SPORTFUL FIANDRE PRO MEDIUM JACKET & NORAIN PRO BIB SHORTS
£185 ; £150 Quality cool-weather kit
Designed for Sportful’s pro teams and the rigours of the Belgian Classics, this new range from the Italian brand will appeal to British riders with the UK’s temperate climate and grimy rural roads as the Fiandre Pro Medium jacket is perfect for cool, damp conditions.
Featuring Polartec NeoShell at the front, this light yet warm wonder-fabric is both wind and waterproof. On the rear, it uses Sportful’s light NoRain material, which is highly water-resistant and beads well, yet is still very breathable. However, we found that in persistent downpours it can be overwhelmed and is suited to lighter showers.
The fit is close and, like most other Italian brands, we’d suggest sizing up. The arm length is spot on and the deep elastic cuffs hold firm over or under gloves. The front is cut high and the rear has one of the longest dropped tails we’ve ever seen, which is great for keeping road spray at bay. There are three generous rear pockets, which are well-reinforced and have reflective print details. A waterproof storm zip is backed by a windproof flap and has a garage at the high collar.
The NoRain Pro bib shorts are made from the thermal variant of the fabric, with a soft fleece lining. The bibs are a simple design but have all the necessary features, including flatlock seams. A long torso and high back keep chills at bay; the meshed brace and Y-shaped back is sized correctly but the thickly hemmed and narrow braces do, on occasion, roll. The Bodyfit Pro pad is deeply cushioned and the dimpled surface feels great against skin. Narrow cuffs feature silicone grippers and hold steady, but can be a bit of a challenge to get on and off. But overall, these do the job of keeping you comfortable and relatively dry, and they’re as good as bibs twice the price.
HIGHS
Amazingly versatile LOWS
Tights could be more windproof