Merlin Christmas Gift Guide

The festive season is upon us and time is beginning to run short. Don’t worry if you haven’t even begun thinking about doing your Christmas shopping yet (believe me, I haven’t either), we’ve got your back. 

We’ve pulled together some must-have Merlin items that every biker in your life needs, catering for every budget. Tap on each product to learn more.

Stocking stuffers…

A little can mean an awful lot. Check out our range of smaller items perfect for stuffing a stocking with.

Small but mighty…

Just because these items are small in size, it doesn’t mean they don’t come from the heart.

Go big or go home!

If you’re really feeling flush this festive season, take a look at these picks…

If our gift guide has sparked your imagination and you want to get your hands on an item, you have two options. Firstly, you can head over to our Store Finder, enter your postcode and find your nearest Merlin stockist. Or, you can visit our UK Shop + and order directly from us from the comfort of your sofa.

Published on December 14, 2022 by Emily Macbeth

Merlin’s Autumn Winter 2022 range has arrived

T’is the season for an all-new product launch from Merlin. Heading into the typically colder seasons we’re focusing on ways to keep you warm and cosy as you embark on those chilly rides.

Have a browse through what’s new from us this Autumn/Winter.

Just landed…

Mahala Pro 3-in1 D3O® Jacket and Trousers

The new lead in the Explorer Collection, Mahala Pro offers the widest levels of versatility yet. 

Building upon the early success of the Mahala jacket, Mahala Pro incorporates separate thermal and waterproof liners which can be switched in and out depending on what kind of weather you’re tackling at the time. 

When it gets really hot, remove both liners and open the two large chest vents for superior levels of cool airflow.

The Cordura® cotton outer is backed by a seven-piece suite of D3O® armour pre-fitted to the shoulders, elbows, back and chest. The outer has also received a water repellent treatment, meaning rain will bead off the outside instead of soaking in.

Pockets aplenty both inside and out on the Mahala Pro jacket mean there’s plenty of space to carry belongings, while multiple fit adjustment points to the bicep, forearm, cuff, waist and hem allow you to achieve a more personalised fit.

Available in sizes S-4XL in black or olive.

The matching Mahala Pro 3-in-1 trousers benefit from the same great versatile lining system as the jacket, with D3O® armour pre-fitted to the hips and knees. They’re also available in sizes S-4XL in a regular (32in) leg length, with the black option only also available in short (30in).

Exile D3O® Jacket

When the Drifter jacket had such a positive reception, we decided we wanted to introduce an even more capable version to take on even more weather conditions.

The Exile jacket uses Halley Stevensons® 100% organic ripstop cotton in its outer construction, making for a futureproof yet highly durable garment. It receives a fluorocarbon-free water repellent finish and uses 45% less CO2e and 50% less water in production, which may sound like a load of technical jargon but in essence means the material is eco-friendly and better for our planet by minimising waste.

Behind the organic outer sits a Texland Humax® fixed waterproof membrane along with a 125g zip-out thermal lining for full weatherproofing. Ventilation zips on the front and rear allows for further airflow.

D3O® shoulder, elbow and back armour is pre-fitted and there are provisions for two pieces of D3O® CP1 split chest armour if required. 

Exile launches in sizes S-4XL in black or green.

Tewkesbury Cotec Jacket

Spearheading the new additions to our Heritage range this Autumn Winter, Tewkesbury sits as the most affordable full-length Cotec jacket.

Made from our exclusive 8oz collaboration wax with Halley Stevensons®, Tewkesbury combines high-street styling with motorcycle-based protection. With a water-repellent outer treatment and a 70g thermal wadding hidden within the inner tartan lining, it’s a great option for riders who still want to look good while riding deeper into the Autumn.

D3O® armour sits at the shoulders and elbows and their Viper Stealth back protector in size large can be added if necessary.

Adjustable fit points at the arms, waist and hem allow for a snugger fit, while the inclusion of a jacket-to-jean connecting zip and Euro hoop allow easy attachment of jeans.

Tewkesbury is available now in black or olive in sizes S-4XL.

