Cycling clothing in winter: 12 warm jackets and trousers for men and women

12 winter suits for women and men put to the test

1. Craft ADV Bike SubZ Insulate Jacket / ADV Bike Offroad SubZ Pants
2. Dynamics professional softshell jacket / Gravel Pant
3. Endura MT500 Freezing Point Jacket / MT500 Freezing Point Trousers
4. Fox W Ranger Fire Jacket / W Defend Fire Pant
5. Gonso Canosio / Basodino / Ferra (women's trousers)
6. Jack Wolfskin Morobbia Alpha Ins Jacket M / Morobbia Alpha Ins Pants M
7. Löffler Bike Jacket Cosmo WS Warm CF / MTB Pants AS
8. Pearl Izumi W Attack Amfib Lite JKT / W Summit Amfib Lite Pant
9. Jack Wolfskin Morobbia Jacket W / Morobbia Pants W
10. Pearl Izumi Canyon Ecoloft Jkt / Summit Amfib Alpha Pant
11. Scott Trail Storm Insuloft AL Jacket / Trail Storm Hybrid Pants
12. Vaude Me All Year Moab Jacket II / Me All Year Moab Pants

(Click to go to the individual rating)

How do you test winter clothing when it's still 25 degrees outside in mid-October? This question has kept us busy for some time, but then the answer is finally out in the editorial yard. It weighs 15 tonnes and takes up five parking spaces. What is "petite" about the Petit Forestier refrigerated lorry remains a moot point. But its refrigeration unit freezes the cargo hold to a wintry minus five degrees Celsius - perfect temperatures for our test of insulated clothing.

A total of ten manufacturers submitted twelve different jacket and trouser sets. These include both men's and women's items. Some of the models are also available for both genders.

Primaloft and Polartec Alpha on the rise in cycling clothing

When it comes to the choice of materials, it is particularly striking that only a few manufacturers still rely purely on classic softshell. Around half of the test products contain modern insulation fibres such as Polartec Alpha or Primaloft. These have a high insulating effect with a very low weight. Compared to softshells, however, they are generally less breathable because they are usually enclosed in very tightly woven fabric. The moisture protection of modern insulated clothing is also often worse than that of the somewhat heavier softshells. Those who also run intensive units in winter are better advised to wear classic clothing. Depending on how cold you feel, you will find a wide range of fabrics of different thicknesses, some of which are also roughened on the inside for a little more heat retention. In addition, manufacturers often place air-permeable material on the areas facing away from the wind to support moisture transport.

Complex test with thermography

Outside on the editorial site, the cooling unit on the Petit Forestier starts up again with a loud humming noise to add some cold air. In addition, a fan blows the icy wind around the testers' bodies. The conditions should be as realistic as possible. Only a crystal-clear winter landscape can hardly be recreated in the dark boot. So that we don't have to rely purely on our subjective feeling of cold during the insulation test, a high-resolution thermal imaging camera from Fluke shows where body heat escapes from the jackets and trousers.

With its signal red colour, the professional tool mercilessly exposes heat leaks and cold bridges. The camera also impressively demonstrates how important it is to have an air cushion under your clothes in winter. Areas that are close to the skin cool down particularly quickly and you wish for a few warming rays of sunshine. This is not a problem for us on this test day. As soon as we open the loading hatch, we are back in our winter clothes in what feels like midsummer Munich at 25 degrees.

Material science: Softshell vs. insulating fibres

Softshell

Softshells usually consist of a two-layer construction and differ from hardshells in that they do not have a waterproof barrier. A water-repellent surface treatment (DWR) protects against light rain. In terms of air permeability, there is a complete spectrum from completely windproof to very air-permeable. Materials with different densities are often used in order to partially ventilate the body. In some cases, the inside of the softshell is equipped with a high pile or honeycomb construction, which improves insulation by trapping air. The good moisture transport properties of softshell make it suitable for use even under intensive conditions. Depending on the material construction, softshell offers a certain degree of weather protection combined with softness, stretch, heat retention and very high breathability. Softshell is hard to beat in terms of versatility for winter sports use.

Primaloft, Polartec Alpha & Co

There are two main products in the insulation jacket test. Primaloft consists of ultra-fine polyester microfibres that form a networked tangle of fibres and imitate the structure and function of down. The fibres are usually sandwiched between two layers of fabric that are highly or completely windproof. Polartec Alpha is a coarsely knitted fabric that offers space for air pockets thanks to its wide weave and light pile. As Polartec Alpha Direct, it lies directly on the skin or the base layer without an additional inner lining. Both materials are particularly light, packable and have a high insulating effect. As moisture transport is limited due to the usually dense outer fabric or the additional inner layer, these materials are more suitable for low-intensity activities and are also recommended for dry conditions due to their low moisture protection.

