Softshell winter suits: 12 suits for men and women put to the test

We tested these 12 winter combos:

• AguPolartec III Thermo Jacket III Six6 / Winter Bib Tights Long III Six6 (Da. and He.)
• Alé CyclingK-Tornado Jacket (Da. and He.) / Blizzard Lady trousers and Nordik Plus men's trousers
• AssosUma GT Winter Jacket Evo and Uma GT Ultraz Winter Bib Tights (Da.) / Mille GT Winter Jacket Evo and Mille GT Winter Bib Tights C2 (He.)
• CastelliFly Thermal Jacket / Sorpasso RoS Bibtight (Da. and He.)
• DynamicsTech II thermal jacket and thermal wind protection cycling shorts long (Da.) / Professional softshell jacket men and performance bib shorts long (He.)
• Gore WearTempest Signal Jacket (Da.) and Infinium Signal Thermo Jacket (He.) / Distance Winter Bib Shorts+ (Da. and He.)
• SpoonbillM Bike Jacket Alpha II WS Light / W Bike Bib Tights WS Elastic (Da. and He.)
• Pas Normal StudiosMechanism Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey / Mechanism Deep Winter Long Bibs (Da. and He.)
• SantiniAdapt Multi Jacket (Da. and He.) / Guard Nimb cycling shorts women and Adapt Long cycling shorts men
• Sportful: Super Jacket / Flandre Norain Bibtight (Da. and He.)
• Van Rysel: Road bike jacket Winter RCE and long cycling shorts with Quickzip straps (Da.) / Road bike jacket Winter Racer Extreme and long cycling shorts Winter RCR (He.)
• VaudePosta Softshell cycling jacket and Posta Softshell Tight cycling shorts (Da.) / Posta IV Softshell cycling jacket and Posta Softshell bib shorts (He.)

Click to go to the individual rating

The topics:

1. The test products at a glance
2. Short & sweet: Test summary
3. We noticed these details
4. How TOUR tests
5. The test results

The test products at a glance

Testing winter clothing is not that easy in our latitudes - at least when October takes its time with the autumn weather. A summery 27 degrees and double-digit temperatures even at night made it difficult to assess the jackets and trousers for their intended purpose. And since a test trip to a region with wintry weather was out of the question, the test team decided without further ado to create the right conditions in the form of a rented refrigerated lorry, in which fish or vegetables are normally transported on pallets: Winter weather indoors, the desired test conditions in the editorial car park.

For our test of winter clothing, we invited two sets each from twelve manufacturers, consisting of a jacket and trousers for women and men. Most manufacturers have identical models in their range, differing only in anatomically adapted cuts or details. Brands such as Dynamics (Zweirad Stadler) or Van Rysel (Decathlon), which do not do this, were able to send alternative models into the race. In the case of Assos or Santini, men's and women's trousers were not the same, which explains the different scores in the table.

The range of offers is wide, especially in terms of price. While brands such as Van Rysel or Dynamics offer combos for less than 200 euros (the regular prices at Zweirad Stadler are usually always discounted), the sets from Assos or Pas Normal Studios cost 500 to 600 euros.

Feed supply

When it comes to the material for jackets, most manufacturers rely on tried and tested softshell laminates, consisting of a lining, membrane and impregnated outer shell. In winter clothing, the membrane is usually designed to be windproof and merely water-repellent instead of waterproof, in favour of better sweat transport in the form of water vapour away from the skin to the outside. Agu and Castelli use a type of flocked and particularly light wadding as insulation material, which creates an insulating layer of air; all others use roughened Roubaix material to create a warm microclimate in the clothing.Van Rysel equips its men's winter jacket with an additional zip waistcoat that can be removed; this is practical when there are large temperature differences.

In terms of trousers, the range extends from those without a membrane (Agu, Sportful) to expedition trousers with strategically placed windstopper inserts against the wind, such as those from Gorewear or Pas Normal Studios. Both concepts have advantages and disadvantages, depending on the weather conditions and intended use. For example, if you want to train intensively even in the cold, you are better off with the membrane-free, but more vapour-permeable trousers - at least as long as it stays dry. On the outside, all test subjects are impregnated ex works so that water droplets bead off and the fabric does not become saturated; otherwise, wetness and wind on the fabric can easily cause shivering.

