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REVIEW

Mission Workshop Jersey and Shorts

Photos Deniz Merdano (unless noted otherwise)
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As a contributor to NSMB.com, one of my favourite things is exploring a brand or product I've never heard of before. I was asked to review a jersey and shorts from Mission Workshop. According to their website they've been making stuff from their shop in San Francisco Mission District, since 2009. They also claim to have made the Original MTB Short in 1994. With nearly 30 years experience in making shorts, one would expect they've got quite good at it. I clicked on Products and it seems they make some tidy looking cycling centric bags, as well as both technical and casual apparel. It all looks very nice, until I looked at the prices. $220 CDN for a jersey? $280 CDN for a pair of shorts? What?

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The Mission Workshop jersey and shorts seem to fit in on any sort of dirt oriented bike ride. Photo by Dylan Wolsky.

Mission Pro Tech Long Sleeve Tee

First up, let's take a look at the Mission Pro Tech Long Sleeve Tee. I was initially a bit concerned that every pic of someone in the Mission Pro Tee was just wearing a chamois. Now I'm not anti-chamois, I'm just more of a a baggy shorts or downhill pants kinda guy. And the price was $220 CDN. Could this jersey really be worth almost double what a high end jersey would cost from NF, Leatt, Rapha, etc?

Mission Workshop claims "The Mission Pro Tech Tee : LS is constructed with an Italian open-knit dimensional-mesh that exponentially increases surface area for breathability and rapid drying. Enhanced wicking is accomplished by two different yarns that create a differential that pulls moisture away from the body. Works perfectly as a base layer, a jersey alternative or simply as a high-performance long sleeve tee for everyday wear." I'm going to honest, at first glance this all sounds like Grade A marketing wank to me. I look at the sizing chart, get a measuring tape, awkwardly measure myself hoping the neighbours can't see, and decide I'm an extra medium. Email sent. A few days later the box shows up and it's a bit short on my neanderthal arms and long torso. Oh man I can't wait to tear this Mission Workshop stuff apart in this review. I request a size large instead of going full Winnie the Pooh in a size medium. A few days later, a size large shows up. I put it on, and the fit is perfect.

goodyear newton tires Deniz Merdano Tim Coleman

On and off the bike the fit of the Mission Pro Tech Tee was spot on. It seems to stretch in all the right ways, but never feels baggy.

With the size sorted, I wore it around the house for a bit, and found myself reluctant to take it off. The fabric stretch and texture feels so nice. One my first rides in the Pro Tech Tee is a gravel ride from Whistler to Squamish on the new Santa Cruz Stigmata. The ride started at 10°C and raining ... alot. Somehow I wasn't cold. As it warmed up through the day, it stopped raining, and the Pro Tech Tee dried almost instantly. Then there was a grunty climb, and noticed I was somehow not hot and sweaty, just the right temperature. Weird.

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One of my first rides in the Mission Workshop kit; a cold, wet, gravel ride. Photo by Dylan Wolsky.

Then things got weirder. I picked it up the next day and it didn't smell. Like, at all. And after a 3 hour ride. I checked the tag and confirmed it wasn't wool. So I rode in it again, this time a big sweaty all day double alpine ride. The sort of ride that leaves everything you're wearing crisscrossed in salt lines like a topo map. Once again I was plenty warm enough in the breezy alpine, but didn't overheat working my way out of the hot sticky valley on the notoriously long and steep Into the Mystic climb. The Pro Tech Tee seems to have all of the quick drying characteristics of a poly jersey, with all of the insulating properties of a wooly, but without ever feeling clammy and heavy like a wooly when it's wet. It always hangs perfectly, with just the right amount of stretch. Much like a wooly, it never seems to stink. But it doesn't shrink at all with a wash and dryer cycle. The fabric feels great against the skin, and never abrasive. The Pro Tech Tee seems to have all the best characteristics of a wooly and a poly tee wrapped up into one jersey.

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Comfortable in the Mission Workshop kit, even when doing things well outside the intended use of the bike you're riding. Photo by Dylan Wolsky.