The winter cycling clothing in our test

Craft

1) ADV Bike SubZ Insulate Jacket
2) ADV Bike Offroad SubZ Pants

Price: 179.95 / 149.95 Euro
Weight¹: 320 g / 564 g (M / M)

Equipment
Jacket: stretch cuffs; 4 back pockets
Trousers: adjustable waistband and leg cuffs; 2 zip pockets; adjustable seat area seat area

The Craft ADV Bike SubZ is a very light and stretchy jacket with a sporty fit and high wearing comfort. Its polyester lining is light yet warm. However, the outer layer lets a lot of wind through and hardly keeps any moisture out. It is therefore more suitable for dry, cold days. Large breathable zones draw a lot of perspiration away from the body. The collar and rear could be cut longer. The Craft ADV trousers, on the other hand, are a safe bet even in bad weather: doubled knees provide warmth and mobility. The rear is pulled far upwards and the seat area is additionally reinforced. Overall, the trousers withstand cold and wet conditions very well.

Valuation

Insulation
1) 9 out of 10 points
2) 9 out of 10 points
Weather protection
1) 5 out of 10 points
2) 8 out of 10 points
Fit
1) 8 out of 10 points
2) 9 out of ten points
Equipment
1) 5 out of 10 points
2) 8 out of 10 points

Dynamics

1) Professional softshell jacket
2) Gravel Pant

Price: 99.99 / 89.99 Euro
Weight¹: 408 g / 590 g (L / L)

Equipment
Jacket: thumb loops; 5 zip pockets; watch window; ventilation
Trousers: adjustable waist and legs; slash pockets; ventilation; adjustable seat area seat area

The Dynamics cycling jacket scores points with its sporty cut, comfortable high collar and soft cuffs. The front can be extended with a double zip. Many seams and the short, high-sliding rear reduce the wearing comfort. The ventilation slits are of no use. In contrast to the jacket, the bike trousers are very large and have a baggy, undefined fit. The waterproof seat area and the side ventilation openings are good. The waffle structure on the jacket and trousers provides comfort, but only moderate warmth. The outer material greedily absorbs moisture. Only recommended for dry days.

Valuation

Insulation
1) 7 out of 10 points
2) 8 out of 10 points
Weather protection
1) 6 out of 10 points
2) 8 out of 10 points
Fit
1) 8 out of 10 points
2) 7 out of ten points
Equipment
1) 9 out of 10 points
2) 9 out of 10 points

Endura

1) MT500 Freezing Point Jacket
2) MT500 Freezing Point Trousers

Price 184.99 / 179.99 Euro
Weight¹ 450 g / 457 g (S / S)
Equipment
Jacket: front/inside pocket; stretch cuffs; ventilation
Trousers: adjustable waistband and legs; 2 zip pockets; adjustable seat area; ventilation. seat area; ventilation

The Endura MT500 Freezing Point suit is windproof and Primaloft-lined in the critical areas and a blessing on cold winter days. The back and seat area are highly water-repellent, making the suit one of the few insulated ones that also works in wet conditions. Thanks to the perfect cut, the trousers and jacket overlap widely, leaving no gap for draughts or splashing water. Ventilation openings provide some cooling on the climbs, but it gets very warm during sporty use. The fit is designed for trail and enduro use and offers a high degree of freedom of movement. The Primaloft lining keeps you warm even when wet.

Valuation

Insulation
1) 10 out of 10 points
2) 9 out of 10 points
Weather protection
1) 9 out of 10 points
2) 9 out of 10 points
Fit
1) 8 out of 10 points
2) 9 out of ten points
Equipment
1) 10 out of 10 points
2) 10 out of 10 points

Fox

1) W Ranger Fire Jacket
2) W Defend Fire Pant

Price: 149.99 / 169.99 Euro
Weight¹: 495 g / 473 g (S / S)

Equipment
Jacket: slash/chest pocket; brushed lining
Trousers: reinforced knees knee; zip pockets; ratchet fastening; Polartec Alpha

The Fox Defend Fire Pants are robust winter trousers in enduro style. The thighs and buttocks are well warmed by Polartec Alpha, but the knees and lower legs quickly get cold - unless you wear protectors. The protruding waistband at the back, the tight fly and the extremely short legs (watch out for the cold bridge!) with very tight cuffs are annoying - difficult to put on and take off. The simple Fox Ranger Fire jacket impresses with its long sleeves and good weather protection. The brushed inside is comfortable to wear, but the stubborn material restricts mobility. The rear should extend further down. There is no ventilation option.

