FOX RANGER SHORT AND DRI-RELEASE JERSEY REVIEW

Review by Nic Hall | Photos by Drew Rohde

Fox racing has continually been stepping up their riding gear by using innovative materials and partnering with industry giants like Polartec. We just got done riding their Flexair Neoshell jacket, which set a new level for breathability in a riding jacket. So, when we received the new Ranger kit for testing, we had high hopes.

THE LAB

The Ranger Dri-Release jersey utilizes a cotton/poly blend fabric called Dri-Release that combines hydrophobic and hydrophilic fibers to pull moisture from the skin to the exterior of the fabric, keeping the rider cool and dry. The fabric is not treated like a DWR shell, so the technology will last the lifetime of the garment. This allows a T-shirt feeling jersey to perform like a fitted race jersey without the stink and shine.

A low cut back and strategic panels allow for full coverage while moving with your body on the bike. Subtle colors and logos also let you wear the jersey out after a ride while not feeling like you just got off the tour.

The Ranger Short also sports a fancy new fabric called TruMotion that has a classic ripstop design but incorporates 4-way stretch as well. The waistband has been designed with TruDri material to keep moisture to a minimum where the fabric is thickest. The fit has been designed as a relaxed trail short that comes just to the knees. A DWR coating has been applied to shed water and dirt and the waist band adjusters come standard.

THE DIRT

After our crew at the eMTB shootout put over 1000 miles on the ranger gear, we felt like we had some solid feedback on it. Out of the box, we are stoked on the colors and fit. Most of the pieces felt true to size if not a bit fitted throughout the size range.

The Dri-Release jersey has just enough room to feel comfortable all day but fitted enough to not flap while riding and the extra length at the back keeps any plumber situations at bay. The Ranger short is just a bit bigger than a standard fit but waist adjustments are available. We did run into some issues with the waist adjustment tabs not staying tight, but it appears that Fox has already addressed the issue with their current production.

Breathability of the long sleeve jersey is on par with that of a performance race jersey but feels like wearing your favorite long sleeve T. From 90-degree days with high humidity to rain in the 40s, the Dri-Release jersey keeps you comfortable. It comes in several colors to match whichever look you are going for and we personally liked the black with tan graphics.

The Ranger short is a solid trail cut short that moves with you while you ride and can take a fall without tearing. The cut sits right at the knee with good coverage for trail style knee pads. If you do wear a larger DH style knee pad, the short may hang up and bunch on the top of them. As I said earlier, we had significant issues with the waist cinch on the early production run shorts we received but the current generation short ships with a improved system. Breathability is good even for the hottest and most humid days. Only one zippered pocket on the right is included but hold a full-size phone without issue and we stuffed the main pockets with snacks and tools on longer rides.

The Wolf’s Last Word

Fox keeps impressing with their ability to find unique fabrics and turn them into functional trail kits. The Dri-Release jersey and Ranger short both score high on our list of trail kits we have tested this year. They are breathable, durable, and fit well all while keeping you looking good. Pricing is reasonable for this level of performance but catch a sale at your local shop for the best deal.

Price:
Ranger Short – $84.95
Ranger Dri-Release Jersey – $54.95

Website: Foxracing.com

Disclosure: Our team selects all of the products we review and do so with honesty and objectivity in mind. Some of the products we receive come directly from Competitive Cyclist, who also value our readers and have offered them a 15% discount (exclusions apply) on their first purchase by using LOAMWOLF15. Through this program we may also receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support, TLW.