Actually, we're pulling legs here.
The quality we build into our products speak for itself and all our kit has been engineered to last for many years or riding, however, when the jerseys reach their natural end of life and finish up in landfill, this is where the magic happens.
Our Jerseys simply disappear in months, unlike typical jerseys that take centuries.
BIODEGRADABILITY
In March 2024, we buried two jerseys side by side. One was our GRVL Polo Jersey, made from Merino Wool and TENCEL™ - natural, biodegradable fibres engineered for performance on the bike and for minimal impact off it.
The other was a conventional synthetic jersey, the kind the industry relies on for convenience and cost, but which leaves a harmful lasting mark on the environment.
We left them underground for two full years. Through changing seasons, rain, frost and sun, both garments endured the same conditions. No interference. No shortcuts. We just let nature do its work.
When we returned in March 2026, the difference was stark. The GRVL polo had broken down, its fibres returning to the soil as intended.
TYPICAL SYNTHETIC KIT
The synthetic (PURPLE) jersey, on the other hand, was completely unchanged - still intact, still wearable, still a huge problem for the planet.
That’s the reality of modern cycling apparel. Most of it doesn’t biodegrade. It lingers in landfill, in soil, in waterways, breaking down into microplastics that outlast us gravelers and the trails we love.
At GRVL, we do things differently.Our approach to sustainable cycling clothing is grounded in performance, not compromise. Our Merino Wool and TENCEL™ blend delivers everything a rider demands - breathability, temperature regulation, durability - while remaining part of a natural cycle. When its life ends, it returns to where it came from.
This isn’t about trends. This is the difference between fast fashion and something built with intent.
We don’t believe in clothing that outlives the environments it was made to explore.
We believe in natural fibres, in sustainable materials, and in building kit that respects the terrain it’s ridden on.
Because the places we ride shouldn’t carry the cost of what we wear.
Ride Nature, Not Plastic.