The Tech Pro Tee has also been the source of the most compliments I've had about a piece of clothing. A number of folks have asked, "Hey, what jersey is that, it looks awesome," which is odd given the very understated colour and graphics. The cut, the texture, and the way it fits is fantastic. The Tech Pro Tee has quickly risen to my favourite riding tee as it seems to perform so well at keeping me warm, keeping me cool, not feeling clammy, not stinking, not shrinking in the wash, and looking great.

Mission Workshop Traverse Short

On to the shorts then. Getting the right fit for the shorts was much easier than the jersey. I'm a size 34 in everything, and the 34 Traverse Shorts fit perfectly. The Traverse Short has a built in belt thing that seems to give a great fit, while being comfortable, and holding the shorts up reliably.

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Much like the jersey, the size 34 shorts fit me perfectly. Photo by Dylan Wolsky.

The fabric feels quite light, with just the right amount of stretch. I like the relatively open leg that provides ample clearance to knee pads. My only critique about the Traverse Short is the pockets. They're positioned towards the backside of the leg, which is a great place to minimize damage to your phone in a crash, but awkward when sitting on anything other than a bike saddle. So while the pockets are probably best placed for being on the bike, you wind up sitting on your keys, wallet and phone, especially if your car has bucket seats. The pockets are also a bit small. My Pixel 7 Pro in a slim case barely fits inside.

The Traverse Short material seems to have a DWR-like coating that beads water. This keeps you dryer than you'd expect. Although the material feels like it's on the light side, the shorts have been relatively tough. I've had a few falls in them, including one in the bike park on rocks, and there were no tears or damage to the shorts (just my ego). On the inside, all the seams are taped which seems have an added benefit of making them a bit more comfortable for those of us running Cham-less Technology (CT™).

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Whether on a gravel bike ride, or yanking for a gap in the local mountains the Mission Workshop kit always looks good.

Similar to the jersey, the shorts never seemed to get stinky, even after riding them a few days in a row. In the last month I've ridden in these shorts 20+ times, with a ton of time in the saddle. There isn't a single stitch that's come loose, and no fading in colour. The fit is exactly the same as when they arrived. The seams seem to be taped on these shorts, and there is no degradation or wear to the internal features. The snaps on the waist above the zipper are just as snappy as new.

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I love the muted tones of the jersey and shorts, blending perfectly into the local mountains colour scheme.

After a month in the Mission Workshop Pro Tech Tee and the Stage Short I can say they're easily my favourite riding jersey and shorts. The only thing I don't love are the pockets on the shorts. I wish they were a bit deeper, and I sit on my wallet / keys in my cars bucket seats. The pocket position is a weird one thought because they're riding shorts, and this placement is better for riding, but taking things out of my pockets when getting in the car is annoying. Fine I'm being a princess.

Both the jersey and shorts are so comfortable to wear on the bike through a wide range of conditions and neither seems to get stinky, they're easy to care for, quick drying and seem durable. The big question is, are the Mission Workshop Pro Tech Tee and Stage short worth the $500? Would I walk into a store now, and buy this jersey and shorts? One word answer; yes. I've been wrestling with this for a few weeks now because they're really expensive. How do I justify the price? I can't say the shorts are twice as good as a quality $140 pair of shorts because I can't quantify the goodness. But I love how versatile these pieces are, and they could easily replace a few shorts and jerseys in my closet. From a sustainability perspective I'd rather spend more on something like this than a light weight summer jersey, three quarter sleeve jersey and a merino long sleeve. And while I haven't had these, I believe they're going to last a long time.

If I add up how much I enjoy wearing the jersey and shorts, the wider range of conditions I'll ride them in, and the expected durability, I think I can justify that they're worth the price. From a less analytical perspective I've just really enjoyed wearing thesm, and can't wait to wear them on the next ride. I never thought I'd be recommending spending this much on a jersey and shorts, but here we are.

The Mission Workshop Pro Tech Tee and Stage Shorts are simply wonderful pieces of kit.