Valuation

Insulation
1) 6 out of 10 points
2) 5 out of 10 points
Weather protection
1) 9 out of 10 points
2) 5 out of 10 points
Fit
1) 9 out of 10 points
2) 7 out of ten points
Equipment
1) 6 out of 10 points
2) 7 out of 10 points

Gonso

1) Canosio jacket
2) Basodino trousers / Ferra ladies' trousers

Price: 169.95 / 149.95 Euro
Weight¹: 465 g / 455 g (L / L)

Equipment
Jacket: stretch cuffs; zip-off sleeves; 3 back pockets
Trousers: adjustable waistband; slit pockets; ventilation; adjustable seat area seat area

Solid all-round suit from Gonso impresses with its successful bike-specific cut. The Canosio jacket scores points with its long sleeves, low-cut rear and high, tight-fitting collar. The classic back pockets are a perfect match, although they are difficult to use due to the Velcro flap above them. Clever: the sleeves can be zipped off. This turns the Canosio into a 3-season gilet. The Basodino trousers (men's model) are also very comfortable to wear, with plenty of stretch and a great fit - the rear also extends high up. The seat area is reinforced and the outer material generally provides good protection against moisture. The soft waffle structure is particularly pleasant. The legs could be a little tighter.

Valuation

Insulation
1) 7 out of 10 points
2) 7 out of 10 points
Weather protection
1) 9 out of 10 points
2) 9 out of 10 points
Fit
1) 9 out of 10 points
2) 8 out of ten points
Equipment
1) 8 out of 10 points
2) 8 out of 10 points

Jack Wolfskin

1) Morobbia Alpha Ins Jacket M
2) Morobbia Alpha Ins Pants M

Price: 199.95 / 179.95 Euro
Weight¹: 243 g / 228 g (M / M)

Equipment
Jacket: 3 back pockets; chest pocket; Polartec Alpha lining
Trousers: stretch waistband; slash pockets; Polartec Alpha lining

Jack Wolfskin Morobbia Alpha Ins Jacket and Pants: A breath of nothing compared to the rest of the test field and therefore suitable either as an optional protective layer for the descent or for intensive training on cool to cold days. Even though Jack Wolfskin advertises the outer material as waterproof, it is only moderately water-repellent and not very suitable for wet winter days. Lightweight Polartec Alpha on the torso and thighs generates some warmth, but the knees, buttocks and forearms in particular remain unprotected and cool down quickly. Good wind protection and highly vapour-permeable areas - a highly technical combination for sporty use.

Valuation

Insulation
1) 5 out of 10 points
2) 4 out of 10 points
Weather protection
1) 7 out of 10 points
2) 7 out of 10 points
Fit
1) 8 out of 10 points
2) 7 out of ten points
Equipment
1) 5 out of 10 points
2) 8 out of 10 points

Spoonbill

1) Bike Jacket Cosmo WS Warm CF
2) MTB Pants AS

Price: 249.99 / 179.99 Euro
Weight¹: 537 g / 393 g (M / M)

Equipment
Jacket: slash pockets; back pocket; stretch cuffs
Trousers: waistband/leg adjustment; slash pockets and back pockets with zip

While the Löffler Bike Jacket Cosmo is a classic, thick softshell jacket with high heat retention and a softly brushed inside, the MTB Pants offer little protection against the cold. Although the stretchy fabric provides plenty of freedom of movement and an excellent fit, it is not very resistant to cold and wet conditions. The material also lets a lot of wind through and is more suitable for mild days. In contrast, the jacket completely blocks the wind and keeps moisture away from the body. The sleeve cuffs and collar fit snugly and comfortably, but the material does billow at the waist. Permeable zones on the sides and under the arms improve the climate. Still more for cold days.

Valuation

Insulation
1) 7 out of 10 points
2) 4 out of 10 points
Weather protection
1) 8 out of 10 points
2) 5 out of 10 points
Fit
1) 9 out of 10 points
2) 9 out of ten points
Equipment
1) 8 out of 10 points
2) 6 out of 10 points

Pearl Izumi

1) W Attack Amfib Lite JKT
2) W Summit Amfib Lite Pant

Price: 165 / 160 Euro
Weight¹: 364 g / 335 g (S / S)

Equipment
Jacket: 3 back pockets; chest pocket; two-way zip
Trousers: waistband adjustment; thigh pockets

If you're looking for two skin cosies, you'll find them here: The insides of the Pearl Izumi combination are fluffy and soft, even though the Attack Amfib Lite jacket is significantly warmer. Both pieces offer an almost perfect sporty fit, the rear is slightly longer so that there is no gap at the back. The side pockets on the Summit Amfib Lite trousers are cleverly positioned and the integrated belt is easy to adjust. The trousers are draughty in cold winds. The jacket is windproof, but just like the trousers, it is poorly protected against the wet and is therefore only recommended for dry days. The collar and armpits are a little tight.

