The clue to Santini’s H20 range is in the name – the kit has been designed to be either waterproof (for example, the Epic jacket) or at least water resistant (the bib tights) and the Winter Gloves fall into the latter category.
Santini’s Aquazero fabric is, according to the Italian manufacturer, highly water resistant material that under prolonged tests maintains its comfort, elasticity, softness, breathability and warmth.
However, a morning commute in heavy rain with the Santini H20 Winter Gloves left my hands decidedly damp and the gloves, while not soaked through, in need of some time on the office radiator.
That aside, the H20 gloves are windproof and do an excellent job of keeping that early winter chill out – when dry – but, as they are quite thin, a thicker pair may be in order once the mercury truly plummets.
As with all Santini gear, the fit is snug – think ‘Italian’ – but comfortable – if these are for you, consider ordering a size up. A reflective logo and piping on the front of each glove is subtle but is ideal for low light conditions, while a fleeced area on the inner wrist provides a soft area to mop a sweaty brow.
An abundance of tiny square silicon grippers are on hand on the fingers and palm to ensure you are in complete control of the bike. But after a month’s testing – not heavy use, mind – nearly half have fallen away, predominantly on the fingertips and middle of the palm. Gripping the brakes becomes more trick and complete control of the bike is therefore sacrificed.
It’s a shame as the H20 tights and jacket tested thus far are both superb, and the long sleeve jersey about to be put through its paces seems an excellent piece.
But for a pair of gloves retailing at £44.99, these fall short of what has come to be expected from Santini.
Santini Winter Gloves; Black or Red, sizes XS-XL, £44.99