The subtle difference

Apart from your own perception of cold and the requirements for cut and fit, details decide which jacket or trousers have what it takes to become your new favourite item. Most road cyclists like the collar to close high and be soft and fluffy around the neck to keep out draughts. At the same time, the zip must be easy to open and close with one hand to regulate the temperature. The cuffs must cover the wrists long enough; the back should reach down far enough (without riding up again) to protect the bottom from splashing water. All the testers agreed that winter jackets also need back pockets, preferably in the same way as jerseys: at least two, preferably three pockets, and cut in such a way that you can easily reach into them. Single large pockets, possibly with sluggish zips, are impractical or almost impossible to open with gloves while riding.

The testers rated the men's jackets from Gorewear, Santini and Sportful as having the best fit. The female testers felt particularly well protected from the cold and wet in the jackets from Alé, Sportful and Van Rysel. The sets from Löffler and Vaude are very comfortable to wear, while Assos and Pas Normal Studios mark the decidedly sporty end of the fit scale. Especially for brands with a clear focus, it is highly recommended to try them on; some people may be bothered by the pleats of the generously tailored material in front of the chest and stomach on the comfort clothing, while fans of the tight, race-orientated style should at least check whether the jacket covers the back far enough.

The most comfortable to wear are the trousers from Agu and Sportful, they fit flexibly around legs of all shapes and follow the pedalling movement without pinching. Pedalling in the bib shorts from Pas Normal Studios is less relaxed, which is mainly due to the many seams that can be felt on the legs over time. The women's bib shorts from Dynamics and Vaude are relatively loose and comfortable. Many women prefer the strapless version to those with straps because they can pinch the breasts; our testers unanimously favoured the strappy version because it gives the trousers more support and the seat pad stays in place better. Overall, the trousers insulate less than the jackets, which makes sense due to the static posture of the upper body on the road bike; at the same time, the leg muscles produce more heat and sweat would accumulate under the thick fabric.

Overall, the current winter clothing in the test is of a high standard - even the inexpensive sets are convincing, and the cheapest outfit from Van Rysel even earns good marks with the best equipment of all.

Short and sweet

The twelve winter sets for men and women offer something for every budget and purpose. The cheapest set from Van Rysel costs 305 euros, which is the same price as the tested trousers from Pas Normal Studios. Zweirad Stadler also offers very favourable prices with its own brand Dynamics, especially as the regular prices are almost always discounted. Vaude is ahead in terms of weather protection and insulation, while the relatively thin and light sets from Assos or Löffler are less warm.

We noticed these details:

How TOUR tests

Colour theory

The images taken with the infrared camera make it clear: the fewer yellow and red areas can be seen on the image, the warmer the clothing is. Although all manufacturers advertise their sets for winter use, the insulation properties vary greatly from model to model. The reasons for this are different lining thicknesses and materials, as well as the different distribution of windproof membrane material. The results are transferable to the technically identical women's models from the manufacturers, whereby the cut and size have an influence on how well the jacket and trousers keep you warm. Note: The same model warms much better one size larger than with a tight race cut.

Weather protection (30 per cent)

The partial score is made up of the results of the two categories windproofness and spray test. Almost all jackets and trousers are fully or partially equipped with a windproof membrane. The fewer draughts that reach the body, the better the score. In the spray test, the stretched outer shell is wetted with raindrops and the better the drops roll off, the better the score. We carried out the spray test after one wash cycle, as experience has shown that the beading behaviour decreases with each wash.

Isolation (30 per cent)

We used a professional thermal imaging camera (Fluke Ti 480 Pro model from ElectroRent) to determine how well the jacket and trousers keep you warm in a practical test. This involved taking a thermographic image of each set in an idealised climate environment in a refrigerated truck at minus five degrees in a 20 km/h airflow and then analysing the respective heat radiation using the SmartView Classic 4.4 evaluation software. We compared the measurement data obtained in this way with our test subjects' perception of cold and translated it into school grades. The choice and fullness of material as well as the cut and fit have a major influence.

Equipment and handling (30 Per cent)

If the jacket and trousers are fully equipped and the zips, back pockets and waistbands are easy to use, they are awarded a score of one. Hooking zips, (too) tight jersey pockets, weakly adhering waistbands or missing zip garages result in points being deducted.

Reflective material (10 Per cent)

As this test is about cycling clothing that is mainly worn during the dark season, we have graded the reflective material separately. The candidates from Dynamics or Van Rysel performed best here, with reflective material that glows all round, regardless of which side it is illuminated from. We did not evaluate the colour selection of jackets and trousers, as this is always an individual decision.

