GripGrab Men’s PACR Kit Review
Mid-Season & Summer Performance
by Robert Thorpe
Mid-season and even summer can be a challenge in North Yorkshire. Yes, I know all about heatwaves and water shortages. I also know that in the higher hills, the temperatures can dip to around 10 degrees or colder in summer, and especially so in autumn. And, with autumn now on the horizon, You need the right cycle clothing to prepare you.
I’ve been a fan of GripGrab for many years. Here at Pedalnorth, we were probably one of the first publications to spot what they were doing, with their world-leading accessories. Then we watched as the guys turned their expertise to cycling jerseys, jackets and bibs with the same level of care and detail. Their latest kit is testament to their quality and both stylish and functional in just the right way.
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Tested Equipment
• PACR Long Sleeve Jersey
• PACR Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey
• PACR Windproof Lightweight Vest
• PACR Bib Shorts
• Ride Arm & Leg Warmers
First Impression – Clean Design, Functional Fit
The people at GripGrab don’t go for unnecessary design and gimmicks. GripGrab follows a very clean and minimal design approach, but what stands out more is the fit. All pieces feel purpose-built for riding, with no unnecessary bulk or distractions. They use a body mapping process, meaning that the fit is performance-oriented but not overly aggressive, which makes it suitable for long endurance sessions without compromising comfort.
Fabric quality makes for fun rides
How did I find it: unbelievably comfortable, with the PACR long sleeved jersey soon becoming my go-to colder ride choice in spring and on those colder summer days. It fits exactly as it should and has easy movement, with the excellent multi-directional stretch fabrics. It’s not too thick or too warm – it’s actually just right and feels soft against the skin. As my colleague and fellow tester, Kristi says: ‘Ultimately, if it’s comfortable and functional, then I feel better and I’ll perform better. Do GripGrab achieve this – yes, I think that they do.’
Small points matter and GripGrab do these very well. They use high-quality, high-performance fabrics and they finish things off with a quality that is second to none. The wide and comfortable straps on the bib shorts simply sit nicely against the legs and the compression feels about right. If I had one point to make, I’d probably like a bit more weight to the bib shorts fabric, but that’s just a personal choice. The fit is excellent and the pad is high-quality too. And, my pet hate – the bib straps – are as good as you’ll find elsewhere at this level.
Overall, GripGrab have used their experience working with world tour riders, and the latest PACR products use a variety of technical fabrics in the right areas, all with the aim of keeping you comfortable all ride long.
Jackets and Jerseys deigned for rider comfort
On the long sleeved and the short-sleeved jackets, the zips work well and are strong, and the pockets are strong and easy to reach, with a good quality zip on the security pocket. Small points matter with cycling kit, far more than loud aesthetics. What was really impressive was the mesh sleeves and fabric used for the arms and the side panels on the PACR short sleeved jersey. This makes a world of difference to comfort on warm days. And, like its long -sleeved sibling, the PACR short sleeved jersey is body mapped and fits like a second skin. Both jerseys also benefit from high-quality hems at the waist – which for me is another area than too many brands get wrong with an after-thought approach. Not so for GribGrab.
One particular favourite for me has been the GripGrab PACR Windproof Lightweight Vest. Ironically, it’s an item of kit that I don’t usually use or find that comfortable. However, this one from GripGrab has not only changed my perspective, it’s become a regular go-to choice of cycling clothing for me.
Featuring a windproof front panel made from premium Japanese windproof fabric, this vest genuinely works in providing that necessary shield from those cold winds and icy descending on cool windy days. The fabric is also treated with a PFC-free Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment – so it will shrug off light showers and front wheel spray. And, living here in the Yorkshire Dales, this has been tested several times – all thankfully positive! The open mesh back panel on the gilet allows moisture and heat to escape from within – so even as you work hard, you don’t build up a chill-inducing sweat. An elasticated lower hem with silicone gripper dots on the back of the gilet keeps everything securely in place as you battle into those headwinds.
I really do like the two-way YKK® Vision zip on the front of the gilet, which allows you to unzip from the top and allow airflow through your layers, or unzip from the bottom to allow for easier access to your jersey pockets beneath. It’s a small but important point, and one that makes this GripGrab Gilet stand out from the crowd.
Fabric quality makes for fun rides
How did I find it: unbelievably comfortable, with the PACR long sleeved jersey soon becoming my go-to colder ride choice in spring and on those colder summer days. It fits exactly as it should and has easy movement, with the excellent multi-directional stretch fabrics. It’s not too thick or too warm – it’s actually just right and feels soft against the skin. As my colleague and fellow tester, Kristi says: ‘Ultimately, if it’s comfortable and functional, then I feel better and I’ll perform better. Do GripGrab achieve this – yes, I think that they do.’
Small points matter and GripGrab do these very well. They use high-quality, high-performance fabrics and they finish things off with a quality that is second to none. The wide and comfortable straps on the bib shorts simply sit nicely against the legs and the compression feels about right. If I had one point to make, I’d probably like a bit more weight to the bib shorts fabric, but that’s just a personal choice. The fit is excellent and the pad is high-quality too. And, my pet hate – the bib straps – are as good as you’ll find elsewhere at this level.
Overall, GripGrab have used their experience working with world tour riders, and the latest PACR products use a variety of technical fabrics in the right areas, all with the aim of keeping you comfortable all ride long.