Missionworkshop.com

Timmigrant
Tim Coleman

Age: 41

Height: 183 cm / 6'

Weight: 87 kg / 192 lbs

Ape Index: 1.055 / +10 cm

Inseam: 81 cm / 32"

Preferred Riding: Gravity Mountain Bike

Bar Width: 800 mm

Preferred Reach: 500 - 520 mm (but this is stack and head angle dependent)

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Comments

pablobell
+16 dhr999 fartymarty hotlapz roil Andy Eunson DanL Vik Banerjee grcgrc BarryW lewis collins Lowcard vunugu UMichael Tjaard Breeuwer bigbrett NewGuy

You dont need deep pockets on the shorts when all your money went on the shorts themselves

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Timmigrant
+2 Tjaard Breeuwer NewGuy

LOL, I had written a joke about how light my wallet felt in these shorts, but felt like it was a bit disingenuous given I didn't pay for them. So thanks for the follow through!

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Offrhodes42
+6 ackshunW mnihiser Tim Coleman Hbar Tjaard Breeuwer NealWood

That slab ride!!!!

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mnihiser
+2 hardtailhersh Tjaard Breeuwer

Holy f***! If you are doing that here in Ohio, you are way off the trail and headed for your doom. Guess I'm just a guy who rides mountain bikes- not a mountain biker.

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Timmigrant
+2 hardtailhersh Tjaard Breeuwer

Plan a trip out to Vancouver and check out the trails between Vancouver and Pemberton. There are so many amazing trails with big slab rides here, and so much fun to ride.

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Hbar
+1 Tjaard Breeuwer

Beautiful picture! though that slab roll looks more like directed falling than riding (at least it would if I was doing it :) )

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toodles
+4 Andy Eunson Tjaard Breeuwer JVP Tim Coleman

I'd print and frame that shot if that was me.  Banger photo and the riding and scenery are amazing.

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babyzhendo
+4 DanL Andy Eunson Tim Coleman Tjaard Breeuwer

Definitely a company that I too wanted to hate - though when a lot of stuff from 7Mesh, Rapha, etc. cost nearly as much, I'd rather pony up for the Made in USA option.

On the much more affordable end of things, they make a simple $28 tool roll...and its awesome. Just the right size for tossing under the seat in your car, and fits everything you might need (pump, sealant, full size allens, extra hanger, etc.)

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andy-eunson
0

Tool roll in the car. Brilliant. I never thought to do that.

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pete@nsmb.com
+1 Tim Coleman

I leave one of almost everything in the car (lube, multi tool, tube, pressure gauge, tire levers, spare pair of riding gloves, shock pump, floor pump, small bottle of sealant, AXS charger). Good peace of mind.

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Abies
+4 Joseph Crabtree Tim Coleman Tjaard Breeuwer DancingWithMyself

Good clothing has a bigger comfort and performance impact than most bike components, although it took me many years to accept this. That realization has gotten me into the Rapha and Patagonia range, maybe some Mission stuff will be next.

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Tjaardbreeuwer
+1 Tim Coleman

True. And while the price of this stuff is high relative to others, it’s still less than a 12 speed casette, or a carbon bar…

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cooperquinn
+3 Tim Coleman DanL DancingWithMyself

Mission Workshop and Acre Supply are worth every penny.

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DancingWithMyself
+6 Andrew Major Andy Eunson Tim Coleman vunugu Tjaard Breeuwer Pete Roggeman

The shorts absolutely are.  RIP Kitsbow, which made great stuff. But the shorts are better and more durable than Kitsbow.  For example, have had Kitsbow seams start to unravel.  Mission Workshop rock solid.  

One really nice aspect that wasn't touched on is the waist sizing in 1" increments.  Way easier to get a perfect fit with Mission Workshop.  And the waist adjustment is divine and gives a large range without awkward bunching.

I don't think Andrew has explained to us how min-max applies to apparel, but I have a price is not object approach to shorts and liners.  For basic long and short-sleeve tops, I tend buy whatever non-bike-specific, decent quality stuff I can find on sale.  