The test results

Agu:

Model: Polartec III thermal jacket III Six6 (ladies)

• Price: 230 Euro
• Country of production: Portugal
• Weight / designs: 265 grams / 2 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.3
• Isolation (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.3
• Reflective material (10 %): 2 out of 8 points - 4.0

Overall grade (100 %): 1.6

Conclusion: The sleeves offer room for strong arms, the back is long enough, the back pockets and zips are easy to use.

Model: Winter bib shorts long III Six6 (ladies)

• Price: 180 Euro
• Country of production: Portugal
• Weight: 250 grammes
• Upholstery: 16 cm / firm, medium thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.5
• Isolation (30 %): 2 out of 8 points - 4.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.6
• Reflective material (10 %): 2 out of 8 points - 4.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.8

Conclusion: The pad is comparatively large and feels a little spongy when pedalling in the elasticated trousers; for mild and dry days.

Model: Polartec III thermal jacket III Six6 (men)

• Price: 230 Euro
• Country of production: Portugal
• Weight / designs: 305 grams / 2 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.3
• Isolation (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.3
• Reflective material (10 %): 2 out of 8 points - 4.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.6

Conclusion: Technically identical to the women's model, the Polartec lining feels very fluffy, Agu is very economical with reflective material.

Model: Winter III bib shorts long Six6 (men)

• Price: 180 Euro
• Country of production: Portugal
• Weight: 274 grammes
• Upholstery: 16 cm / firm, medium thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.5
• Isolation (30 %): 2 out of 8 points - 4.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Reflective material (10 %): 2 out of 8 points - 4.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 3.0

Conclusion: From size M upwards, the padding fits proportionally to the trousers, it could be a little softer; weather protection and insulation are poor.

Alé Cycling:

Model: K-Tornado Jacket (Ladies)

• Price: 205 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Italy
• Weight / designs: 305 grams / 7 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Isolation (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.5
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.7
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.8

Conclusion: Good racing bike cut, zips and pockets are easy to use; no zip pocket, medium insulation.

Model: Blizzard Lady trousers (Ladies)

• Price: 154 Euro >> available at Tradeinn
• Country of production: Italy
• Weight: 276 grammes
• Cushion: 14.5 cm / soft, medium-thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Isolation (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.2
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.2

Conclusion: The pad fits well, high wearing comfort, great straps, zips at the bottom make it easier to put on; not warm.

Model: K-Tornado Jacket (men)

• Price: 205 Euro >> e.g. available at Bobshop
• Country of production: Italy
• Weight / designs: 365 grams / 7 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Isolation (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.5
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.7
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.8

Conclusion: Technically identical to the women's model; elasticated and comfortable, high-cut collar.

Model: Nordik Plus trousers (men)

• Price: 205 Euro
• Country of production: Italy
• Weight: 315 grammes
• Cushion: 15.5 cm / soft, thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Isolation (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.4
• Reflective material (10 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.3

Conclusion: Windbreaker at the front provides effective protection from the wind; not as easy to put on as the women's trousers.

Assos:

Model: Uma GT Winter Jacket Evo (Ladies)

• Price: 260 Euro
• Country of production: Tunisia
• Weight / designs: 355 grams / 5 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Isolation (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.4
• Reflective material (10 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.0

Conclusion: racing cut, runs relatively small, great features and great handling, the collar is relatively stiff and cut short.

Model: Uma GT Ultraz Winter Bib Tights (Ladies)

• Price: 300 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Bulgaria
• Weight: 320 grammes
• Cushion: 15 cm / soft, medium thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.3
• Isolation (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.3
• Reflective material (10 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.9

Conclusion: Normal width, rather short trouser legs; the padding is inconspicuous, the mono strap at the front can be separated with a clip.

Model: Mille GT Winter Jacket Evo (men)

• Price: 260 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Tunisia
• Weight / designs: 405 grams / 5 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Isolation (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.4
• Reflective material (10 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.0

Conclusion: racing cut, slightly smaller, rather tight sleeves, completely windproof at the front, vapour-permeable material at the back, roomy pockets.

