These Gore Contest tights use the same Gore Windstopper softshell fabric that we live in every year between October and March.
They're not waterproof, so although they do resist moisture they eventually let it through. Like all good tights though, they quickly warm that moisture and you’re kept at a comfortable temperature instead of chilling, even when the wind blows with a vengeance.
We like the buckle braces for quick-release trailside toilet moments, though they could have been a bit lower profile. We also like the addition of some lighter panels in the upper leg – away from key water areas – to aid pedalling movement, although the upper thigh area could have done with being a touch roomier.
The pad seems to be a bit thinner to compensate for the thickness of the tights, but was perfectly comfortable even on a four-hour epic rain ride. We weren’t so happy that the Velcro on our rain jacket’s storm flap immediately ‘ate’ the flat stitching just above the crotch, ruining the new look of these tights – which hurts on a £90 spend.