If I had to bet on what I'll still be using a decade from now, I'd probably put my money on these shorts over any bike component I currently own.  The only standard that could make them obsolete is my waist, and I have a fair bit of control over that.  And in may ways a pair of shorts is way more feasible (both technically and economically) to repair than a component.

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Timmigrant
+2 Tjaard Breeuwer DancingWithMyself

Great points all round, and 100% agree!

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pete@nsmb.com
+1 DancingWithMyself

I still have a pair of Kitsbow shorts I first tested in 2014. The seams are fine although there's some thinning of material here and there. For simple tops in warm weather I agree, but when the temperatures dip is when I think carefully spent money is important, whether it's rain layers or base layers, getting that stuff right makes the difference between enjoying the ride in bad weather and looking forward to the next one, or hanging up the bike for a week or two at a time because I came home miserable.

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BarryW
+3 Ride.DMC GB utopic

As a happy user of NF gear I don't mind paying some fair prices for 'locally' made gear in a place where people make real wages. 

But...

These seem to be priced a lot higher and are made all over. Not in San Francisco where the company is based. Not saying that's bad, just that I like the NF program of making the stuff where the company is. How is outsourcing to New York different than outsourcing to Bangladesh? Sure, I get that the distances are quite different, but the point is to move production out of the local area to someplace cheaper. So how is this different?

Sure, I'll bet it's pretty great stuff, but like 7Mesh it feels like a 'premium' product and then they price it as such to convince us all while making pretty massive profits. I think I'm keep giving my money to NF for now.

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Timmigrant
+1 BarryW

I like NF stuff, I really like that it's made here in Vancouver, but I'm finding this Mission Workshop stuff a step up in quality. I've had multiple pairs of their pants and jerseys. My first pair of pants didn't make it through a second winter season before coming apart in the crotch, and went all thin and white in the ass before that. My second pair of burgundy pants have started to white ass now. Hopefully I'll get another winter out of them. The NF merino wool jersey is nice, but there's something abrasive about it that chafes my nipples, and doesn't keep me comfy through as wide a range of temperatures and conditions as the MW tee.

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BarryW
0

Good feedback. Would you attribute that to lesser; design, materials or construction quality?

Saying a fabric doesn't last as long is a lot different than the stitches are falling out. Or that the design is lesser.

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Timmigrant
+1 BarryW

I'd say the MW materials are the biggest factor in why I like them more. But the construction quality and overall design are a step up as well. Like I said tho, I love the local guys, and I think NF is good value for money.

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andy-eunson
0

Oddly enough, the first Acre rain jacket I bought from Mission Workshop was made here in Vancouver.

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TristanC
+2 Tim Coleman DancingWithMyself

I've worn the Mission Workshop Traverse XC shorts for two years now, they still look new. To me, they're worth the hefty price tag. Light and breathable, which I find important with you're riding chamois-less.

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Timmigrant
+1 TristanC

That's a good point about the breathability of these shorts, I should have touched on that. They breath well, and dry quickly, making them extra good for mid-ride lake dips!

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Vincent66
+2 DancingWithMyself Tim Coleman

These shorts have been around for a while now. I bought my pair in 2014 and they have been used on almost all my rides. Not a single stich came loose, material is in great condition despite several crashes, zippers still work, snap button as well, etc.

It may not be 100% made locally, but it is a fantastic piece of clothing especially made for biking. If the fit is good for you, then you’ll want to wear them all the time.

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andy-eunson
+1 Tim Coleman

Their stuff is nice. Really nice. And not inexpensive. I bought a couple hoodies from them on sale a few years ago. Some kind of polyester with a wind resistance of sorts and a bit of water repellent finish to it. I wear them fall and spring and all winter Nordic skiing. Absolutely fantastic. I’ve seen their shorts and was always hesitant to buy them due to the cost. I keep hoping for a sale though.

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Timmigrant
0

I'd like to try more of their stuff after such a good experience with this jersey and shorts. Good call on keeping an eye out for a sale!

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Mountain-Cycle-Shawn
+1 BarryW

I don’t know what your specific needs are. And, my research rates are very expensive. If I were you I’d go to the Apparel forum of MTBR.com, read and ask questions.