Model: Mille GT Winter Bib Tights C2 (men)

• Price: 205 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Bulgaria
• Weight: 300 grammes
• Cushion: 17 cm / soft, medium thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.5
• Isolation (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.6
• Reflective material (10 %): 0 out of 8 points - 5.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.6

Conclusion: normal fit; different to the women's model without windstopper; very comfortable to wear thanks to fewer seams.

Castelli:

Model: Fly Thermal W Jacket (ladies)

• Price 300 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Croatia
• Weight / designs: 270 grams / 2 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Isolation (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 1.9
• Reflective material (10 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0

Overall grade (100 %): 1.7

Summary: Normal length, slightly wider cut, fluffy padding, with hood; two-way zip, side back pockets for small hands, two zip pockets.

Model: Sorpasso RoS W Bibtight (Women)

• Price: 190 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Italy
• Weight: 275 Grammm
• Upholstery: 15 cm / firm, medium thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.o
• Isolation (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.2

Conclusion: No windbreaker, very elastic, easy to put on and take off, zips at the bottom of the leg, comfortable straps, lots of reflective material.

Model: Fly Thermal Jacket (Men)

• Price: 300 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Croatia
• Weight / designs: 255 grams / 3 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Isolation (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 1.8
• Reflective material (10 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.6

Conclusion: Normal length, slightly wider, fluffy padding, without hood; collar cut slightly wide, two-way zip and back pockets with good handling, one zip pocket.

Model: Sorpasso RoS Bibtight (Men)

• Price: 200 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Bosnia-Herzegovina
• Weight: 275 grammes
• Upholstery: 15 cm / firm, medium thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.o
• Isolation (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.2

Conclusion: No windbreaker, very elastic, very comfortable to wear and luxurious features; for mild autumn and winter days.

Dynamics:

Model: Tech II thermal jacket (Ladies)

• Price: 169 Euro
• Country of production: China
• Weight / designs: 535 grams / 1 colour

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.5
• Isolation (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.5

Conclusion: Very comfortable and wide cut, very warm, well equipped, outer material absorbs water quickly, hood very puffy.

Model: Thermo wind protection cycling shorts long (Ladies)

• Price: 110 Euro
• Country of production: China
• Weight: 300 grammes
• Upholstery: without upholstery

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Isolation (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.6
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.9

Conclusion: Waistband trousers, normal fit, warm, outer skin soaks up water quickly, lots of windstopper at the front reduces wearing comfort.

Model: Professional softshell jacket (Gents)

• Price: 190 Euro
• Country of production: China
• Weight / designs: 465 grams / 4 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Isolation (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.6

Conclusion: Comfortable cut, five pockets with zip, plenty of reflective material, comfortable sleeve gaiters, high collar.

Model: Performance bib shorts long (Gents)

• Price: 140 Euro
• Country of production: China
• Weight: 295 grammes
• Cushion: 12.5 cm / firm, thin

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Isolation (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.3

Conclusion: Fits normal to wide, very little padding, windbreaker only in the knee area, water does not roll off well; braces roll up.

Gore Wear:

Model: Tempest Signal Jacket (Ladies)

• Price: 160 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: China
• Weight / designs: 365 grams / 2 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Isolation (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.7
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.7

Conclusion: Good racing bike cut, warms better than other softshell jackets, lots of reflective material, zip is a bit heavy, tight outer pockets.

Model: Distance Winter Bib Shorts+ (Ladies)

• Price 200 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: China
• Weight: 290 grammes
• Cushion: 13 cm / firm, thin

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Isolation (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.6

Conclusion: Lots of windstopper material, therefore somewhat tight; warms better than average, small and pleasantly thin padding.

Model: Infinium Signal Thermo Jacket (men)

• Price: 200 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: China
• Weight / designs: 425 grams / 2 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Isolation (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.6
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.6

Conclusion: Very good racing bike cut, otherwise the same as the women's jacket, the high and flexible collar is the best in the test.

Model: Distance Winter Bib Shorts+ (men)

• Price: 200 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: China
• Weight: 320 grammes
• Cushion: 13 cm / firm, thin

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Isolation (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.6

Conclusion: Also somewhat tight and less flexible; good weather protection, good insulation, little padding.

Löffler:

Model: M Bike Jacket Alpha II WS Light (Ladies)

• Price: 180 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Austria
• Weight/designs: 280 grams / 2 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Isolation (30 %): 3 out of 8 points - 3.5
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.3
• Reflective material (10 %): 2 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.3

Conclusion: Fits large and comfortable, good in wind and wet conditions, but weak insulation; with a narrow elasticated waistband, the jacket slides up.

