Archive for category: Mens Cycling Jackets

Alé Race Nordik Mens Jacket

March 12, 2020/in Blog Post, Cycle Clothing, Cycle Jerseys and Jackets, Health and Lifestyle, Lifestyle, Mens Cycling Jackets /by Pedalnorth Website

The Alé Race Nordik Men’s jacket is superb winter garment designed for extremes and it works well in these cold and harsh conditions. Let’s start off with the design for a change, as this really is a very smart and stylish looking jacket.

ALÉ Autumn Winter Collections 2019/2020

November 15, 2019/in Blog Post, Bloggers, Cycle Clothing, Cycle Jerseys and Jackets, Health and Lifestyle, Kit Reviews, Ladies Bib Tights, Ladies Cycling Jackets, Ladies Cycling Jerseys, Lifestyle, Mens Bib Tights, Mens Cycling Jackets, Mens Cycling Jerseys, Robert Thorpe /by Pedalnorth Website

Those very clever and extremely stylish people at Italian brand ALÉ have come up with something extra special this winter. We thought that you deserved a look and so here’s a preview

Q36.5 Hybrid Que Jacket

March 9, 2019/in Cycle Clothing, Kit Reviews, Mens Cycling Jackets, Technical Kit /by Pedalnorth Website

Q36.5 Technical Cycling Jacket

The Long Sleeve Hybrid Que by Q36.5 is a garment I have a real affinity for. It was one of my first items of Q36.5 clothing, and it prompted me to explore and purchase much more of their range.

Prior to owning the Hybrid Que, there was a gap in the cycling clothing I was using when riding in the varied temperatures and weather conditions we experience in the UK, particularly during the Spring and Autumn. Not being completely comfortable when out riding or training was detracting from the enjoyment or effectiveness of being on the bike during my favourite seasons.

The Long Sleeve Hybrid Que resolved this, as it provided the fit, breathability, and protection I had been looking for, and a host of features which made it really stand out. So how is this achieved; 36.5 incorporate two of their high performance fabrics into the design of the garment. Scientific data relating to regional sweat rates of an athlete’s body forms some of what is used to ensure the optimum is achieved from these materials.

The chest, upper back, upper arms and front of forearms are formed in Unique HybridShell. This densely woven fabric is extremely wind blocking, breathable, highly water resistant, and has a ribbed fleece back. These properties are complemented by the level of elasticity within the material.

Unique Fabric L1 is utilised in the back, and underside of the forearms of the garment. It is soft to the touch, has a high level of elasticity, extremely effective at wicking moisture, and is constructed in a way that makes it resilient but lightweight. The Long Sleeve Hybrid Que is noticeably light (200g), and is shaped to be comfortable and efficient when on the bike. The Pre Shaped fit is something to factor in when you first try one; from a personal perspective, I find the on-bike fit is extremely good.

Ergogenic Pattern is incorporated into the design of the Hybrid Que. This feature serves to provide support to specific muscular groups, and reduce the effect of fatigue on these muscles, particularly on long or more intense rides. Ergogenic Pattern is noticeable by the snug feel of the garment, and how it complements on-bike position, and pedalling motion. Having used a number of items of clothing with this feature, I really value the comfort and performance it provides. This fabric and design expertise are examples of the technology that Q36.5 use to fulfil their design criteria to enable healthy body temperature to be sustained, throughout a ride.

As a rider, wearing the Long Sleeve Hybrid Que feels different. The fit, fabrics, low volume, and weight take away bulk and restriction, which is inherent to clothing used to overcome cooler temperatures and varied conditions. These properties are noticeable when getting ready for a ride, to those moments in training or riding when a turn of speed or movement feels unhindered. This adds a real positive to the cycling experience as a whole.

Within the Q36.5 website, detail is provided relating to combinations of their clothing which complement the Hybrid Que, to enable rider comfort across temperatures ranging from 5 degrees Celsius to above 15 degrees Celsius. From a personal perspective, I tend use the Hybrid Que in the middle area of that temperature range. This varies between rides when the temperature is reasonably constant, to early starts, or late finishes when the day is warming or cooling. The technical fabrics ensure comfort, and I vary the baselayer (Q36.5 Baselayer 1, 2 or 3), and add the superb L1 Vest, when temperatures dip.

The performance and versatility of the Hybrid Que is constantly beneficial, but becomes most apparent as the ride or conditions become more challenging. When descending or riding in cool temperatures or winds, the effectiveness of the wind blocking fabric and lack of front facing seams is extremely high. Should the intensity of the ride increase, the build-up of heat and moisture is managed by the fabrics and their placement, and rider comfort is maintained. This performance is something I really appreciate when riding in the hills or mountains, as is the water resistance of the garment should drizzle or low cloud drift in.

The Hybrid Que is superb for long days in the saddle, due to how comfortable it is, plus being equipped with necessary features: the pocket system, known as the Invisible Pocket System is virtually flush when not in use.

