Winter clothing - jackets and trousers: Warm combinations for biking in the cold

More and more manufacturers are using a Primaloft or Polartec Alpha lining for winter clothing. The thin fur made from synthetic fibres is light, reliably warm, dries quickly and can replace the costly onion principle. We show 4 combinations of jacket or gilet and trousers.

What is Primaloft?

The material is considered the thinnest fibre in the textile industry and is largely made from recycled plastic bottles. One gram of Primaloft fibre is over 9000 metres long. Even when wet, the material retains its shape and 98 per cent of its insulating properties. Primaloft was originally developed in the 1980s for the US military as an artificial and quick-drying substitute for goose down and is comparable to the thermal performance of a good down. The material is extremely compressible, yet remains fluffy and dries quickly. Further information and the first Primloft jackets for mountain bikers in the test >>

What is Polartec?

In 1979, Polartec, then still Malden Mills, developed the first polyester fleece. With Polartec Alpha, the manufacturer launched its own synthetic fibre insulation on the market, which consists of a lightweight, coarse-meshed insulating fabric and is made to a large extent from PET bottles. The coarsely knitted fabric with a light pile provides space for air pockets and thus thermal insulation. The material transports moisture away from the body, while at the same time allowing a constant exchange of air. As Polartec Alpha Direct, the material lies directly on the skin without an inner lining.

1 Scott Trail Storm Insoluft AL jacket / trousers

Scott relies on the strategic use of Polartec Alpha Direct fibres for its Trail Storm suit. All areas that are exposed to the wind are protected by the insulation material, i.e. arms, upper body, thighs and side buttocks. The seat area of the trousers is waterproof, while the back of the sleeves and the side of the upper body are lined with breathable stretch material to prevent overheating. Ideal in combination with a long winter bib. Price: 149,95 Euro (Jacket)/119,95 Euro (trousers) >> also for ladies.

2 Gonso Tomar jacket and Gonso Montemuro trousers

A great combination for sporty winter training. The tight-fitting trousers with Primaloft insulation keep the thighs warm, but are flexible and breathable at the back. The Tomar jacket is similar: the thin Primaloft lining provides warmth but, in combination with airy stretch inserts on the sleeves and back, prevents heat build-up on the ascent. However, there are no waterproof inserts at the splash water entry points on the back and seat, so the combination is more suitable for dry weather. 149,95 Euro (Jacket)/149,95 Euro (trousers)>> also for ladies: Teixera/Arga.

3 Vaude Minaki III thermal jacket/ trousers

These robust and environmentally friendly pull-on shorts are warm at the front and waterproof at the back. Ventilation zips on the sides keep you cool on the uphill. The Minaki jacket combines a Primaloft-insulated front with a waterproof softshell back. Combined with vests of various thicknesses, it is ideal for trail use in almost any winter weather. Comfortable: the high stand-up collar and stretch cuffs. Price: 170 Euro /120 Euro >> also for ladies.

4 Pearl Izumi Summit Ecoloft Vest /AmFIB Alpha Pant

On mild winter days, the Summit waistcoat with its thin layer of recycled insulation is the perfect complement to the long-sleeved jersey without getting too warm. The AmFIB Alpha Pant keeps your thighs and buttocks warm with its flokati-like Polartec fabric lining. The thin softshell blocks the wind and remains pleasantly stretchy - ideal for use on technical trails. 159.95 Euro /199.95 Euro.

Less is more: 4 jackets with Primaloft or Polartec lining - Winter 2021