Yuri Down Jacket

Merlin does mid-layers. Introducing Yuri, the perfect packable mid-layer which can effortlessly be worn both under a bike jacket and on its own when out and about.

Constructed from mini ripstop nylon, Yuri is stuffed with down feathers for superior levels of warmth without being heavy. The mid-length cut, elastic cuffs and short collar ensure full comfort if worn underneath a bike jacket.

Yuri launches in sizes S-4XL in black only.

Bramshaw Laminate Rain Jacket

The Bramshaw jacket is a fashion orientated over-jacket option for riders who want to combine both fashion and function. Easily stored in its convenient carry bag, Bramshaw can be put on at a moment’s notice when the weather turns.

With laminated waterproofing, Bramshaw is a highly technical and lightweight solution that dries quickly.

Launching in black only in sizes S-3XL.

Atacama Merino Base Layer Top and Trousers

The blend of polyester and Merino used in the Atacama base layer top and trousers makes for a highly moisture wicking and breathable combo.

Australian Merino wool fibres can absorb up to 35% of their own weight in moisture without feeling wet, keeping you warm and dry on even the coldest of days. Meanwhile, the polyester helps to provide durability and wick moisture for temperature regulation.

Both the top and trousers are available in sizes S-3XL.

Heated gloves

Following on from the success of our heritage Minworth heated gloves we’re releasing three new pairs – one for each of our collections; Explorer, Heritage and Leisure Moto.

Summit joins our Explorer range, with a Polarfleece® thermal lining, Hipora® waterproofing and multi-stage heating elements. The D3O® knuckle armour is externally covered with SuperFabric®, and the two 2200mah rechargeable batteries last four hours with mid level usage. Available in sizes S-4XL.

The Longdons join our Minworth heated gloves in the Heritage range, with a Polarfleece® thermal lining and Hipora® waterproofing. D3O® protection adorns the knuckles and the two rechargeable 2200mah batteries are stored discreetly on the inside of the cuff. Available in sizes S-4XL.

Finally, Finchley proves a welcome addition to the Leisure Moto Collection. The perfect urban heated glove, they come with two slightly smaller capacity 1100mah batteries, making them perfect for the commute. A Thinsulate® thermal lining provides extra warmth, while a Hipora® waterproof lining looks after waterproofing. Available in sizes S-4XL and also in ladies sizes LXS-L2XL. 

Coming soon…

We’re not done yet! More is on the way…

Adana D3O® Boot

Our newest do-it-all adventure boot built with rider comfort and protection at its core without sacrificing the signature Merlin styling.

Adana utilises the Merlin-exclusive Hipora® Triple Liner for full waterproofing, while protection is provided by D3O® inserts, a reinforced footbed and a reinforced shin plate. They’re also the first Merlin boot to use an EVA sole; a two-layer construction for enhanced shock absorption, grip and abrasion.

The double ratchet closure on the outer side pairs with the Velcro shin tab to offer a secure and comfortable fit and an anti-bacterial insert keeps stinky soles at bay.

Upon launch, they will be available in black only in sizes UK 7-13.

Teton D3O® Boot

If you like the adventure styling of Adana but want something even more true-to-Merlin, the Teton boots will be exactly what you’re looking for. 

Made from a premium cowhide leather with Amara contrast panels, the Teton boots take on a heritage style with typically touring features. 

Making use of the Merlin-exclusive Hipora® Triple Liner, Teton are waterproof as well as breathable. D3O® impact protectors sit at the ankles for protection while an adjustable ankle ratchet and wrap-around Velcro shin tab offer a more secure fit.

Once they arrive, they’ll be available in black or brown in sizes UK 7-12.

Drax II D3O® Boot

A customer favourite, our Drax boots proved incredibly popular during their time in our Heritage range. That’s why, for Autumn Winter ‘22, we’ve decided to give them a makeover.

With the welcome addition of D3O® armour, new patterns, a new sole and even more comfort padding (to name just a few upgrades), Drax II just got even better.

They keep the Hipora® Triple Liner waterproofing, handy gear changer protector patches and lace fastening with speed hooks.

