In mid-April, Machines for Freedom launched a new collection and entered a new cycling category. Previously, the company focused exclusively on the road cycling market but now has the Versatile collection for off-road.
The same high-quality construction I found in their road shorts and bibs is part of their new pieces. I tested two items from the collection, the Key Short (11” inseam) and Machines Crew.
Key Short
Price: $108 MSRP
Colors: Utility Green, MFF Black (11” inseam); Utility Green, MFF Black, Citronelle (5.5” inseam)
Sizes: 24-38
The Key Short is the cornerstone of the Versatile Off-Road Collection. I wore the shorts with the 11” inseam mountain biking with a padded short underneath and on its own for everyday use. The leg was cut wide enough to fit knee pads underneath (see picture at top of page), and the stretchy, wicking polyester was very comfortable.
For me, the sizing ran big, and I would recommend sizing down at least one size.
Machines Crew
Price: $98 MSRP
Colors: MFF Black, Citronelle
Sizes: XXS-3XL
Like the Key Short, I felt the Crew top ran big, so depending on how you like a top to fit, choose the size correctly. You’ll want a roomier fit for an MTB jersey to allow for mobility but not too loose that it snags on branches.
The fabric is on the heavier side, making it feel more like a sweatshirt than a jersey. It was so comfortable I wore it both on and off the bike. The Crew feels like cotton, however, made from a polyester blend with moisture-resistant and quick-drying properties.
Large rear zipper pocket easily stores phone and nutrition
A large rear zipper pocket provides room to stash your phone, nutrition, or keys securely. Available in two colors to match or contrast with the Key Short.
Tech Tee
The Versatile collection also includes a Tech Tee in short or long sleeves for warmer weather. Both are soft to the touch, UPF 50, made from the fiber of beech trees a renewable resource, and quick drying.
Price: $78 MSRP (short sleeve), $88 MSRP (long sleeve)
Colors: Himalayan Salt, Cobalt, MFF Black w/mesh
Sizes: XXS-3XL
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.
Men will want to know this is a women’s clothing company.