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Winter gloves
With warm cycling gloves, even a cold, wet winter is fun! But which ones really keep you warm? Which ones are waterproof? And which ones provide a secure grip? We tested 10 cycling gloves for mountain biking - these are our favourites.
Chiba City Liner - price-performance hit
- Price 40 Euro >> available here
- Sizes XS to XXL
- Weight 113 grammes
- Equipment wind/waterproof; Primaloft lining; stretch cuffs; touch fingers; light padding on the palm; reflective
Conclusion Chiba City Liner winter gloves
Even though the Chiba is labelled City, it still has a good deal of off-road in it. The winter gloves are absolutely weatherproof and keep your hands warm in the long term. Rain can't harm the City Liner either - thanks to the integrated membrane. The fit is typical Chiba and extremely successful, the glove is strongly pre-shaped and feels very comfortable to wear. The synthetic leather provides a lot of grip and a good feel when braking and shifting gears. Only the inner lining slips a little on the grip in technical terrain, but it stays in place when slipping out.
GripGrab Ride WP Winter Glove - solid all-rounder
- Price 69,95 Euro >> available here
- Sizes XS to XXL
- Weight 130 grammes
- Equipment Velcro straps; wipe thumb; silicone prints; gel padding; touchscreen fingers; wind and waterproof membrane; reflective; insulating lining
Conclusion GripGrab Ride Waterproof winter gloves
The Danes deliver a solid all-rounder that is difficult to push to its limits in both cold and rain. The fit is surprisingly good for such a thickly lined glove, and the grip on the controls is also fine, even if you do have to accept small compromises when shifting gears and braking. The long, comfortable cuff is particularly pleasing. Surprisingly flexible for a waterproof glove.
Roeckl Rapallo - warm hand flatterer
- Price 59,95 Euro >> available here
- Sizes 6.5 to 11
- Weight 96 grammes (10)
- Equipment Waterproof and windproof; touchscreen compatible; silicone gripper; neoprene waistband; Velcro fastener; reflective
Conclusion: Roeckl Rapallo winter gloves
Roeckl tailors an excellently crafted and clean-cut glove for cold and rainy days. The feel is very good, but the grip on the handlebars and controls could be better. The lining creates a lot of movement in the glove on technical terrain. A slightly longer cuff would be better towards the jacket. Overall, a top model for easy trail rides in bad weather. It lacks a proper wiping thumb.
Windcheaters
Resting sweaty on a draughty summit? Or cooling down on the long descent of a marathon? A wind jacket has saved the day for many a biker. Whether super light or with extra weather protection We tested twelve models and show our favourites here.
Gorewear Lupra wind jacket - our tip for trail bikers
- Price 189,95 Euro >> available here
- Weight / Sizes 306.1 g / S-XXL
- Pack size 1150 cc
- Manufactured in China
- Equipment Partially waterproof; reflective; adjustable hood; 2 slit pockets; extended back
Conclusion on the Gorewear Lupra windbreaker in the test
Gorewear's hybrid jacket is a top choice for touring bikers looking for a higher level of weather protection. It is waterproof on the shoulders, chest and upper arms, but otherwise windproof. The fit is very good, offering a high degree of freedom of movement and a hood for over the helmet. Its slit pockets can be used for ventilation. The robust design ensures a high weight and large pack size. The Lupra is also available in an identical version for women.
Poc Pure Light Splash wind jacket - the test winner
- Price 130 Euro >> available here
- Weight / Sizes 117.8 g / XS-XXL
- Pack size 500 cc
- Manufactured in Vietnam
- Equipment Extended back; stretch cuffs; zip pocket/packing pocket; zip garage; underarm ventilation; lined collar
Conclusion Poc Pure Light Splash wind jacket
The stretchy material of the Poc is a real skin flatterer and offers plenty of freedom of movement. The lined collar is also very comfortable. The sleeves have a great cut, but the waistband is quite loose. The ventilation under the armpits is not very effective, but the Poc can be ventilated well from below via the zip. The zip is difficult to operate with one hand. Practical pack bag with minimal pack size. The almost identical jacket is available as a women's version under the name Poc Essential Splash Jacket.
