TESTING IN PROGRESS Alpinestars C-30 Drystar £85

Reed Chillcheater Transpire thermal base layers £82.50

RIDE staffers on kit they’ve been using recently

www.alpinestars.com

Waterproof, warm, subtly-styled urban gloves for under a ton which are also fully synthetic so put a big tick in my ethical box. They’re easy to get on and off, fit securely, seem reassuringly well-made and I can operate a touchscreen with them on.

So far so good. But... although they’re the right size (large), they’re a bit tight. The synthetic fabric doesn’t ‘give’ like leather does, so they’re not breaking in and I get numb fingers in my throttle hand after an hour riding. The next size up might solve the problem. Try before you buy and make sure you can make a fist but for a decent everyday cuffless glove that’s kind to animals, these do nicely. www.chillcheater.com

These British-made, fleecey-warm base layers cosseted me through last winter. After then spending summer in a drawer, they’ve recently been dug out and put back into service. I’d forgotten what a huge difference they make on cold days. Mostly polyester, plus a little Lycra for stretchy snugness, the fleece interior feels soft on skin while the smooth outer surface is easy to slide riding kit over. Keep me warm, wick sweat and don’t restrict movement. This set includes a top, trousers and a pair of socks.