNS Racing gravel race team.
To meet the needs of competitive gravel riding, the collection is made using lightweight technical fabrics for breathability, which are also abrasion resistant.
There’s the usual 'gravelly' array of pockets, including cargo pockets in the bib shorts, arm pockets on the backs of the jersey sleeves and two trash pockets for used gel wrappers that sit on top of the three main rear pockets.
The PNS Escapism collection consists of bib shorts (£250) and short-sleeved (£175) and long-sleeved (£195) jerseys, each with two-way zips. All are available for both men and women. The Escapism pieces also include mitts (£44) and gloves (£54).
There’s also a speedsuit available in limited quantities in men’s fit only, which includes a pocket for a water bladder on the upper back, reinforced straps to keep the bladder in place and routing loops for the hydration hose. It’s priced at £420.
As is typical with gravel clothing, the PNS Escapism collection is made of matt fabrics that come in muted, 'gravelly' colours: dark red, stone brown, light olive and black.
You can buy the Escapism range directly from the PNS site or from selected retailers.
