These tights – and PBK’s matching ¾-length shorts – stand out among a crop of similar products because of their bright red mesh back and zip details.
Once you’ve pulled a jersey on (assuming it isn’t white), these flashes of colour are no longer visible, but some neat features still set these bottoms apart from the pack.
The four horizontal seams across the front of the legs divided opinion in the office, with some saying they spoiled the lines of the tights.
But the use of multiple panels means the legs mould well to the shape of your body, and although these tights are aimed more at roadies, extra material in this damage-prone area is particularly handy for mountain bikers.
The (bright red) TMF Gel-Line pad is very good, with deep, effective cushioning under your seat bones and decent contouring throughout, keeping comfort high and volume low.
The mesh back stops you getting too sweaty, and the fleecy lining and double thickness knees mean you can carry on wearing these tights when the temperature drops.
In fact, with a pair of baggy shorts over the top for extra weather-proofing, we were happy wearing the 3/4-length versions on a snowy December mountain bike ride. However, they lack the windproofing needed when road riding in similar conditions.
On taller riders the shoulder straps can come up a little short, and there isn't much in the way of reflective piping, but overall these are a quality pair of bottoms at a reasonable price.
