SPORTFUL GRAVEL OUTFIT

£155 Giara hoodie , £150 Supergiara overshorts £165 Giara Layer vest £180 Supergiara bib tights

We’re impressed with quality Italian outdoor-clothing brand Sportful’s Giara and Supergiara ranges, with their great mix of performance and casual looks for gravel riding and commuting in the colder months. Yes, they’re pricey, but they should last you for a good few chilly seasons.

Take the Supergiara bib tights (£180). The knee, thigh and midriff panels all use a thermal fleece-backed Lycra, and the knee is double thickness for extra warmth. The braces are a light mesh with a little stretch, which work well but can roll a little on the shoulder. High-density padding on the seat pad is shaped superbly and stays comfortable on long rides. Add in waterresistant coating on the lower legs, reflective panels on the calves and twin rear mesh pockets plus a thigh pocket, and you’ve got some very usable, warm, tough tights.

The Giara overshorts (£150) are very nicely styled with a flat-fronted cut and legs that gently taper, for a close fit but with ample stretch. They’re lined with a fast-drying, wicking material that works well, even on wet rides. Zipped hip pockets plus mesh side and back pockets give plenty of useful storage.

It may appear casual at first glance, but the Giara hoodie (£155) is fitted for riding, with sleeves and back long enough to provide good coverage. The cosy fabric is soft inside yet tough enough to resist pulls from brambles. The hood will fit over a helmet and twin zipped front pockets keep valuables safe, plus there are three generous, reinforced rear pockets. Reflective details make it night-ride and commute-friendly.

For extra-chilly days, the easily packable Giara Layer vest (£165) has a windproof weave and 40g insulation and is lined with a breathable thermal/mesh fabric. Again, there are plenty of pockets, with mesh ones on the chest, and three more on the back. Just beware the sizing on all of these comes up small. Similar women’s styles are available.