Jackets and Jerseys deigned for rider comfort
On the long sleeved and the short-sleeved jackets, the zips work well and are strong, and the pockets are strong and easy to reach, with a good quality zip on the security pocket. Small points matter with cycling kit, far more than loud aesthetics. What was really impressive was the mesh sleeves and fabric used for the arms and the side panels on the PACR short sleeved jersey. This makes a world of difference to comfort on warm days. And, like its long -sleeved sibling, the PACR short sleeved jersey is body mapped and fits like a second skin. Both jerseys also benefit from high-quality hems at the waist – which for me is another area than too many brands get wrong with an after-thought approach. Not so for GribGrab.
One particular favourite for me has been the GripGrab PACR Windproof Lightweight Vest. Ironically, it’s an item of kit that I don’t usually use or find that comfortable. However, this one from GripGrab has not only changed my perspective, it’s become a regular go-to choice of cycling clothing for me.
Featuring a windproof front panel made from premium Japanese windproof fabric, this vest genuinely works in providing that necessary shield from those cold winds and icy descending on cool windy days. The fabric is also treated with a PFC-free Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment – so it will shrug off light showers and front wheel spray. And, living here in the Yorkshire Dales, this has been tested several times – all thankfully positive! The open mesh back panel on the gilet allows moisture and heat to escape from within – so even as you work hard, you don’t build up a chill-inducing sweat. An elasticated lower hem with silicone gripper dots on the back of the gilet keeps everything securely in place as you battle into those headwinds.
I really do like the two-way YKK® Vision zip on the front of the gilet, which allows you to unzip from the top and allow airflow through your layers, or unzip from the bottom to allow for easier access to your jersey pockets beneath. It’s a small but important point, and one that makes this GripGrab Gilet stand out from the crowd.
Men’s PACR Bib Shorts
Bib shorts can so often be a poor example of a brands attitude towards cyclists. They often relfect last minute choices, and are simply not well thought out or comfortable. These PACR shorts from GripGrab however, have several points that I look for and they do it well:
- strong mesh uppers to keep you cool and that sit well against the body
- high quality and strong, wide staps that sit flat and softly,and importantly don’t move or show poorly under a jersey
- laser cut legs with wide silicon gripping that sits against the leg and keeps things in place
- multi panel body-mapped design to ensure a good fit
- multi -directional and strong fabrics that move with your body
- high-quality pad that performs on intermediate and hilly routes and keeps you comfortable – and dry in summer!
The PACR Bib Shorts combined with cool summer days leg warmers also provided a surprisingly versatile setup. They offer enough warmth for cold starts, while still feeling lighter and more flexible than full winter tights. Best of all, the compression and cut means that they stay firm and stable when I ride – like a second skin, allowing you to focus on the ride, without that annoying slippage that often happens with other brands. One area I will mention though, is that on the leg panels themselves, I’d prefer a heavier compression material – but that’s just a personal choice. The multi-panel design ensures a soft second-skin fit that feels comfortable all day long.
On the Bike – Comfort and Stability
During longer rides (2–4 hours), the key factors for me were:
• Stability of the fit – no shifting or adjustment needed
• Breathability – no excessive overheating even during harder efforts
• Freedom of movement – unbelievable, and like a second skin feel, without being too close.
GribGrab work closely with World Tour riders, and this becomes evident in the comfort of their clothing. The fabric choices, the technicity and the design and fit is all superb.
Gloves – Simple, well-made and comfortable
Gloves are often an overlooked but critical element of our cycling kit. GripGrab made their name with gloves, and they still stand out today. I tested their RIDE padded fingerless gloves, with the white material. Incidentally, I liked that when I put my hand out to signal, drivers were more likely to see my hands. The GripGrab RIDE short finger cycling gloves are the successors to the ProGel gloves, and offer superior cushioning, breathability, and grip with a recycled microsuede palm and flexible back panel. How do they work in practice – well, very good actually and the palms are just about right.
• hands stayed comfortable and gloves felt a part of me
• tough and well-made of strong fabrics
• grip remained secure in both dry and damp conditions
• no loss of control or dexterity during braking and shifting
As Kristi quite rightly says in her own review: gloves should never be a secondary thought, and these from GribGrab are a good option for early spring, summer and autumn. They feel well made, from quality fabrics and are tough, and should last a long time.
Breathability vs Protection
One of the most important aspects of early and mid-season gear is balancing insulation with breathability and the changing conditions. GripGrab manages this well:
• the fabrics protect against wind and cold without being oppressive
• technical fabrics still allow moisture to escape during effort, especially the mesh fabric on the PACR ss arms and sides
• the bibs are light and functional, and have superb uppers with a minimalist approach and high-quality straps that say seated.
Good, high-quality technical fabric choices and well mapped out designs help to reduce fluctuations in temperature and comfort. The latest PACR kit from GripGrab is stylishly simple, extremely functional and offers that protection from the elements without sacrificing breathability. Mid-season and cold summer days are always a difficult choice.
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Who This Setup Is For
This kit is especially well suited for riders who:
• cycles consistently in variable conditions
• prioritize functionality over aesthetics
• need reliable gear for long endurance rides
It’s priced in the right area to make it accessible for most riders, and will give you a comfortable ride – and ultimately, that is always a key focus. GripGrab design and produce cycling clothing and accessories that work. The kit is also stylish, in a cool and modern way, which I like. It’s not loud or garish – it simply works on the bike and fits my purpose, whilst adding that modern styling.
Both Kristi and I were impressed by the PACR range from GripGrab, and the brand have obviously taken time to create kit that works as well as looking good.
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Conclusion
GripGrab may not position itself as the most visible premium brand, but it delivers where it matters most: performance, reliability and functionality in real training conditions. And for a rider, that’s exactly what counts. Kristi and I both enjoyed testing their latest kit, and it does actually work. They’re a brand that doesn’t go for unnecessary headlines. Instead, they focus on function and fit, which is what all cyclists want, isn’t it.
