The quality of mail order giants Wiggle’s own DHB range keeps on improving. These days it deserves to be seen as a quality brand in its own right rather than simply carrying the ‘in-house’ tag.
It doesn’t seem two minutes since we had a bunch of their spring/summer range in to try out, though that’s not to say we didn’t welcome a selection of their autumn/winter gear landing on our desk. Providing you’re well wrapped up, cold weather riding can be every bit as fun as it is in the sun – honest!
First up is the Turbulence Windproof Jacket (£44.99), which comes in men's and women's options. Below is the men's version – a slimline shell made from breathable nylon designed as a top layer for cool, dry rides. Features include a low-cut back, mesh armpits, reflective details and a rear zip pocket. As with all DHB clothing, sizing is the same as you'd find on the high street, not super-skinny like with some European brands.
Better suited for when the weather turns wet is the Teflon coated EQ2.5 Waterproof Cycling Jacket (£69.99), available in black, grey or red, with contrasting full-length zip. It's described as 'medium fitted' and isn't as bulky as a lot of rain jackets. Pit zips should stop you overheating, while two inside chest pockets should keep your electronics dry. The fleece lined collar is a nice touch.
A mid-weight long-sleeve jersey like the fleece lined Momentum (£53.99, black/red/blue) is an essential piece of winter gear for any cyclist. On those crisp, dry days, providing you're wearing a base layer, a jersey like this will normally be enough. It has a performance fit, so there won't be any excess bits flapping in the wind, and plenty of reflective detailing, enhancing its outer layer credentials. Features include three rear pockets (including one with Velcro) and a small zipped pocket on the side. Also available in a women's cut for the same price.
Next up are a bunch of base layers made from 100 percent merino wool, which is increasingly popular because of its wicking and anti-odour properties. The Merino Longsleeve Zipneck Baselayer is close fitting and comfortable, and available in two levels of thickness –150gsm (£40.99) and 190gsm (£46.99) – depending on how chilly it is outside. You could even combine the two if the temperature hits rock bottom.
The zipless, round necked Merino Longsleeve Roundneck Baselayer is again available in 150gsm (£37.99) and 190gsm (£44.99) versions, as well as a short-sleeved 150gsm option (£35.99). All of the above come in blue, grey and grey marl. Women's-specific versions of the Roundneck are available.
If you end up with the Extreme Winter Gloves (£26.99) on your mitts, fair play, because it'll have to be a cold one. Fully insulated for the worst the elements can throw at you, they have an integrated waterproof membrane that'll hopefully keep the rain out. The palm surface is covered in silicone, so you shouldn't lose your grip either. For more on DHB's cold weather clothing, visit their website.