Van Rysel wind jacket Racer ultralight - the inexpensive
- Price 34,99 Euro >> available here
- Weight / Sizes 129.4 g (size L) / S-XXL
- Pack size 550 cc
- Manufactured in China
- Equipment Stretch cuffs; extended back with stretch cuffs; mesh side back
Conclusion Van Rysel wind jacket Racer ultralight
Typical Decathlon: the Van Rysel offers a lot of features for little money. Ventilation zones under the arms and on the back regulate the body climate. An opening allows you to reach into the jersey pockets. Panniers, lined collar - everything on board. Thanks to the stretchy material, the Van Rysel has a bike-specific, body-hugging fit. Unfortunately, there is a seam above the elbow and you shouldn't expect too much in terms of workmanship.
Knee pads - light
Injuries to the knee are often particularly protracted. The largest joint in the human body should therefore be well protected. Our test of 12 lightweight trail protectors shows: Effective knee pads no longer have to be heavy and sweaty. These are the best models.
IXS Flow 2.0 - our test winner
- Price 95,90 Euro >> available here
- Weight¹ / Sizes 307 gram / S-XXL
- Country of manufacture China
- Equipment Removable padding; elasticated cuffs; Velcro under the knee; mesh back
- Protector / protection level² XMatter / EN 1621-1, Level 1
- Protector removable Yes
- Residual force (centre / bottom / side)¹ 9,57 / 12,4 / 14,07
Conclusion on the IXS Flow 2.0 MTB knee pads in the test
The IXS Flow 2.0 knee pad is particularly appealing due to its uncomplicated handling: put it on and it fits. It is the only protector in the comparison to have a Velcro strap below the hollow of the knee, which noticeably improves the fit. In addition, the neatly pre-shaped protector delivers top values in the laboratory. No seams get in the way when pedalling. The pad is removable, the protector is excellent. Ventilation: okay.
Seven IDP Sam Hill Knee Pads - Editors' favourite
- Price 99,95 Euro >> available here
- Weight¹ / Sizes 326 gram / S-XL
- Country of manufacture China
- Equipment extensively padded; very long sleeve; seamless mesh back; silicone cuffs
- Protector / protection level² Sas-Tec / EN 1621-1, Level 2
- Protector removable Yes
- Residual force (centre / bottom / side)¹ 11,51 / 14,9 / 12,05
Conclusion on the Seven IDP Sam Hill Knee pads
The Sam Hill Knee Pad cleverly combines two features: outstanding protection and a comfortable fit. Thanks to the extremely long sock, the knee pad sits securely on the leg, while the large protector covers a large area. A seamless mesh insert on the back provides some cooling and prevents friction when pedalling. The generous padding on the front means it quickly gets sweaty.
Troy Lee Designs Stage Knee Guard - Comfort tip
- Price 99,95 Euro >> available here
- Weight¹ / Sizes 310 grams / XS/S; M/L; XL/XXL
- Country of manufacture not specified
- Equipment long and slightly pre-shaped D3O pad; mesh back; silicone prints on the thigh
- Protector / protection level² D3O / EN 1621-1, Level 1
- Protector removable no
- Residual force (centre / bottom / side)¹ 14,93 / 13,9 / 21,15
Conclusion on the Troy Lee Designs Stage Knee Guard
The Troy Lee Designs Stage is also one of our favourites. The lightweight knee pad is extremely comfortable yet non-slip. Thanks to its airy materials, you'll be happy to wear it all day long. Only a seam in the hollow of the knee can get in the way when pedalling - be sure to try it out. The laboratory values are not the best in comparison, but the Stage would also pass the higher level 2.
Knee pads - heavy duty
Knee pads for use in the bike park or on demanding enduro rides offer a very high level of safety - and in some cases also an unexpectedly high level of comfort. We tested 8 protector models in the lab and on the trail and show our top selection here.
Ion K-Pact AMP HD knee pads - the test winner
- Price 169,99 Euro >> available here
- Weight (M) / Sizes 515 g / S-XL
- Country of manufacture China
- Equipment Velcro on OS and calf; silicone cuffs; aramid slide cap; EVA padding on sides; mesh in hollow of knee; long protector; pad can be removed for washing
- Protector / protection level SAS-Tec / Level 2 / K Type B
- Residual force (centre / bottom / side) 9.47 / 13.64 / 11.45 kN
Conclusion Ion K-Pact AMP HD
Although the Ion doesn't deliver the best values in terms of residual force, it sits extremely snugly over the knee and, thanks to its slide plate, doesn't slip down even in the event of a fall. Two well-placed Velcro straps, extensive padding and protection up to the shinbone provide an enormous amount of safety. Thanks to its anatomically pre-shaped sleeve, the K-Pact can also be used to pedal a few metres, but the back of the knee may pinch slightly. One small drawback: the generous padding comes at the expense of ventilation. Our tip for long days in the bike park.
