We’ve always been pretty impressed with Zimstern’s dedication to providing a wide range of women’s mountain bike kit. From understated pastels, to loud and proud flouro, they’ve got us covered.

We sent Surrey Hills rider Kimberley Anderson the Vinca Jersey in Atoll (means blue) and the Lofzz Shorts in Neon Orange. Here’s how she got on…

I took this kit out on a rather tough slog of a trip to Woldingham. My ride buddies definately couldn’t miss me, arriving in the bright neon orange Zimstern shorts and the ‘atoll’ coloured long sleeve jersey.

Long sleeve Jersey

This long sleeved jersey is made from recycled polyester and is designed to keep stingy nettles and the such at bay, whilst ensuring the rider doesn’t overheat. The Interlock fabric is quick-drying, and I found I was comfortably dry throughout my ride – even when pushing up the hills.

Zimstern have added elasticated cuffs, which were tight enough to hold the sleeve around the wrist, or further up the arm if I rolled the sleeves up, without being restrictive. A drop tail back meant the top stayed put, even when negotiating twisty descents.

There is a little extra padding around the elbow for a touch of extra protection, and the jersey is available in this bright Atoll, Prune (AKA Purple) and Black.

Verdict: Love it.  Awesome colour scheme, soft and breathable farbric – and the elasticated cuffs are a winner for me.

Zimstern Lofzz Shorts

The shorts are secured by a Velcro system at the top, with the extra benefit of press button studs to make sure they stay put throughout a ride. To help you get the perfect fit, they also have sewn in belt adjusters on the waistline, which is lined with a soft material for comfort.

There is a very clever stretchy panel sewn into the back of the shorts – this fantastic feature allows the waist to stay put, whilst the stretchy panel expands to allow for movement of your bum when in and out of the saddle.

Though we’re getting closer to the colder months, I was still pleased to see two large vents on the front, and the spacious pockets allowed me to get my Sony Z3 in sideways with room to spare for a couple of energy bars, and my hand. In the right pocket, I found a handy loop sewn in, for attaching keys, and the material was a little thicker there to ensure they didn’t rub.

The shorts, made from recycled materials, are mesh lined. I found very little rubbing between the mtb outer and my lycra padded inner.

On an aesthetic note, I loved the stitched message on the inside of the hem and leg, which reads: “Santa Stella, protect me from the car drivers, snake bites and broken bones” – a nice touch.

In terms of colour, the neon orange colour is not going to be to everyone’s taste but it does mean you will always be seen. If you don’t fancy it, there are Black and Atoll (blue) versions.

Verdict: I really like the high quality of these shorts. They are comfortable, practical and the little touches to the finish give them top marks… even the neon orange has grown on me.

Find and buy:

Vinca Jersey: €69.95 (around £50) here

Loffz Shorts: €109.95 (around £80)  here

Shipping to the UK is €10, if the order is under €100 (good excuse to buy them as a set…!)

Check out the rest of Zimstern’s Spring/Summer range – we’re looking forward to testing the new autumn kit.