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Timmigrant
0

This comment has been removed.

nickc
+1 Tim Coleman

I'll add to the general Acre/Mission Workshop love in. I've a couple of bits (the waterproof jacket and a pair of Traverse shorts) from them, and the quality is about the best I've seen in the MTB/gravel world, the shorts especially are perhaps now 9 years old, and they're just beginning to fade on the arse after all the miles I've done in them, but they're still by a margin the most well-made pair of shorts I own. 

I hate to be that guy, but half way through the review the shorts go from being the Traverse to the Stage?

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Timmigrant
0

Woops, that's awkward as they're clearly the Traverse Short!

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Timmigrant
0

I thought I'd post a long-term review comment in here for anyone looking at Mission Workshop clothing. A year on this is still my favourite jersey and short combination. I ride in the shorts and jersey 1-2 days a week on average, and on trips I'll wear them almost every day. The logos on the jersey have kinda peeled off due to so much washing, but otherwise both still look and feel fantastic. There isn't even so much as a single stitch that's come undone. I continue to be impressed. These are well worth the investment.

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Mountain-Cycle-Shawn
-1 BarryW utopic Joseph Crabtree DancingWithMyself Vincent66

Umm yeah, no thanks. They don’t make anything that can’t be found somewhere else for half the price.

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Timmigrant
+2 DancingWithMyself Vincent66

Do you have any suggestions on shorts and jersey that are as high quality for half the price?

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BryceB
0

75% as good for 25% the price would still have me waiting for a sale

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Ride.DMC
+2 BarryW GB

Umm, NF products are as high quality for approx. half the price.  Currently their SVG Race Jersey is $119 CDN - so what's that, 55% of the price?

The Lightweight Trail Short is $175, or 62% of the price.

Admittedly not quite half but close enough considering it's a local outfit (pun intended).

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BarryW
+1 GB

Exactly. All made in their own facility, all local labor. 

NF for the win.

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Timmigrant
0

Like I said above, I like the NF stuff, and I really like that it's made locally, they make fantastic gear at a reasonable price. But as much as I hate to admit it, this Mission Workshop stuff is a step up in fit and quality. I'd personally spend the nearly double on this jersey and shorts over the NF based on my experience so far.

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GB
+1 BarryW

To be honest the article written does not mention what type of materials are used . Such as a spandex / nylon blend. No mention of aramid fiber protection if it does or does not have it . 

No mention of triple stitching. 

Essentially it states comfortable and last long . How do you know? Is this a long term test ? 

Granted most garments have difficulty lasting years or decades .  

I would love to hear some readers stories about beloved shorts that have stood the test of time.  Years or decades of service  

In my opinion the article does little to convince me these justify the 280 $ price tag . 

If someone made a hemp blend material short with triple stitching every seam , built in pockets for knee guards,  aramid protective cloth on hips and ass . Then maybe I would spend 200$ .

Oh these shorts are actually made where ? Asia ? 

Where are the textiles made ? Asia ?

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BarryW
0

While they are NOT made in San Francisco where they are based, they are sewn in the US. See my comment above for my thoughts on that plan. Outsourcing is outsourcing and New York vs San Francisco seems like outsourcing to me. 

Almost certainly of overseas made fabrics.

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JVP
+2 GB NealWood

I make competitor shorts to MW, but have a lot of respect for them. They use USA-made fabric from Tweave, one of the premium quality mills that does military and NFL fabrics. It's really the only USA mill that makes stretch woven fabrics. I'm not sure if the yarns themselves are domestic or Asia. It's crazy expensive fabric.

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BarryW
0

Interesting. What's your brand as I'm super excited about domestically made clothing. 

So on the expensive fabric end, how much (as a percentage) does the fabric cost impact the end garment? Like are we talking a 100% cost increase? But then is that from $10 USD to $20 USD? Or like $60 to $160? I'm sure costs go up, but usually it's the labor that is the single biggest hit on the spreadsheet so I have trouble believing these cost that much more to make because of the fabric. More that the profit margin is just a lot higher. 

But I would genuinely appreciate feedback from someone in the industry.

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