I was pretty intrigued by the collaboration between Fjällräven and Specialized combining Swedish hiking functionality with Californian biking expertise. This is when I reached out to test some products of their line.
About Fjällräven
Hailing from the small town of Örnsköldsvik in Sweden, a place where mountains and forest meet the sea, Fjällräven is an outdoor clothing and equipment company that’s committed to making nature more accessible. In true Swedish style, we focus on simplicity and practicality, and we have the utmost respect for the environment.
The s/f Räven anorak
Fjällräven’s classic Räven jacket features Specialized’s on-bike-fit to make this the perfect jacket for both biking and hiking adventures.
Torso in G-1000 Lite Stretch fabric for wind-resistance where it’s most needed, and 4-way stretch on the back and lower sections for great freedom of movement. Reflective details on the articulated, engineered sleeves that have been optimized for bike riding. Two-way zippered ventilation openings in the sides. Secure zippered hand pockets and inside mesh pockets that are reinforced at the bottom. Two chest pockets with snap buttons – perfect for your wallet, phone etc. Easy to pull on and has an adjustable cinch at the hem Stowable hood. Part of the Fjällräven/Specialized series for urban rides and bikepacking adventures.
Testing
During the testing phase in April, as the spring season commenced, the weather proved notably chilly, blustery, and wet, providing the ideal conditions to thoroughly assess the jacket’s capabilities.
To determine my size, I utilized their Fit Finder tool on the website, inputting details such as height, weight, body shape, age, and fit preference. It accurately recommended a medium size, aligning with my expectations. Upon receiving the jacket, I found the fit to be impeccable, a testament to the efficacy of their tool.
In colder temperatures during my rides, my typical attire consists of a base layer, mid layer, and windbreaker. I prefer regulating heat by adjusting zippers rather than combating cold. Employing the same approach with this jacket allowed for a fair comparison with my usual gear.
A particularly rigorous test ride featured a forecast of sunny 10-degree weather, which turned out to be far from accurate. Instead, I encountered a mix of snow, rain, light hail, and eventual sunshine, accompanied by strong winds—a perfect crucible for evaluating the jacket’s performance, which it aced admirably.
The inclusion of 4-way stretch fabric on the jacket’s back enhances comfort, flexibility, and breathability—a boon for gravel biking, underscoring the thoughtful design catering to riders’ needs.
In conclusion
If you’re in search of a versatile jacket with a hiking vibe, the s/f Räven anorak fits the bill perfectly. Fjällräven and Specialized have truly nailed it with this one, making it my new go-to companion for gravel rides and bikepacking adventures.
You can have more information about the Fjällräven’s and Specialized collaboration here:
