We brought you news some time ago that Dakine in New Zealand had changed shape a little. A much larger range was on its way, not dictated by what Australia wanted, and it was coming to a bunch more shops at some ludicrously affordable and realistic prices. Well part of the first shipment of stock has just arrived in selected shops (with the rest just weeks away) and we managed to get our hands on a few bits and pieces.
Perhaps the item in the line that we were most excited about when we checked out the samples last year was the Ridge Short and at $129.95 (including a removable liner) it is definitely a standout. Seeing it again in the flesh today, it still gets our vote for an amazing short for all-round trail riding.
It straddles the casual yet functional riding short look admirably, and with belt loops and adjustable tabs, fit is easily dialled in.
As I said before at $129 the shorts come with a liner, which you may mistake for a girl’s pair of knickers with its frilly edges…
The attention to detail is spot on and the rear pocket is testament to this.
For the Freeride/DH set out there Dakine have some solid heavy duty stuff in the Descent line. The Jersey features anti-microbial fabric, sunglass wipes and a long sleeve option. Retail is $69 ($79 for the long sleeve).
The Descent short comes in two colourways, is super solid and made of 600 Denier polyester for durability and 4 way stretch crotch gusset and rear yoke. Like most DH shorts there is a ratchet for waist adjustment and the all important zippered pocket for cash or your car keys. RRP is $169.99
Dakine’s range is absolutely massive and something we’ve never seen here in New Zealand before is their waterproof riding jackets. The Shield jacket comes in this subdued colourway as well as a look-at-me option. It may look simple but it’s feature packed. For starters it’s made from a 5000mm waterproof/5000mm breathable membrane backed fabric and features articulated sleeves and will run you only $209.99!
A waterproof zipper keeps you dry up front.
Pit zips keep you vented on those hotter rides and front zippered pockets let you stash your stuff.
The rear features a slightly dropped tail, and a small reflective logo, not enough to make you visible commuting mind you…
Like I said the Dakine range is massive. This is just the stuff we’ve begun to test, but to check out the full range head here (although not all of it will be available in New Zealand), and to find out where you can buy it you can flick an email here.
I’ve been wearing the jacket around the house today and hoping for rain, but alas it’s a perfect day outside. Jacket feels good on with plenty of room for my generous torso and has long arms for that attack riding positon. The hood can be manipulated to give good vision when head turning and the armpit vents are very long for max venting. I reckon this is going to be a great shitty weather jacket for sure.