Model: W Bike Bib Tights WS Elastic (Ladies)

• Price: 160 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Austria
• Weight: 285 grammes
• Cushion: 15 cm / soft, thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Isolation (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.6
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.9

Conclusion: Fits well, offers a lot of weather protection and is one of the warmest trousers of the competition; annoying are the straps that roll up.

Model: M Bike Jacket Alpha II WS Light (men)

• Price: 180 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Austria
• Weight / designs: 310 grams / 2 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Isolation (30 %): 3 out of 8 points - 3.5
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.3
• Reflective material (10 %): 2 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.3

Conclusion: More comfortable than average, good weather protection, but hardly any warmth, slides up at the back when the back pocket is empty.

Model: W Bike Bib Tights WS Elastic (men)

• Price: 170 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Austria
• Weight: 310 grammes
• Cushion: 13 cm / firm, thin

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Isolation (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.2
• Reflective material (10 %): 4 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.8

Conclusion: Good bad weather trousers with flexible padding; the braces that roll up are annoying here too.

Pas Normal Studios:

Model: W Mechanism Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey (Ladies)

• Price: 270 Euro
• Country of production: Lithuania
• Weight / designs: 275 grams / 6 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.5
• Isolation (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 1.9
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.3

Conclusion: racing cut, very short, little insulation, material absorbs water; not completely windproof at the front, good features, lots of reflective material.

Model: Mechanism Deep Winter Long Bibs (Ladies)

• Price: 300 Euro
• Country of production: Italy
• Weight: 335 grammes
• Cushion: 14 cm / firm, thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 1.8
• Isolation (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 1.8
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.1

Conclusion: slightly shorter trouser legs, good protection against wind and drizzle; well-placed braces, but the many seams are slightly noticeable.

Model: Mechanism Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey (men)

• Price: 270 Euro
• Country of production: Lithuania
• Weight / designs: 330 grams / 9 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.5
• Isolation (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 1.9
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.3

Conclusion: Extreme racing cut, well equipped and good handling, reflective material is top; more suitable for mild autumn and winter days.

Model: Mechanism Deep Winter Long Bibs (men)

• Price: 300 Euro
• Country of production: Italy
• Weight: 360 grammes
• Cushion: 14 cm / firm, thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 1.8
• Isolation (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 1.8
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.1

Conclusion: somewhat annoying seams; windbreaker works better than on the jacket, comfortable braces, lots of reflective material.

Santini:

Model: Adapt Multi Jacket (Ladies)

• Price: 240 Euro
• Country of production: Italy
• Weight / designs: 305 grams / 2 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Isolation (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.5
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.7
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.7

Conclusion: Very good protection against wind and moisture; not very warm; the two-way zip is a little difficult to operate, but can be easily operated with gloves, lots of reflective material.

Model: Guard Nimb cycling shorts (Ladies)

• Price: 170 Euro
• Country of production: Italy
• Weight: 285 grammes
• Cushion: 13 cm / firm, medium thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.3
• Isolation (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.2
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.4

Conclusion: straps lie flat; the trousers fit well despite the windbreaker at the front, padding is nice and flexible, lots of reflective material.

Model: Adapt Multi Jacket (men)

• Price: 250 Euro
• Country of production: Italy
• Weight/designs: 335 grams / 4 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Isolation (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.5
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.7
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.7

Conclusion: As with the women's model, good road bike cut, very usable pockets, two-way zip a little difficult to operate.

Model: Adapt long cycling shorts (men)

• Price: 230 Euro
• Country of production: Italy
• Weight: 325 grammes
• Cushion: 12 cm / firm, thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 2.8
• Isolation (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.6
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.0

Conclusion: very stretchy and comfortable fit, water droplets roll off well, the trousers are not windproof, more for mild winter days.

Sportful:

Model: Super W Jacket (Ladies)

• Price: 210 Euro
• Country of production: Croatia
• Weight / designs: 370 grams / 2 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.3
• Isolation (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.3
• Reflective material (10 %): 2 out of 8 points - 4.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.5

Conclusion: Good racing bike cut, nice long sleeves, soft and high collar, suitable for bad weather, insulates very well, hardly any reflective material.