Upon launch, Drax II will be available in black or brown in sizes UK 7-12.

You can locate your nearest stockist using our Store Finder, and if you have any questions about the new collection you can email us at info@merlinbikegear.com.

Published on Friday, 2nd December 2022 by Emily Macbeth

Merlin returns to Europe’s biggest bike show

This year, we’re back and bigger than ever at Europe’s biggest bike show.

The EICMA Motorcycle Show runs from 8th-13th November at Fiera Milano, Italy and plays host to some of the motorcycle industry’s biggest and best names.

Whether you’re looking to try the latest and greatest in machinery or want to see what’s new in the world of protective kit, EICMA has something to cover all areas of biking from head to toe. 

We’ll be back in full force at this year’s show, with 120 square metres dedicated to all things Merlin. Here’s what you can expect from us if you come to see us this year…

Our biggest and best yet!

As the world begins to return to some kind of normality, we return to EICMA with a fully stocked stand. 

While our ‘meeting hub’ stand in 2021 proved a hit, we missed having product on display to share with the world – press, trade and public alike.

This year, we’re making it our mission to show off our best side, giving our three collections – Explorer, Heritage and Leisure Moto – their own spaces to thrive in three separate product pods each with their own bike to best represent the category. 

The 2023 Collection breaks cover for the first time

Alongside showcasing the Merlin classics, our full 2023 Collection will break its cover for the first time.

We’re expanding all three of our collections to include a host of innovative items with a core focus on rider comfort and protection without sacrificing on style. While we can’t give out too much information at this stage, just be assured that 2023 is set to be a cracking year for us and our product.

Meet the people behind the brand

We’re not hiring people to do this for us. Throughout the days of the show, you’ll see the people who make Merlin happen. From sales to marketing to finance, we’ll all be chipping in and we can’t wait to meet you! 

And don’t worry if you can’t make it…

We know it’s not always that easy to drop everything and fly off to biking paradise for a few days. That’s why we’re going to bring the show to you instead.

Head over to our Instagram – merlinbikegear to follow all of the action from the Merlin stand and beyond. Over the course of the week, from the building of our stand to its break down, we’ll be posting a host of content to bring the 2022 EICMA show straight into your hands.

And if you are attending this year’s show, please do pop by for a coffee and to see what we have in store. 

Hall 24, Stand E71 – see you there? 

Published on November 4th, 2022 by Emily Macbeth

Merlin awarded Best Value Textile Brand in Bennetts customer survey

Back in May, Bennetts conducted a survey of their 1,898 Bike Social community members to find out what riders look for in their protective bike kit, to serve as a guide for other bikers as they look to choose their next set of gear.

The survey covered every area you could possibly think of – from the warmth offered to waterproofing and pocket usability/capacity. At the end of the video Bennetts published to reveal the results, the scores were tallied up and three categories were awarded – and we’re very pleased to share that we were the lucky recipients of one of those awards!

The Bennetts Bike Social community voted Merlin as the Best Value Textile Brand, but it’s not just in the overall category where we excelled. 

Within the three final categories: Best Value, Best Made and Brand Satisfaction we consistently finished within the top five, both joining and beating some of the biggest names in the industry.

Throughout the video, various categories were covered off where Merlin performed well above average. 

In the ‘pockets: ease of use & capacity’ category, customers voted Merlin as the top dog. We know that carrying backpacks on bikes can be cumbersome and sometimes, panniers and top boxes just aren’t practical. So we pack in the pockets wherever we can to make things easier for our riders, and we’re grateful that our customers appreciate it just as much as we do. Check out the graph below for the full results.

Elsewhere, we also shone in the Most Waterproof category, ‘Main Zip: Ease of Use and Security’ category and the Fit category. Take a look at the graphs in the carousel below to see how we stacked up.

We’re genuinely chuffed to have been voted the Best Value Textile Brand. At Merlin, it has always been our mission to deliver high quality, stylish and protective motorcycle clothing at an attainable price point that is accessible to every kind of rider, and we’re proud to have been recognised for that by the people who know us best – our customers.

