With autumn firmly settled in and winter on its way, manufacturers have been sending us their latest products ahead of the cold months. Here’s what’s recently arrived in the RCUK mailbag…
Winter essentials from Endura
Endura are based in Scotland so they know a thing or two about cold, wet weather. Pictured above is the company’s BaaBaa Long Sleeve Zip Neck Base Layer, the Deluge Zipless Overshoes and the Deluge Gloves.
Endura’s BaaBaa base layers are made from 100 per cent Merino wool and the long sleeve zip neck version we’ve received to test is incredibly soft to touch. Merino has a natural insulating property and holds warmth even when wet – that’s why sheep don’t get cold when stuck out on the hills in winter.
Ergonomic panelling looks to create an anatomic fit that sits close to the skin, while all seams are flat locked for added comfort. Retail price is £55.54.
The Endura Zipless Deluge Overshoes are new this year and are designed for the worst of conditions; they’re made from a neoprene material which feels like the material used on a wetsuit. The stretchy fabric means the overshoes can be pulled on and provide a secure fit, with no need for zips, which can provide an entry point for water.
Other details include Kevlar stitching on the sole for increased abrasion resistance and a back panel at the heel made from a stretch rib fabric for increase durability. These will set you back £27.99 a pair.
Like their overshoe cousins, the Deluge Gloves are, according to Endura, fully waterproof thanks to a waterproof membrane and snug double cuff. When you first pull the gloves on you might think you’ve ordered a size too small but the stretchy cuff helps keep persistent rain out, and first impressions tell us that the gloves are very comfortable once on.
Padding on the palm is there to take the sting out of riding your bike and there’s also a full finger sweat wipe. The stretchy Cordura/Supplex outer ensures the gloves remain fairly lightweight, meaning you still have full control over the bike, unlike bulkier winter gloves out there. Expect to see these in the shops with an RRP of £35.99.
Galibier Velo
We were sent the skull cap (£9) and toe warmers (£12) seen here by a company we hadn’t previously heard of – Galibier Velo. Besides the items pictured above, their winter clothing range includes overshoes, gloves, leg warmers, bib tights, a jacket and gilet. Head to www.galibiervelo.com to take a closer look.
Knog Boomer Wearable light
Knog’s Boomer Wearable light was updated ahead of autumn/winter to include a stronger magnet, while there’s also a clip so it can attach to your bag as above. The four Rare Earth magnets claim to have a pull strength of 1.8kg, although we’ll be putting it to the test to see if it stays attached to your jacket, backpack or wherever else it can feasibly go.
The high-powered red LED is rated to 20 Lumens, with a range of flashing modes as well as a constant setting. Having used it for a week’s commuting to date, this looks a great bet for a versatile second rear light. It’s very bright. Retail price is £20.49 and we’ll have a full review shortly.
www.todayscyclist.co.uk
www.knog.com.au
Revolution Tune Up Advanced Toolkit
The Revolution Tune Up Advanced Toolkit is brand new from Edinburgh Bicycle Co-Operative and is based on the original Tune Up Toolkit, but with additional items such as cable cutters.
This has got just about everything you’re likely to need, with the full range of tools detailed on Edinburgh’s website. Revolution products are always good value for money and this will hit the market at £59.99.
Aquapac Mini Stormproof Phone Case
If you plan on riding whatever the weather, you’ll need to ensure your mobile phone is kept separate from the elements.
The Aquapac Mini Stormproof Phone Case is made from a TPU-coated Ripstop Nylon material with welded seams and a three-roll seal with micro-buckle for waterproofing to a rating of IPX6 (that’s fire-hose proof, according to Aquapac). This may seem like overkill for road riders but it’s ideal if you also ride off-road, when conditions can get really mucky, especially as the phone’s touchscreen is still usable through the window.
Available for £16 from www.store.aquapac.net
