Curious Creatures is redefining what Bike Garments mean for modern cyclists. This woman-owned brand is making waves by blending performance with a playful spirit and a commitment to accessibility. For men venturing into Curious Creatures’ apparel, the first notable point is their unique sizing system, aligning with women’s numeric sizing. Converting your traditional waist size is a minor step, easily done, and opens up a world of thoughtfully designed bike wear. Forget the hyper-serious, performance-at-all-costs vibe; Curious Creatures injects fun back into cycling apparel. Their promotional videos, featuring riders in whimsical forest creature suits, perfectly encapsulate their ethos: a brand for “weirdos obsessed with exploring our world by bike.” This refreshing approach is a welcome change in the often-stiff world of cycling gear.
The driving force behind Curious Creatures is Natasha Woodworth, whose background is as diverse as the brand itself. From ski racing to fashion design for Lady Gaga, Woodworth’s journey eventually led her to Patagonia and then to establishing Curious Creatures in Bozeman. Her design philosophy prioritizes women, but the appeal of her shorts and shirts extends seamlessly to men seeking versatile and functional bike garments.
The Ramble Scramble shorts are a standout example of Curious Creatures’ design philosophy in bike garments. These shorts have become a favorite for many, including this reviewer, due to their slim fit and shorter 7-inch inseam. This design choice caters to cyclists who value freedom of movement, contrasting with the often-baggy designs of traditional mountain bike shorts. The feeling of being unencumbered on a ride is a significant advantage, enhancing both performance and comfort.
The material of the Ramble Scramble shorts further elevates them as exceptional bike garments. Constructed from Bluesign®-certified polyester fabric with a PFC-free DWR treatment, they offer a remarkable combination of stretch, durability, and responsible sourcing. The single-ingredient polyester construction also means these shorts are designed with recyclability in mind, aligning with eco-conscious values. Practical features like a drawstring waist, button closure, front and rear pockets, and a zippered side pocket add to their utility, making them perfect for carrying essentials like phones or snacks on a ride.
Beyond performance on the bike, the Ramble Scramble shorts excel in everyday wear, embodying the versatility that defines Curious Creatures’ bike garments. They transition effortlessly from trail to town, avoiding the overly technical or sporty look of typical cycling shorts. This adaptability is a key selling point, justifying the $140 price tag for a garment that performs exceptionally on rides and looks great off the bike.
The Cottonwood Long Sleeve Tee complements the shorts, extending the versatility of Curious Creatures’ bike garments into cooler conditions. Made from organic stretch cotton grown in the USA, this tee is comfortable and functional for bike rides on milder days. However, its stylish design also makes it suitable for casual wear, ensuring it remains a valuable piece in any wardrobe, even off the trails.
Curious Creatures’ core mission is to create uniquely designed clothing that seamlessly integrates into various activities – biking, hiking, running, gardening, or simply relaxing. Their garments are built for multi-purpose use, reflecting a modern lifestyle where clothing needs to be adaptable and perform across different scenarios. This “double duty” approach is central to their brand identity.
In conclusion, Curious Creatures offers more than just mountain bike apparel; they provide well-made, stylish, and high-performing bike garments designed for a life that extends beyond the ride. In a market saturated with brands, Curious Creatures stands out with its unique blend of fun, functionality, and accessible design, proving that bike wear can be both playful and practical.
