The onset of winter is a near ever-present thought at RCUK HQ and the clocks going back at the weekend did little to ease the feeling of impending doom that comes with every rain shower or cold snap.
But, in truth, the dark days and ice-cold mornings of January and February are some way off and autumn – the no man’s of cycling clothing – has some way to run.
And dhb’s Pace Roubaix 3/4 Tights have provided the perfect remedy to indecisive weather which is too cold for shorts and too warm for full-length tights.
Based on dhb’s award-winning Merston range, an overhaul for 2011 sees these tights now made from Miti’s Lombardia fabric – 235g Italian lycra.
The Roubaix lining is soft to the skin, warm and breathable, while a mesh back means you have control over your upper-body temperature, although there is still plenty of lycra coverage for the all too easily neglected lower back.
A zip at the front makes emergency pit-stops easier, while silicon grippers keep the tights in place on the legs.
As has come to be expected from dhb, the medium tights tested fit like a glove, with a high number of panels – anatomical patterning, according to dhb – allowing the material to adapt to your shape on the bike.
The Merston pad has been upgraded to CyTech Elastic Interface on all Pace tights, with different shapes for men and women ensuring a firm but comfortable option.
The tights are available in black only and the dhb branding is discreet: a silver reflective logo on the back and red logo on the calf.
We’re not going to rule out these tights as a full-blown winter option for those who find full-length tights restrictive – combine with leg warmers and they’re sure to be toasty.
But for a superb autumn option at a great price – £40 from Wiggle – look no further.