Troy Lee Designs Raid Knee - the comfortable one
- Price 159,99 Euro >> available here
- Weight (M) / Sizes 544 g / S-XXL
- Country of manufacture Vietnam
- Equipment Velcro strap on thigh, EVA pads on sides; mesh on back; abrasion-resistant material on knee area; protector not removable
- Protector / protection level D3O / Level 2 / K-Type A
- Residual force (centre / bottom / side) 9.53 / 9.47 / 9.07 kN
Conclusion Troy Lee Designs Raid Knee
Together with the Amplifi, the Raid delivers the absolute top values in the laboratory. The high level of protection is complemented by a pleasantly snug fit and a very secure feel - thanks to ample, but not too bulky padding. The Raid is rather large, but could be tight on strong thighs. The Troy Lee can also be pedalled without pinching. The protector can only leave a pressure mark on the shin. The mesh on the back tore twice in the same place during the test. The hold would be even better with a slidecap.
Pee-friendly cycling shorts for women
An uncomplicated pit stop without having to get half undressed - that's the concept of pee-friendly cycling shorts for women. Our test includes 10 bib shorts between 130 and 260 euros - The concept works best with these models.
Pas Normal Studios Women's Essential Light Bib - the light one
- Price: 255 Euro
- Country of production: Portugal
- Weight (size S): 150 grammes
- Sizes: XXS to XXL
- Pee function / Features: Slip-on principle, comfort straps, comfort leg cuffs, latch pocket
- Upholstery length, width / hardness: 20, 13 cm / solid
Valuation
- Carrying properties (30 %): 8 out of 8 (grade: 1.0)
- Pee function (30 %): 7 out of 8 (grade: 1.5)
- Seat cushion (20 %): 7 out of 8 (grade: 1.2)
- Equipment (20 %): 7 out of 8 (grade: 1.4)
Overall grade (100%): 1.3
Conclusion Pas Normal Studios Women's Essential Light Bib
These are the lightest trousers in the test; their material feels comparatively thin and is particularly suitable for summer temperatures. They offer very good wearing properties and an inconspicuous pad, but are relatively expensive.
SQlab SQ-Short One 12 Women - dhe one with the tight cushion
- Price: 200 Euro >> available here
- Country of production: Lithuania
- Weight (size S): 170 grammes
- Sizes: XS to XXL
- Pee function / Features: Slip-on principle, comfort straps, comfort leg cuffs
- Upholstery length, width / hardness: 20, 16 cm / solid
Valuation
- Carrying properties (30 %): 8 out of 8 (grade: 1.0)
- Pee function (30 %): 8 out of 8 (grade: 1.0)
- Seat cushion (20 %): 8 out of 8 (grade: 1.0)
- Equipment (20 %): 6 out of 8 (grade: 2.0)
Overall score (100%): 1.2 (TOUR test winner)
Conclusion SQlab SQ-Short One 12 Women
The test-winning trousers fulfil the highest demands in all functional criteria, only the reflective material is missing. The thin, firm and securely positioned seat pad ensures comfort. The pit stop is uncomplicated and quick.
Back protectors
Lightweight back protectors are made for trail and enduro bikers. Airy and comfortable, they don't melt like cheddar in the sun. We have chosen the Softcon Air from Scott and the Evoc Torso Protector as our favourites after testing them.
Test of the Scott Softcon Air proctor waistcoat
- Price 170 Euro >> e.g. available here
- Weight¹ / Sizes 742 g / XS-S / M-L / XL-XXL
- Made in / Pad removable Vietnam / no
- Protection level BACK / FRONT² Level 1 / Level 1
- Residual force¹ BACK / FRONT 8.77 kn / 8.37 kn
- EQUIPMENT Mesh cover; Velcro straps with safety cover
Conclusion Scott Softcon Air
Because the Softcon Air does not have a waistcoat as a carrier material, but still offers a thin layer of fabric over the protectors, it can be worn both over and under the jersey. Surprisingly, the back AND front fulfil level 2 of the test standard in our test. This means that the Scott offers an enormous amount of protection at an extremely low weight. Only the back armour could reach a little further down.