Interested in seeing the full results? Head over to the Bennetts YouTube channel here to view the full video.

Bennetts also tested out the Monty jacket and Lombard trousers. Read John’s review here.

Published on September 9, 2022 by Emily Macbeth

The Biker Collective joins Merlin at Burntwood HQ

On July 1st we were finally able to round up Annette, Zak and Nate – a.k.a The Biker Collective for a day at Merlin, consisting of product training and ending with a ride-out and photoshoot on Cannock Chase.

A typically drizzly start to the day didn’t dampen the spirits of the Collective. Arrival at our HQ from a bright-eyed trio proved instantly that they were eager to learn more about Merlin and the product we offer.

After peeling themselves out of their damp bike gear, Annette pulled a box of beautiful bike-shaped shortbreads out of her bag that she’d made herself – much to the delight of the Collective and the entire Merlin team (including those who weren’t even in the room!)

Sitting down in the Merlin showroom with coffees in hand, the day began with an introduction to the brand. Here the Collective learned more about how the Merlin brand came to be; from the people behind the brand to how we got to where we are today, and about our plans for the future.

Then, to the most exciting part – the product. Moving through the three core collections – Explorer, Heritage and Leisure Moto, we spoke about the key materials that make up each garment and the story behind the collections.

The three rider segments are a key part of Merlin and what we do. They allow us to cover most styles of riding without sacrificing features or quality while all having a distinct style.

Rather than simply being fed lots of technical and confusing information, we encouraged touch and feel – it’s a great way to really begin to understand what we offer. The Collective didn’t need to be told twice – straight away they were reaching for the jackets and trying them on for size as their wish lists got longer (and more expensive!)

With knowledge imparted and Annette, Zak and Nate soaking it up like sponges, they kitted back up into their slightly damp gear and we headed out to Cannock Chase for a ride-out and photoshoot.

Of course, in typical British style the heavens remained open for the entire time but again the vibe wasn’t dampened at all – and a British brand + a rainy photoshoot day seemed rather fitting.

We travelled the few miles to the Chase, parking up in the drizzle to capture some shots of the three of them as well as the Merlin gear they were clad in and of course, their stunning bikes. It was also important to get some images of the Collective together – considering it was their first time meeting each other they were acting like old friends, which was incredibly refreshing for us to see. 

Despite the rain beginning to hit harder, spirits remained high and the three enjoyed (we hope) the opportunity to grab some professional snaps of themselves.

Before heading back to base, we decided to capture a few riding shots with the Collective riding up and back down the road past the photographer to grab some shots of the three of them riding together for the first time. Back and forth, in formation and never stepping out of line – this didn’t appear to be their first rodeo.

We returned to HQ for lunch before the Collective headed home slightly damp, but with heads full of Merlin.

“It was incredibly cool to get an insight into Merlin’s product development process, including raw material selection and creation, alongside the motivation behind the designs. I’m certain the feel, look and utility of (soon-to-be-released) new products are going to excite fans of Merlin.

Also, it was great to hang out with my fellow riders from the Merlin Biker Collective a.k.a. MBC. I’m looking forward to many more ride-outs with them.” Nate said of his day at Merlin HQ.

Zak said: “Being part of the Merlin Biker Collective for me has always been about being closer to the products I know and love to wear each day. During our time together I really got to understand more about why certain products look the way they do, the fabrics used and the features behind them. 

I think the best thing for me was being able to see the whole range in one place like never before and seeing the sheer diversity to the range. The sustainable fabrics now being used inspired me to what the future of the industry could look like and resonated with me. The fact I am not compromising on quality or my own safety by treading a little lighter on the planet was also a key take away from the day. I can’t wait to see what 2022 and beyond brings for the Merlin team. Thanks for having me as one of the squad.”

Finally, Annette said: “I had such an enjoyable full-packed day with the Merlin team and getting to know Nate & Zak the other 2/3rds of the Merlin Biker Collective. The opportunity to be immersed in the Merlin journey, seeing, touching and feeling the collections. It was great to learn about each garment and the array of thoughtful features. 