Model: Flandre Norain W Bibtight (Ladies)

• Price: 130 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Romania
• Weight: 245 grammes
• Cushion: 15.5 cm / firm, thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Isolation (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.4
• Reflective material (10 %): 0 out of 8 points - 5.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.7

Conclusion: Very flexible, fairly large padding; warms well, no wind protection, for mild to cool temperatures, no reflective material.

Model: Super Jacket (men)

• Price: 210 Euro
• Country of production: Hungary
• Weight / designs: 420 grams / 2 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.3
• Isolation (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.3
• Reflective material (10 %): 2 out of 8 points - 4.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.5

Conclusion: Good racing bike cut, technically identical to the women's model, very good cuffs, high collar, zip pocket.

Model: Flandre Norain Bibtight (men)

• Price: 130 Euro
• Country of production: Romania
• Weight: 275 grammes
• Cushion: 15.5 cm / firm, thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 4 out of 8 points - 3.0
• Isolation (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 5 out of 8 points - 2.4
• Reflective material (10 %): 0 out of 8 points - 5.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.7

Conclusion: Like the women's trousers, very flexible with large padding; no wind protection, but good insulation for mild to cool temperatures.

Van Rysel:

Model: Cycling jacket road bike winter RCE (Ladies)

• Price: 65 Euro
• Country of production: China
• Weight / designs: 385 grams / 4 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Isolation (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.4
• Reflective material (10 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.7

Conclusion: Very good racing bike cut; the long back provides good protection against splash water, 5 jersey pockets, 2 zip pockets, great cuffs.

Model: Long cycling shorts with Quickzip straps (Ladies)

• Price: 70 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: China
• Weight: 310 grammes
• Cushion: 14.5 cm / firm, thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 0 out of 8 points - 5.0
• Isolation (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.2
• Reflective material (10 %): 0 out of 8 points - 5.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 2.6

Conclusion: Very elastic, does not hold the padding in place well and feels spongy, only suitable for dry and mild days.

Model: Winter Racer Extreme road bike jacket (best men's set)

• Price: 89 Euro
• Country of production: China
• Weight / designs: 725 grams / 3 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Isolation (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.3

Conclusion: Very good racing bike cut; the long back provides good protection against splash water; extras such as inner waistcoat and Buff, very heavy, very warm.

Model: Cycling shorts long winter RCR (best men's set)

• Price: 80 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: China
• Weight: 320 grammes
• Upholstery: 13 cm / firm, medium thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Isolation (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.6
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.3

Conclusion: comfortable fit, very good straps; the narrow padding feels a little spongy.

Vaude:

Model: Posta softshell cycling jacket (best women's set)

• Price: 170 Euro
• Country of production: Vietnam
• Weight / designs: 420 grams / 3 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Isolation (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.6
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.2

Conclusion: Comfortable cut, runs large, warms well, very good weather protection, good cuffs; wide collar, no back pockets, 3 zip pockets.

Model: Posta Softshell Tight cycling trousers (best women's set)

• Price: 140 Euro
• Country of production: Vietnam
• Weight: 310 grammes
• Upholstery: 16 cm / firm, medium thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.5
• Isolation (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.3
• Reflective material (10 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.6

Conclusion: Waistband trousers, normal to wide fit, lots of windstopper material at the front, warm, wide and comfortable waistband, padding a little spongy.

Model: Posta IV softshell cycling jacket (men)

• Price: 180 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Vietnam
• Weight / designs: 485 grams / 6 colours

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Isolation (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 7 out of 8 points - 1.6
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.2

Conclusion: Comfortable cut, runs large, the back is longer than the women's model; warm, very good weather protection, very good collar and cuffs, 3 zip pockets.

Model: Posta softshell bib shorts (men)

• Price: 180 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Vietnam
• Weight: 385 grammes
• Upholstery: 12 cm / firm, medium thick

TOUR rating

• Weather protection (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 1.8
• Isolation (30 %): 6 out of 8 points - 2.0
• Equipment/handling (30 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Reflective material (10 %): 8 out of 8 points - 1.0
• Overall grade (100 %): 1.5

Conclusion: heaviest trousers in the test, good all-weather protection, warm; a body with zip replaces the braces, padding a little spongy.

More articles on this topic:

>> Winter cycling clothing: What winter jackets and trousers for road and gravel bikes need to be able to do

>> Road bike equipment for cold days: 11 items that road cyclists need in winter