Even those with ample outdoor excursion experience know how hard it can be to fit their adventure plans into hectic life schedules filled with endless emails and existential dread. Leading with the predictive statistic that two-thirds of the Earth’s population will be living in towns and cities by 2050, California bike brand Specialized and Swedish outdoor apparel label Fjällräven have joined up to create apparel and gear suitable for adventures closer to home. Collectively, they call it The Great Nearby.
Gear and apparel from the March 15th release focus on pieces for commuters and cruisers. Another drop later this season will bring additional equipment that better suits journeys beyond the backyard.
[Keen to bikepack but want to support smaller brands? Check out the best cottage industry bikepacking bag brands.]
As fans of anorak jackets, the Räven Anorak ($300) is undoubtedly our favorite piece from The Great Nearby’s apparel options. The anorak uses a combination of Fjällräven’s patented G-1000 Lite fabric to provide weather resistance on the chest and front of the sleeves, both strategic locations where rain tends to land while riding a bike. Wearers will undoubtedly find the side zippers useful for ventilation and popping overhead. It comes in both men’s and women’s sizes.
Other wearable items from the collection include a poly-merino blend short sleeve t-shirts, like the patterned Caliswede Short Sleeve Tee ($90) and solid Wool Short Sleeve Tee ($80). Smaller accessories like the co-branded Bucket Hat ($50), Scarf ($30), and Socks ($25) make up some of the most accessible entry points into the collab.
