Ale Speedfondo Thermo £125

Last winter we tested Ale’s Be-hot tights, which are designed for a range of -3°C to 6°C and have a waterproof membrane. However, we prefer these Speedfondos which, despite being aimed at a milder 1°C to 10°C, fit better and are more comfortable with the good, thick chamois staying in one place thanks to stretchy Thermoroubaix fabric used for the whole of the legs.

By using a minimal pattern with fewer seams Ale has proved that keeping it simple works, and since last winter these tights have seen a lot of action.

There are no zips to cause lumps and bumps or to misalign with overshoes and there are no panels of stiff, technical fabric to pull at the knees when pedalling.

There are useful details such as rubber grippers inside the cuffs, raw-cut wide elastic straps, a mesh back with a radio/gel pocket and a reflective logo on the rear.

They’re not waterproof or wind resistant but on an average winter day these are all you need.

Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL www.paligap.cc