Ibex is known for their quality Merino wool gear that is perfect for all types of cycling weather ― mud, rain, sun, and snow. The benefit of Merino is its durability, moisture management capabilities, antimicrobial properties, and ability to regulate temperature. Recently Ibex launched several new pieces to their line, and I chose to test two:
- Men’s or women’s Shak Vest ($200) – Made from 100% double-knit Merino Ponti, this vest offers temperature-regulating comfort with great natural stretch.
- Women’s Lizzi Tights ($190) – These leggings are made from Ponti Compression fabric, a hardwearing blend of Merino with nylon for added strength and abrasion resistance. Merino’s thermoregulating properties keep you warm but not clammy on long rides in cool weather.
Both items are from Ponti is 100% Merino wool, double-knit for incredible insulation. The interlocking structure monopolizes Merino’s natural elasticity, allowing it to move freely on or off the bike.
Yes, Ibex gear is pricy, but all its wool comes from Australia and New Zealand, is machine washable (cold), and take good care of these items, and they’ll last many, many years.
Shak Vest
Price: $200
Sizes: XS-XL (women’s); S-2XL (men’s)
Fit: Fitted
Material: 100% Merino Wool Ponti
Color: 5 color choices
Availability: Online
Obtained by: Company samples
RBR advertiser: No
Keep Your Core Warm and Comfortable
The Shak vest is designed to fit close to the body, available in five colors and both men’s and women’s versions. The website description said fitted, but I found the sizing slightly off, and I could have easily sized down one to two sizes.
The dense merino wool fabric has excellent natural stretch to move with you on and off the bike. It’s perfect for riding, hiking, daily use around the house, and running errands.
While you could wear the Shak vest on a ride, I don’t believe it was designed specifically for cycling. First, there are no rear pockets, just front hand warmer pockets. There are hidden zippers for a nice clean appearance. Actually, the zippers were so hidden it took a couple of wearings before I realized they were there. For additional storage, there are two inside front pouches, too. Second, even in the top navigation of the Ibex website, there’s not even a category for cycling.
Other features include a higher stand collar for added warmth, a full zipper to regulate your temperature easily, and a spring-loaded zipper pull that doesn’t flap in the wind. I honestly don’t think I’ve ever seen a zipper pull like this one. One of those features you didn’t know you’d want in a garment but glad you had it.
Women’s Lizzi Tights
Price: $190
Sizes: XS-XL
Fit: Slim
Material: 100% Merino Wool Ponti
Color: 5 color choices
Inseam: 28″ (‘ 71.12cm) for size medium
https://ibex.com/collections/lizzi-tight/products/womens-lizzi-tight
Sleep, Hike, or Bike in Lizzi Tights
Ibex’s new Lizzi tights are so incredibly comfortable you can wear them from bed to a bike ride to the grocery store, shop for groceries, and then for a hike. The fitted tight is made from Ponti compression fabric, a Merino wool blend with nylon for added strength and abrasion resistance. A small amount of elastane helps maintain the fabric’s shape and compression. The thermoregulating properties and compression provide a snug, warm, no itch and cozy fit.
The yoga wide waistband and compression fabric provide a custom fit and all-day support. I was initially worried that the pants would slip down without a drawstring at the waist, but that’s not the case. However, I would have sized down to get a more compressive feel.
When cycling, wear the Lizzi over shorts or bibs for added warmth, or if you don’t need a chamois, wear it on its own. The compression is perfect for reducing muscle fatigue, and you benefit from all the other Merino wool properties.
Another great feature of these tights is the side cargo pockets. When I have them on, I never need a purse. I can stash my phone, keys, and wallet in the pockets, almost like a hamster stuffing his cheeks with food for later. And no matter what you put in the pockets, it doesn’t move around while pedaling or walking. So you honestly don’t even feel there’s something stowed away.
The Lizzi tights are available in XS-XL and five different colors. According to the company’s website, they are a slim fit, but I could have ordered one size smaller. Also, note if you have long legs, the inseam runs 1-2” short. It all depends on how you like to wear your tights, the size medium has a 28” inseam. So while the $190 price point for these leggings is pricy, the durable, abrasion-resistant fabric will provide years and years of wear.
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.
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