Valuation

Insulation
1) 7 out of 10 points
2) 5 out of 10 points
Weather protection
1) 6 out of 10 points
2) 6 out of 10 points
Fit
1) 9 out of 10 points
2) 9 out of ten points
Equipment
1) 8 out of 10 points
2) 6 out of 10 points

Jack Wolfskin

1) Morobbia Jacket W
2) Morobbia Pants W

Price 149.95 / 119.95 Euro
Weight¹ 343 g / 295 g (S / S)
Equipment
Jacket: 3 back pockets; chest pocket
Trousers: slash pockets; adjustable waistband

The medium-warm, lightweight Jack Wolfskin Morobbia softshell suit for women has a relaxed, sporty cut. The windproof sections are thick on the outside and have a fluffy brushed inside. Otherwise, Jack Wolfskin relies on wind-permeable, breathable fabric, which means that the Morobbia suit also works well at higher intensities. However, the material offers little protection from the wet, and it quickly gets fresh on the back. The cuffs of the jacket and trousers overlap well and the sleeves with small flaps extend over the gloves. Even without a zip on the close-fitting legs, the stretchy trousers are easy to put on and take off. A little too much material on the chest and stomach. Recommended for cool, dry days.

Valuation

Insulation
1) 6 out of 10 points
2) 6 out of 10 points
Weather protection
1) 7 out of 10 points
2) 7 out of 10 points
Fit
1) 8 out of 10 points
2) 9 out of ten points
Equipment
1) 8 out of 10 points
2) 6 out of 10 points

Pearl Izumi

1) Canyon Ecoloft Jkt
2) Summit Amfib Alpha Pant

Price: 210 / 190 Euro
Weight¹: 411 g / 367 g (M / M)

Equipment
Jacket: slash pockets, hood, two-way zip
Trousers: side pockets; waist/leg adjustment; Polartec Alpha lining

The Pearl Izumi trousers are only lined on the thighs, the knees and lower legs cool down slightly. Thanks to the close-fitting cut and plenty of stretch, they work well for both sporty and technical trail use. The high waistband is easy to adjust and the leg cuffs fit perfectly. The torso of the Ecoloft jacket is fully lined, which means it provides plenty of warmth but gets a little sweaty at high intensity. Air-permeable material is only used on the underside of the sleeves. The rear is a little short. Both the jacket and trousers offer little protection from the wet and are more suitable for dry days.

Valuation

Insulation
1) 8 out of 10 points
2) 6 out of 10 points
Weather protection
1) 6 out of 10 points
2) 7 out of 10 points
Fit
1) 8 out of 10 points
2) 8 out of ten points
Equipment
1) 6 out of 10 points
2) 5 out of 10 points

Scott

1) Trail Storm Insuloft AL Jacket
2) Trail Storm Hybrid Pants

Price: 159.95 / 139.95 Euro
Weight¹: 319 g / 446 g (M / M)

Equipment
Jacket: slash/back pocket; Polartec Alpha; waterproof back
Trousers: adjustable waistband; ventilation; waterproof seat/upper leg

Scott is sending two completely different products into the race. The trousers are a classic softshell with top weather protection - waterproof on the seat and thighs - but little insulation. The ventilation zip lacks a mesh backing. The fit is sporty, and they quickly feel a little sweaty. The jacket with Polartec lining provides good protection from the wind and cold at the front, but vapour can escape easily from the underside of the sleeves and back. Top: moisture protection on the lower back. The material offers good stretch, but doesn't keep you too warm overall.

Valuation

Insulation
1) 6 out of 10 points
2) 6 out of 10 points
Weather protection
1) 8 out of 10 points
2) 10 out of 10 points
Fit
1) 9 out of 10 points
2) 9 out of ten points
Equipment
1) 8 out of 10 points
2) 7 out of 10 points

Vaude

1) Me All Year Moab Jacket II
2) Me All Year Moab Pants

Price: 200 / 180 Euro
Weight¹: 486 g / 387 g (M / M)

Equipment
Jacket: hood; slash/chest pocket; ventilation zip
Trousers: adjustable waistband; thigh pockets; high waistband; waterproof seat area

The Vaude trousers fit perfectly on technical tours, offering plenty of comfort and freedom of movement. The waistband is slightly raised at the back, the legs fit snugly and the seat is well protected from splashing water. Clever: the side pockets and the well-designed waistband adjustment. Not too warm overall, but also suitable for bad weather. The jacket with its all-round cut fits comfortably, but can't quite keep up with the trousers. Although the Moab is well protected against the wet, the stretch cuffs absorb water quickly. A little sweatier at higher intensity, but there is a good ventilation option.

Valuation

Insulation
1) 7 out of 10 points
2) 6 out of 10 points
Weather protection
1) 9 out of 10 points
2) 9 out of 10 points
Fit
1) 8 out of 10 points
2) 9 out of ten points
Equipment
1) 9 out of 10 points
2) 8 out of 10 points

The evaluation at a glance