You just can’t get through the winter without a pair of decent tights, and Gore Bike Wear’s Contest Thermo tights having been keeping our legs very warm. They’re made from Windstopper fabric into a six panel design, and available with or without a built in Chamois pad. We’ve tested the sans-Chamois pad option because we prefer the flexibility.

Obviously fit is all important, and Gore has paid particular attention to the fit around the knees. The legs are pre-shaped with a slight bend in them, and there’s extra stretchy material behind the knee area and a section that sits just below the knee on the front. It’s all held together with flat non-rubbing seems, and all adds up to great fit that really hugs your legs like a second skin.

Inside, the tights are lined with a soft fleecy material which on longer rides or even in the coldest spells manage to keep your legs warm. The back of the shoulder straps are mesh lined, a six inch zip on the front makes pulling them on and off slightly easier, and the stirrups mean they stay nicely in place. There’s a tiny strip of reflective material on the lower legs, and the logo is reflective: it would have been nice to see some larger sections of reflective material though.

Verdict

A top performing pair of tights that benefit from Windstopper fabric. We had a slight issue with the fit around the knee, but this is more down to sizing than the design, so ensure you check sizing thoroughly before buying. That aside, you can’t ask more from a pair of tights: they keep you comfortable, warm and dry.

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Comfortable, warm

More reflectivity would have been nice

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Additional Information

Price: With chamois £110 / without £100

Colours: Black

Sizes: Five sizes

Contact: Gore Bike Wear

Website: gorebikewear.com

Photo Gallery
You can see all the different panels and sections	Stirrups, great for keeping tights in place	Mesh backing and front zip