TESTED: Endura MT500 Gear 4

Growing up in New England, I am no stranger to long, cold, and wet winters. I learned at a young age that proper gear is essential to having a good time when riding in adverse conditions. As all of my riding buddies know, I am extremely particular when it comes to riding gear and bike setup. That said, I was excited to try out Endura's latest MT500 collection, aimed at balancing comfort and performance when tackling the foulest conditions. 

I've worn Endura gear in the past and experienced great success in staying warm and dry. However, the previous lineup did leave me yearning for a more refined fit. The new MT500 products impressed me right out of the box with a modern, ergonomic cut that shows Endura has clearly invested time in analyzing how a rider's body moves in gear. With each garment flaunting seemingly endless practical features combined with a technical fit suited for enduro riding, all I needed was some cold and wet weather. Something Rhode Island does not lack between October and December. 

MT500 Waterproof Jacket II Highlights

• Exceptionally breathable and durable ExoShell 40DR 3-Layer waterproof fabric in a fully seam-sealed construction
• MadeKind fabric is certified as safe for you and the environment with no toxic PFCs
• Durable shoulders with silicone grip and ergonomically positioned stretch panels
• 3D adjustable helmet-compatible hood
• Ventilation from large underarm 2-way zipped vents extends onto the back ​(compatible with backpacks)
• Front pockets double as vents ​ 
• Hidden internal pocket and sleeve lift pass pocket
• Water-repellent front zip 
• Soft touch lycra inner cuff for added comfort and protection
• Colorways: Bottle Green, Electric Blue, Fossil, Nutmeg, Paprika
• Men's Sizing XS-XXXL
• Women's Sizing XS-XXL
• MSRP $329.99

I typically cheap out on waterproof jackets as I have a hard time making them last very long. Between crashes, neglect, and using the product slightly outside its intended use (i.e., trail building), I look at jackets as a disposal product during the winter. Slipping on the MT500 Jacket II, I was curious how a higher-end jacket would perform in comparison. 

The material and quality of the Jacket II's outer fabric was incredibly durable and abrasion proof, with seemingly no weak spots in its construction. The welded zippers on the two front pockets successfully kept my snacks and phone dry even during downpours, and the oversized hood was far more useful than I imagined. However, when the hood wasn't up, it would rub on the back of my helmet and create an annoying scratching noise. 

My favorite feature of the Jacket II was the soft touch lycra inner cuff. Initially, I questioned the need for such a feature, but it quickly proved worthwhile by keeping cold air from creeping up my sleeve or sweat from sneaking into my glove. You got to love a well-thought-out feature! 

I found the Jacket II appropriate for a wide variety of temperatures. The jacket did a fantastic job managing my body temperature when riding between 28 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The conforming yet open fit kept the jacket in place for the duration of riders. The jacket never rode up my back when seated, pedaling, or leaning back descending, and I never had to reach back and pull the jacket down to cover my lower back and butt.  

My only criticism of the Jacket II is the lack of a flap that covers the front zipper. Before my first ride, I was skeptical that the non-welded zipper would remain waterproof. On the trail, the zipper was issue-free during most rides but let in a slight amount of water during the wettest conditions. I wasn't bothered that the jacket didn't completely seal me off from the elements, and the zipper performed well when covered in mud. But for those who ride in extremely wet conditions, note that you will not be 100% waterproof. 

MT500 Waterproof Trouser II 

• Exceptionally breathable and durable ExoShell 40DR 3-Layer waterproof fabric in a fully seam-sealed construction
• PFC-Free, non-toxic, durable water repellent finish
• Pre-shaped for great on-bike articulated fit and stretch panels for unrestricted movement
• Water-resistant hand pockets
• Extra Durable seat and inner ankle panel
• Long, thigh-height two-way water repellent side zippers 
• Belt loops and zipped fly with popper closure
• Reflective details for nighttime visibility
• Clickfast™ compatible
• 90 Day satisfaction guarantee
• Colorways: Black
• Sizes: S to XXL (31-41-inch waist)
• MSRP $249.99

My first impression of the Waterproof Trouser II was that they are substantially lighter than other waterproof pants I have ridden in. Like the Jacket II, the pants use the same durable ExoShell material, and the articulated fit was impressive. The first thing I look at on shorts or pants is if a seam runs across the butt area. I find that extra seams can often lead to unwanted chaffing. Analyzing the Trouser II, I was happy that Endura did an excellent job keeping seams from landing where you sit on your saddle. Plus, the rear panel features a more durable fabric that keeps water or mud from soaking through the pants when pedaling. 

The full-length leg zippers were an excellent addition that I didn't know I wanted on my riding pants. These zippers allowed for ventilation during climbs and made removing the pants far more enjoyable when covered in mud. A bonus was being able to adjust my knee pads without having to drop my trousers trail side.

One feature in particular that I found to be a weak point of the Trouser II was the hip pockets. Between the pocket hole being on the smaller side and the flap covering the zipper facing the wrong direction, the pockets were difficult to utilize. This was even more apparent when attempting to use the pockets with gloves on. 

I was also surprised by the lack of waistband adjustability, which I generally prefer. The elastic built into the waistband was flimsy and didn't hold the pants around my hips during rides. This was especially noticeable when the pants would get heavy with mud and begin to sag. A velcro adjustment would be an awesome addition, but luckily the provided belt loops paired with a classy leather belt did the trick.

Overall, the Trouser II functioned exceptionally well for its intended use as a lightweight winter pant. The features I would improve upon are not deal breakers, and the pants successfully kept me dry, warm and ventilated in poor conditions. 

