Altura Firestorm Jersey, Gilet and Bib Tights review

Altura made its name with the commuter-friendly Night Vision range, but this Firestorm kit will appeal to anyone riding through the winter season.

• Best cycling waterproof jackets
• Best gilets for cycling
• Best cycling jerseys

The jersey has plenty of appeal for its subtlety. It’s not in the obvious hi-vis camp, but the reflective details are there in full force with twin armband details of a matrix of dots made up from reflective print.

This print is repeated across the full width of the hemline on the rear, sitting just below the generous three rear pockets (with a fourth zipped security pocket on the right flank).

The fit is performance-cut without being skintight. A perfect compromise that leaves room for a thick, long-sleeve baselayer.

I’d like to have seen a bit of reflective detailing on the front, as well as the armbands, for increased visibility.

The jersey’s lack of reflectives on the front panel is combated if you add in the Firestorm gilet because the whole of the windproof front features the dot matrix reflective print.

This reflectivity continues down both flanks and on the last eight inches of the tail, so when you add the gilet to the outfit, you’re well lit up. The spine section of the gilet is also breathable mesh, so you don’t cook when working hard.

For more coverage, Altura has a lightweight Firestorm rain jacket (£79.99), which features the print for increased night-time visibility.

The Firestorm bib tights have everything I’d look for in a pair of winter longs: close-fitting cuffs with bonded polymer grippers, thick Roubaix-like fleece fabric for excellent warmth and a high-midriff panel on the front to keep chills at bay.

The reflective print panels on the calves wrap around to the front cuff too.

I’d like to have seen a bit of reflectivity higher up, but when combined into an outfit it works harmoniously together to keep you warm, comfortable and seen when it’s dark.

• Jersey: £70 / $98 / AU$126 / €85
• Bibs: £90 / $126 / AU$162 / €110
• Gilet: £50 / $70 / AU$90 / €60