Fasthouse Raven Gear | Track Tested

Fasthouse Raven Gear | Track Tested

Price: $149.95 (pant); $55 (Block jersey); $32 (glove)

We’re all friends here, so let’s be honest. The original gear offerings we saw from the guys at Fasthouse were more about style and image than performance and function. That’s not to say that the gear they produced in their first three years wasn’t good: it fit well, proved to be durable, and looked like nothing else around and gave the wearer an identity that didn’t blend in. Compared to some of the offerings from race-minded apparel makers, however, the best way to describe original Fasthouse offerings was “standard.” That all changes with the launch of the brand’s new Raven line of apparel, which debuted in late 2018, and has a much greater emphasis on fit and function.

Photo by Matt Dowsey

Whether it’s the pant, jersey, or glove; Fasthouse’s Raven gear is all about performance. The pants are exceptionally comfortable as they are made of four-way stretch Cordura fabric throughout, with two-way stretch panels in the knees and rear yoke. Let’s just say that at around $150, they fit and feel every bit as amazing as race pants from other brands that cost well over $200. The cut is just right and slips over knee braces with ease, without looking too baggy for those who simply wear kneepads. Double waist cinches and a ratchet closure ensure a perfect fit, and real leather knee panels help you grip the bike while protecting against exhaust system burns. The jersey is equally as comfortable, as it is made from stretchy polyester fabric with an athletic cut. The ($65) Raven Jersey is all black with subdued graphics, so we like to pair the Raven pant with a bolder Block jersey, which features the same cut and fabric. Just as impressive as the pant are the Raven Gloves, which are constructed of four-way stretch Cordura with a vented, non-padded Clarino palm. Gloves must be one of the toughest components of a gear set to build, as they must be made to fit a wide variety of hand shapes and finger sizes. Everyone on the SML testing staff is impressed with the Raven glove, as it offers zero restriction, exceptional comfort, and just enough protection to matter.

All told, the new Raven line of apparel from Fasthouse has established the brand as a true contender in performance riding gear: they’ve already had the fashion side down, and now they have the function, too.

fasthouse.com