An odyssey is an epic adventure — the long way round, the climb that doesn’t end, the descent that tests your nerve. We design for riders who treat every ride like a chapter in something bigger.
Browse Best SellersAbout Odyssey Activewear
Our story isn’t as long or as epic as the Ancient Greek Odyssey, but this is how the adventure of Odyssey Activewear began...
Odyssey Activewear started in 2020 as a side project for founder Chris, a graphic designer and mountain biker. When shopping for riding kit, he kept finding the same two options: plain technical layers with no character, or loud, vivid jerseys better suited to a motocross track. He wanted riding gear that looked as good as it performed, so he decided to design his own.
From concept to clothing
A few concepts made for personal use led to late nights experimenting with patterns, colours and visual effects, and then to finding a manufacturer who could bring the designs to life with the technical performance to match. Artwork became clothing templates, fabric and print samples were tested, sizing was refined, and a brand identity and website were built.
No turning back
What began as a quick design experiment had become an odyssey in itself. So much time and money had gone into the project that turning back was no longer an option. Chris pressed on to build Odyssey Activewear into a fully fledged apparel brand, hoping other riders would share his desire for great-looking, functional performance wear.
Outgrowing the spare room
Riders responded straight away, and stock sold out faster than it could be replenished. The inventory moved from a bookcase in the spare room into self-storage facilities, and after outgrowing three units during 2021, Odyssey Activewear moved into its own workshop and office in a business centre on the outskirts of Sheffield in early 2022. All orders are still packed and dispatched from there today.
A small crew
Odyssey Activewear is a small family business. Chris leads design and marketing, his wife Laura manages the finances, and his sister Katie packs and posts every order. We offer free 30-day returns and free UK delivery on orders over £100, and you can earn rewards on your purchases through The Odyssey™, our loyalty programme.
Rider designed, trail tested
Every piece is made for the ride that goes further than planned, and every panel, seam and fabric choice has a purpose. The range has grown from our original jerseys into full riding protection. Our best-selling Shield Trousers were named Mountain Biking UK’s ‘Most Wanted’. Paired with the Shield Jacket, they let you ride fully protected, from top to bottom. Across the range, riders have left us hundreds of 5-star reviews.