Published on August 8, 2022 by Emily Macbeth

Three cheers to ABR Festival 2022

Three weeks ago, Merlin rolled up to Ragley Hall, Warwickshire for the 2022 installment of the Adventure Bike Rider Festival.

Our minds have been blown since we launched the Explorer Collection earlier this year, but we knew we had to take things one step further. As Explorer appeals to the adventure riders among us, we wanted to take it to them to gauge reaction… and we weren’t disappointed.

Set in the vast land under the shadow of the beautiful Ragley Hall, ABR Festival has gone from strength to strength since its inception. A three day celebration of everything adventure bike related, ABR Festival also features live music, talks from inspirational figures in the industry, more food than you could shake a stick at and plenty of opportunities for a good time.

So here’s a rundown of Merlin’s time at this year’s edition…

The build… 

Starting with a plain white shell, we wanted to inspire people within. Situated opposite the Yamaha Tenere speakers tent within the exhibitors village, we were in the ideal spot for welcoming riders.

Inside the Merlin marquee, the entire Explorer Collection went on display for the first time. From Mahala to Mojave, every item was available for the public to touch, try on and ask questions about. There were even a few sneaky peaks at our upcoming Autumn Winter ‘22 additions, but we can’t show you those here I’m afraid…

Our two esteemed colleagues, Barry and Dave, sat atop a Triumph Tiger 900 and Honda Africa Twin respectively for the duration of the festival adorned in Explorer, while a chill-out zone in the middle offered the perfect respite for achy biker feet after a long day on the trails.

An iPad ordering point allowed visitors to purchase Merlin gear with an exclusive festival discount of 15% through one of the UK’s largest motorcycle clothing retailers, Sportsbikeshop.

Outside the marquee, the two Merlin-branded vehicles. Which brings us on to our next point…

The stars of the show

Attracting the attention of anyone and everyone who walked past – no, not the gorgeous Merlin staff who manned the stand all weekend – the two Merlin-branded vehicles were difficult to miss. The black and gold van and Defender sat side-by-side, truly stealing the show and attracting choruses of “wow! Is that paint or a wrap?” 

In fact, many people stopped to snap pictures with them over the weekend, so if you were one of those people then please share your pictures with us! 

The people

There’s nothing better than thousands of people who all share the same passions and interests coming together in one place. Over the course of the weekend we met with hundreds of people who just wanted to talk – about the trips they were taking and the epics they’d already been on, about the gear they wore on said epics, and some simply just wanted to talk about us.

While Merlin has been on the bike scene for over ten years, this is our first foray into the adventure segment and while some of those we met already owned Merlin heritage gear, some hadn’t heard of us before. But you best believe they had by the time they left. We proudly introduced ourselves, and subsequently received great feedback from the die-hard adventure riders, with some even purchasing from our Explorer Collection there and then.

The feedback

Everyone we welcomed onto our stand over the weekend was open to learning more about us and exploring the new range for themselves. Outlaw, our new smock, was undoubtedly the most popular item of the weekend, with many complimenting us on its unique styling and on our move towards a more sustainable future.

The buzz

And what a buzz it was. From the set-up day on Wednesday to the take-down day on Sunday, the atmosphere was electric. Everyone was immersed in the live music, the food available and most notably, the seemingly endless amount of opportunities to get out and ride. Be it your own bike or a manufacturer demo, there was something for everyone to get their teeth into.

This is not goodbye…

We had such a cracking time at this year’s festival and feel we really had the opportunity to begin cementing ourselves in this category. Which is why we’re already making preparations for next year’s festival – we just can’t stay away!

If you came to visit us at this year’s Adventure Bike Rider Festival and have pictures you’d like to share, please send them to info@merlinbikegear.com or tag us on Facebook or Instagram @merlinbikegear – we’d love to see them! 

You can also check out our ABR Festival 2022 video on YouTube now.

Early bird tickets for next year’s festival are already on sale, get yours now so you don’t miss out!

Published on Friday, July 15th by Emily Macbeth