Two stretchy Velcro straps attach the Softcon waistcoat very snugly to the body. Thanks to the high flex of the D3O pads, comfort and manoeuvrability on the bike remain pleasantly high. The Softcon is very versatile and works just as well under a shirt on technical trail tours as it does as an outer layer on rough park descents.
Test of the Evoc Torso Protector back protector
- Price 190 Euro >> at Bike Components or Rosebikes
- Weight¹ / Sizes 1111 g / S-M / L-XL
- Made in / Pad removable China / no
- Protection level BACK / FRONT² Level 2 / Level 1
- Residual force¹ BACK / FRONT 6.36 kn / 11.71 kn
- EQUIPMENT Magnetic buckles; 6 variable stretch straps; optional: back pocket with magnetic clip
Conclusion & evaluation
On hot days in the park or on enduro days, back protectors like the Evoc are a blessing - they are well ventilated and do not require an additional layer of fabric. In addition, the Torso Protector delivers excellent values in the laboratory across the entire temperature spectrum - although the injection-moulded material is somewhat less flexible overall than the foams from D3O or SAS-Tec.
MTB shoes for the trail
One MTB shoe for all occasions? Not so easy. All-round models not only have to provide plenty of power on the pedals, but also cut a fine figure when pushing and carrying. Which touring shoe best manages the balancing act between these requirements? We tested six current MTB shoes for trail and enduro useThese are our two favourites.
Scott MTB Shr-Alp Evo Boa
- Price 160 Euro >> e.g. available here at a reduced price
- Weight¹ / Sizes 896 g / 40-48
- Equipment Boa fastening; toe cap; ankle protection; side ventilation; sole with pad
- Fit Medium to wide throughout and quite voluminous
Conclusion & evaluation
Last year's test winner has been slightly revised. If the slim cut suits you, you get a top trail shoe that offers plenty of comfort and protection and is passably ventilated. The single Boa fastener holds the foot securely in the shoe. You are stable and firmly connected on the pedals. The power transmission is also perfect. Thanks to the wide cleat channel, you can easily find your way into the binding. The Shr-Alp rolls comfortably when walking, the chunky tread works on many surfaces and offers grip and traction.
Suplest Trail Performance
- Price 199 Euro
- Weight¹ / Sizes 1146 g / 37-47
- Equipment Boa twist lock; Velcro; toe cap; cleat scale
- Fit Medium width throughout, slightly more volume in the toe box
Conclusion & evaluation
The Swiss haven't had a trail shoe in their programme for a long time and now they have hit the nail on the head: top comfort, excellent power transmission and a secure footing on the pedals. The Suplest is ideal for demanding trail and enduro tours. It also impresses off the pedals with its good grip and robust construction. The combination of Velcro and Boa secures the foot perfectly in the shoe. Small drawback: high weight and little adjustment range for the cleat. For a little more protection, a slightly higher ankle area would be desirable.
Short rain trousers
Rain shorts fill the narrow gap between heat exhaustion in long rain trousers and bladder infections without protection. The range is manageable: here are two recommended models. You can find the complete test of the rain trousers here.
Gorewear Endure Shorts - our test winner
- Price: 160 Euro
- Weight: 131 gram (M)
- Extras: Storage bag, key pouch
- Watertightness: 5 from 5
It's almost boring, but this piece from the waterproof Gore line has it all. The "Paclite Plus" material is super light, packs down to the size of a jersey pocket and is relatively pleasant to the touch. Compared to the similarly long Endura shorts, they have a slimmer cut - putting them on with thick winter shoes can be difficult. The reinforced seat and waterproof finish are impressive. The low weight makes them suitable for any application.
Vaude Drop Short - the price tip
- Price: 80 Euro >> available here
- Weight: 115 grammes (50)
- Extras: Velcro leg cuffs, reflective material
- Watertightness: 3 from 5
Low weight, good cut, leg length up to the knee. A reinforced seat is also on board. Fits so far! However, in the laboratory test with a 3000 millimetre water column, the Drop Short, which has been washed several times, was not convincing - only the seat area kept the water out. The water seeped through at critical seams and even the surface was a little damp. A second, unwashed test sample was convincing in the pressure test. We have hardly ever encountered this problem with the company's own "Ceplex active" material. An outlier in the material batch?
Stefan Frey
Editor