MT500 Waterproof Short II

• Exceptionally breathable and durable ExoShell 40DR 3-Layer waterproof fabric in a fully seam-sealed construction
• PFC-Free, non-toxic, durable water repellent finish
• Pre-shaped for great on-bike articulated fit and stretch panels for unrestricted movement
• Water-resistant hand pockets
• Extra durable seat panel
• Longer inseam length and dropped front knee eliminate pad gap
• Belt loops and zipped fly with popper closure
• Clickfast™ compatible
• 90 Day satisfaction guarantee
• Colorways: Black, Nutmeg
• Sizes: S to XXL (31-41-inch waist)
• MSRP: $139.99 USD

Initially, the Waterproof shorts II looked excessively long, but the length was perfect once I put them on. The end of the shorts landed around the center of my kneecap, and the leg opening was spacious with knee pads on without being too baggy.

Just like the Waterproof Trousers, the shorts featured a pre-shaped articulated fit that was super comfortable to pedal in. There were no uncomfortable seams in the butt area, and they did a great job keeping my butt dry during the wettest rides. Unfortunately, the shorts also used a similar pocket design to the Trousers. With the flap over the zipper facing forward, the zipper area collected water, and I struggled to finagle my hand into the pockets with gloves on. Again, not a huge issue that didn't limit the performance of the shorts, and overall, the shorts proved to be an excellent piece of gear for shoulder-season riding. They kept my butt dry in wet, muddy conditions and remained comfortable after hours of pedaling. 

Hummvee Flannel Shirt

• High stretch, fast-wicking thermal main body fabric
• Athletic cut for non-flap race fit
• Two chest pockets with snap closure
• Full-length snap button closure 
• Wrist pocket for lift ticket storage
• Reflective trims
• Eyewear wipe 
• Colorways: Ensign Blue, Bottle Green
• Sizes: S to XXL
• MSRP $94.99 USD

I'm a fan of wearing flannels during colder months, and I wondered how the Hummvee Flannel would differ from the cheap ones I typically thrash on the trails. Retailing for less than $100, it's not super expensive, but cheaper options are out there.

First and foremost, the Ensign Blue colorway we tested looked fantastic, and the brown leather Endura patch on the breast pocket was a nice touch. The fit was more athletic than I usually wear, and at first, the sleeves were a tad tight and a little restrictive. However, as I got used to the flannel, the sleeve fitment was not problematic, and I grew to enjoy the snug fit. That being said, my biggest complaint with the Hummvee flannel was the sleeve pocket just above the left cuff.  

The concept of storing a lift pass ticket on the inside of your forearm is creative and practical. However, the extra material creating the pocket tended to bunch up and become uncomfortable. I also wear a watch on my left wrist, which did not pair nicely with the thick sleeve. 

On a more positive note, I have broad shoulders, and the stretch fabric of the Hummvee Flannel provided a comfortable, unrestricted range of motion. The claim of "fast-wicking thermal main body fabric" was in fact true. The flannel never got heavy or wet with sweat, keeping me warm and dry during damp, crisp rides. The added reflective material was also appreciated for those inevitable Fall rides where daylight fades sooner than expected. Overall, the Hummvee is a good-looking, athletic-fitting flannel that performs well as a single layer during chilly shoulder season rides or as a mid-layer when combined with a waterproof outer shell.

Hummvee Waterproof Socks II

• 3 Layer construction
• Waterproof, highly breathable stretch membrane
• Stretch arch support
• Long leg length for maximum coverage
• Unpadded construction, ideal for close-fitting shoes
• Colorways: Black, Forest Green, Rust Red
• Sizes: S-M // L-XL
• MSRP $49.99 USD

Cold and wet feet can make an amazing ride a miserable ride really quickly. I've ridden wool socks in the past that are too thick and limit my ability to feel my feet and pedals. The Hummvee Waterproof socks did a great job balancing thickness, warmth and keeping my feet comfortable in my shoes. The sizing of the socks was spot on, and the mid-height length did not interfere with my knee pads or ever slip down. 

The 3 layer construction did have a stiff and plastic bag-like feel the first time I slipped them on. But once my feet warmed up the socks, the material felt like typical socks. The ankle cuff was not too tight or loose and remained comfortably in place during long rides. Overall, the quality and durability of the Hummvee socks were impressive. They performed as intended, keeping my feet warm and dry, and they will be my go-to socks for the rest of winter.

What's the Bottom Line?

Endura is known for producing quality gear, and their latest MT500 collection provides riders with premium performance against nature's worst. Every piece of gear tested successfully kept me warm, dry, and comfortable while riding in less-than-ideal conditions. With a few minor tweaks in specific areas, the entire line could arguably be the best wet-weather gear option available on the market. The price points are steep, but the durability of the new Exo Shell outer layer can handle plenty of abuse without issue. Between the fit, finish, and materials quality, the MT500 collection is perfect for year-round riders wanting winter gear that will last multiple seasons of aggressive use. 

For more information, please visit us.endurasport.com

Tested by: Willem Cooper // Age: 34 // Years Riding MTB: 22 // Height: 6' 10" (177cm) // Weight: 180-pounds (81.6kg)

Willem is a career racer and staple in the east scene, best known for his years traveling the US, attending Regional and National events while operating Voncooper Racing. With a US National downhill title to his name, the Rhode Island native is now a full-time enduro coach and can be found racing up and down the east coast almost every weekend during the summer.