The Thermal jersey and Performance Bike Storm bibs work well together. Both have a fairly relaxed fit, and did a good job of keeping us warm. The bibs offer decent windproofing and water-resistance, although we didn't get on with the pad.
Craft Performance Bike Thermal jersey
£70 / US$TBC
Craft’s Performance Bike Thermal jersey has a soft, warm lining that does a good job of keeping you insulated. When things get too warm, the vented panels under the arms and between the shoulder blades allow heat and moisture to escape – the panel on the back is particularly effective.
Three rear pockets give you plenty storage space, and a zipped fourth pocket in the middle offers loads of secure space for valuables – and it’s large enough that you don’t have to mess around trying to cram a phone in there and pray the zip closes.
The fit is relaxed, so if you’re not a fan of a close-cut jersey, this is worth considering. During testing, it stayed in place well and remained comfortable, but we’d say that the sizing is generous.
The three-quarter length front zip is hard to shut with gloves on though there’s a zip garage at the top, so if it’s done all the way up, it can be fiddly to locate with gloves on.
The cuffs aren’t particularly tight, meaning there could be room for air to get in if you pair the jersey with a close-fitting glove. The styling is functional, which is a good way to sum up this reliable winter jersey.
Craft Performance Bike Storm bib tights
£99 / US$TBC
Like Craft’s jersey, these bib tights have a relaxed fit and the generous sizing results in a little excess material around the tops of the shins and backs of the knees. When riding hard or sprinting we noticed the tights moving in this area, although not enough to cause any discomfort or irritation.
Pads are very personal things, but Craft’s Performance pad wasn’t to our taste when it came to comfort.
The jersey and bibs both have a relaxed fit, and do a good job of keeping you warm
The legs are made up of several panels which use a windproof and water-resistant, breathable material called Ventair X-Wind which stood up well to a cold, wet morning ride down a puddle ridden canal path.
Zips at the ankles make them easy to get on and off and tall reflective strips running up the backs of the calves aid visibility. The bibs meet in the middle of the back, around the shoulder blades, which aids airflow and allows moisture to escape, so they’re ideal when paired with Craft’s jersey.
- Jersey: three stars
- Bibs: three stars
- Overall score: three stars
