The Sugoi RS Rain Gloves are pitched as “thermal rain gloves for excellent comfort on cold, weather rides”. Given the season-long deluge which has fallen upon the UK, we shouldn’t have any problem putting that to the test.
The gloves are made from neoprene, most commonly found in wetsuits but also often used for overshoes. Neoprene normally does a decent job at keeping water out and, if it does ingress, it helps retain warmth, like a wetsuit.
On the flip side, breathability can suffer when the temperature rises, either due to the weather conditions or the pace of your ride, We’ll see if our previous experience with the fabric extends to these gloves. A velcro closure is designed to keep things snug around the wrist, but first impressions suggest there’s a little too much material in the cuff and it lacks shape as a result. That said, the cuff is likely to spend most of its time under a jersey or jacket.
Otherwise, the gloves are pre-curved for an anatomic fit and have plenty of silicone on the palm and fingers, which should help provide grip on the handlebar and controls. There’s also a thumb tip on both gloves which is said to be touch-screen compatible, so you should be able to use your mobile phone without removing the gloves.
The RS Rain Gloves come in five sizes, from small to extra-large, and cost £34.99.
Website: Sugoi
UK distributor: Cycling Sports Group
