HotpantsBike trousers for cold tours

Florentin Vesenbeckh

 · 21.01.2021

Hotpants: bike trousers for cold toursPhoto: Oliver Soulas
Hotpants: bike trousers for cold tours

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Wide or narrow? In winter, the motto for biking is: The main thing is long. With these hot knickers, you are guaranteed to defy frosty temperatures.

Castelli Sorpasso 2 Wind Bibtight

199,95 Euro I 345 gram (L)

Typically Italian: the Castelli has a tight cut, is quite small and fits perfectly. Comfortable padding, wide straps with good elasticity and close-fitting leg cuffs with an optimally positioned zip round off the overall impression. Slightly thicker and lined softshell protects the thighs well from wind and weather. The other areas are highly breathable, making these not-too-warm trousers more suitable for short and brisk e-bike laps in moderate temperatures.

PLUS Super fit; zip for entry; very breathable

MINUS Runs small; moderate protection against the cold

Castelli Sorpasso 2 Wind BibtightPhoto: Oliver SoulasCastelli Sorpasso 2 Wind Bibtight

Q36.5 Termica Long Salopette L1 X

289 Euro I 345 gram (L) >> e.g. available from Rose

Skin to skin: the Q36.5 sits crease-free and hugs the legs perfectly. The taut, seamless straps hold the trousers securely in place. The seat pad is very comfortable. The waterproofing still works well even after several washes. The reinforced seat area is a particular advantage in off-road terrain. Because the trousers are only lightly lined and not windproof, they are more suitable for mild days or sporty rides. However, they reliably wick sweat away from the body.

PLUS Excellent seat padding; effectively wicks moisture away from the body

MINUS Only lightly lined; not windproof

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Q36.5 Termica Long Salopette L1 XPhoto: Oliver SoulasQ36.5 Termica Long Salopette L1 X

Endura MT500 Freezing Point trousers

159.99 Euro I 502 gram (L) >> e.g. available from Maciag Offroad

Enduro leads the way: The Primaloft lining warms the thighs on very cold days. Napped softshell is sufficient for the other areas. Thanks to the stretch materials, the Endura follows your every move. The extra high back stays in place thanks to the great waistband adjustment and silicone prints. The cut and leg length are great. The pit zips can be operated with one hand. The material provides good protection against splashing water. One small drawback: the Endura rustles quite loudly.

PLUS Very comfortable to wear; hard-wearing; great splash protection

MINUS Material rustles

Endura MT500 Freezing Point trousersPhoto: Oliver SoulasEndura MT500 Freezing Point trousers

Vaude Men's Virt Softshell Pants II

170 Euro I 574 gram (L) >> e.g. at Rose available

Vaude combines a pair of shorts with an integrated tight. The concept works perfectly and looks stylish too: The overtrousers fit perfectly, are cut high at the rear and can be adjusted perfectly at the waist. A long zip at the side helps with access and serves as ventilation in the upper section. The seat area is reinforced and the trousers are well protected from wind and splash water, except for the calves. The softly lined inside provides plenty of warmth, even the lower legs stay warmer than expected.

PLUS Perfect fit adjustment; well ventilated

MINUS Calf area not protected against wind and splash water

Vaude Virt Softshell Pants IIPhoto: Oliver SoulasVaude Virt Softshell Pants II

Florentin Vesenbeckh has been on a mountain bike since he was ten years old. Even on his very first tour, he focussed on single trails - and even after more than 30 years in the saddle of an MTB, these are still the quintessence of biking for him. He spent his youth competing in various bike disciplines and later his cycling career was characterised by years as a riding technique coach. Professionally, the experienced test editor now focusses on e-mountainbikes. In recent years, the qualified sports scientist and trained journalist has tested over 300 bikes and more than 40 different motor systems in the laboratory and in practice.

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