Fly Racing Ripa Convert Jersey
Size: Medium
Color: White / Red / Black
MSRP: $45
Features:
- Convertible 3/4 sleeve arms with cut line under cuff for customization of full or 3/4 sleeve length
- Mesh panels in the upper back and lower arms
- Performance cycling fit
- Drop tail and raglan sleeve cut
- Sublimation graphics
Reviewer Info: 5’9”, 155 lbs, Typically wears a Medium
Days tested: 6
Locations tested: Whistler, BC; Whitefish, MT
The Ripa Convert Jersey is interesting (and different from most other jerseys on the market) for two reasons: (1) the majority of the back is fairly open mesh, and (2) the bottom 1/4 of the sleeves are also mesh.
The back panel is really nice on hot days; as one would expect from a mesh back, it vents really well. It’s worth noting that it’s a bit see-through, which might be off-putting for some people.
The sleeves are also unique – there’s a hemmed cuff about ¾ of the way down, and below that it’s all mesh. I found the mesh to be a bit weird looking and not all that comfortable because it feels a bit odd against the forearm. This is a problem that Fly Racing must have anticipated; tucked under the hem of the cuff, the words “cut here” are printed on the mesh portion. I followed the instructions, and now my Ripa Convert is a ¾ sleeve jersey, which I like much better.
In terms of fit, the Ripa Convert is pretty average for somewhat baggy DH / freeride jerseys. It’s cut large enough that you could fit some pads under it, but not so huge that you feel like you’re floating in it. The neck hole is also big enough so as not to be uncomfortable (an issue I’ve had with some other jerseys).
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a long sleeve (or ¾ sleeve) jersey that vents well, the Fly Racing Ripa Convert gets that job done at a price that’s entirely reasonable.
Fly Racing Warpath Short
Size: 32
Color: Black / Grey
MSRP: $110
Features:
- Ultra-light, breathable stretch construction
- Velcro buckle on left side for waist adjustability
- Mesh panels on the back of legs
- Two large zippered leg vents with locking zippers
- Rear Stretch panel on back of short
- 3.5” side mesh pocket for phone or accessory storage
- Zippers on all pockets
- Inner liner sewn in with dual density performance chamois pad
- Belt loops
- Quick snap front closure
- Screen printed graphics
Reviewer Info: 5’9”, 155 lbs, Typically wears a Medium / 32” waist
Days tested: 10
Locations tested: Whistler, BC; Fernie, BC; Whitefish, MT
The Warpath shorts are what I’d call an all-around trail short; they function well as a comfortable, well ventilated short for an “average” ride. Despite their somewhat aggressive name, these wouldn’t be my first choice for super aggressive riding; the material isn’t heavy enough to withstand a ton of abuse, and the cut isn’t long enough to mesh well with pads. But for rides where there’s just as much up as there is down, the Warpath is a great option.
The Warpath features three pockets – two regular hand pockets on the front, and a small hip pocket on the left rear. All three pockets have zippered closures to keep everything in place in the event of an unplanned dismount.
To keep things cool, the Warpath shorts have a zippered vent on the front of each leg. Additionally, the Warpath has a fair amount of mesh venting placed around the sides and back to increase airflow. Even the non-mesh fabric on the shorts is relatively light and allows for some airflow. I’ve ridden in the Warpath on a few fairly warm days and they were reasonably comfortable; not dramatically cool, but not hot either.
My size 32 shorts were a hair on the snug side, but not so much that I’d size up. The length on the Warpath is about right for all-around riding; short enough to not be stifling, but long enough to not be embarrassing. They are, however, a bit short to mesh well with kneepads.
The fit on the Warpath can be adjusted with velcro tabs at the waist, which is similar to many other comparable shorts on the market. One thing I appreciated is that the Warpath doesn’t have any elastic in the waistband. While this means you have to dial in the fit a little more with the adjustment tabs, it also means that there’s no elastic to stretch out over time, and the shorts won’t get droopy (an issue I’ve had with other shorts that have elastic in the waist).
The Warpath comes with a built-in chamois that, while not spectacular in any particular way, was perfectly comfortable. It’s on par with other shorts of this caliber. My only complaint is that the liner isn’t removable; it’s sewed in with little loops (which could be easily cut, if you were so inclined).
Bottom Line
All in all, the Warpath is an understated, functional short for all-around riding. It vents fairly well, it’s comfortable, and it doesn’t look particularly obnoxious, all of which adds up to a great, straightforward short.