It incorporates three main cargo areas, plus a zip pocket, and has the capacity to carry essential items, numerous bars and gels to keep the legs turning. The pocket on the left arm is really useful for stashing a bar or gel, making that emergency energy boost really easy to access. Reflective tabs and thread are also integrated into the front and back of the garment.

The Hybrid Que is available in a number of colour options in both light and darker shades. When possible, I choose brighter colours for the clothing I use for road cycling. The Green Fluo was my initial choice, and I have recently added the Light Blu version.

If you are looking for a highly versatile item of cycling clothing, and something which will close a gap between your summer and winter options, the Long Sleeve Hybrid Que is really worth checking out.

Biehler Malibu Ultra Lightweight Windstop

March 7, 2019/in Cycle Clothing, Kit Reviews, Ladies Cycling Jackets, Mens Cycling Jackets, Technical Kit /by Pedalnorth Website

Biehler Malibu Windproof Jacket

Biehler are at the cutting edge of technicity and design in cycling clothing. They seem to be constantly striving to produce even better garments, that can perform at the highest level and in the toughest conditions.

Their lightweight Malibu windproof jacket is a great example of the Biehler approach to cycle clothing, being super technical, super strong, a super cool design and fitting well with other garments across the current range.

The lightand top quality material is tightly woven and does the windproofing job well, also keeping a light shower at bay when required. And, for the wicking and breathability, Biehler have used their mesh based cloth to the side panels, under the arms and across the rear shoulders. A heavier cloth at the front is complimented by lighter sleeves that are cut tight and shaped for racing, along with the form fitting overall design.

There’s a large zipped pocket to the rear, in which you can either fold the jacket or keep a few goodies.

I also love the super cool gradient colours, with the soft blue merging into the bright reds, creating a modern and stylish cycling canvas.

The collar is cut high to help keep the winds away, helping you to perform in all conditions. Best of all, the close fitting cut means there’s no flapping fabric, just a sleek and stylish cyclist.

Price wise, this is a high end garment, but we feel it’s strong, well put together and very stylish, and it’s stood up to some harsh testing here in the Yorkshire Dales – well done Biehler.

Velobici Verne Jersey

March 5, 2019/in Cycle Clothing, Kit Reviews, Mens Cycling Jackets, Technical Kit /by Pedalnorth Website

Velobici Verne Cycling Jersey

Having tried a handful of items from Velobici’s line of road cycling clothing, I was really looking forward to the Verne Jersey and Shorts becoming available. Velobici chose to release the line on St George’s day, the Patron Saint of England, which seems in keeping with the brand’s policy of manufacturing and sourcing their fabrics within the UK.

At a glance, a lot of cycling clothing can look very similar, but as with many things, it’s all in the detail. After using garments from a number of different brands, I have found that only a small number offer the fit, quality and design details that make their clothing perform really well. The Velobici Verne Jersey and Shorts are in the top tier of this category.

The Verne Jersey is manufactured from VB/Pro-VR1 (190g) fabric. This is the brand’s lighter jersey fabric grade, and the Verne is described as a Spring, Summer and Autumn garment. It’s a fabulous fabric and this plays a large part in what makes the Verne such a superb jersey. The VB/Pro-VR1 fabric is soft to the touch, stretches to assist fit, comfort, and ease of movement. It also provides UVA and UVB protection.
When using the jersey, it’s easy to notice how well the fabric transfers moisture, dries quickly and resists the wind. These qualities can really make those long days on the bike more comfortable and enjoyable.

The jersey is close fitting, and is shaped to match the position we take when on the bike. The front of the jersey is shorter to avoid fabric bunching, the rear panel longer to ensure coverage, even when riding on the drops.

Part of what makes this jersey that little bit special is its versatility and comfort. I have used it for short evening rides after work, to eight hours plus days in the hills, and during a recent trip to the French Pyrenees. It’s simply the case of putting the jersey on, place the kit you need in the pockets, after this, the garment seems to disappear. It’s that comfortable.

Great Design Features

The jersey pocket design is formed in Velobici’s very functional curved top profile. This is fabulous when carrying a rain cape, as the deeper pocket retains this type of cargo very easily. The slightly shallower pockets are great for essentials such as multi tool, bars, gels and phone. There is also a waterproof zipped valuables pocket. My personal preference is to use the pocket on the far right hand side of the jersey to store bars and gels. The location of the pocket makes it really easy to get food whilst on the move.

The jersey features a full length zip design. This makes for easy on and off, and regulating temperature. The zip runs smooth and the tab is easy to grip. This is something I noticed when looking to cool off whilst riding up one of the Lake District’s many 20% plus gradients. The zip detailing also ensures neighbouring garments are not damaged by the mechanism. This is something I have experienced with other brands; as I said, it’s all in the detail!

The majority of my cycling is done in the UK. To manage variation in temperature when wearing the Verne, I use either a t-shirt or sleeveless base layer of varying weight and fabric type. The stretch within the VB fabric ensured comfort and is not compromised when layering. However, the highlight of my cycling year is travelling to the mountains of Europe. I love being on my bike in the high mountains, and put a huge amount of effort into choosing what I believe is the optimum clothing and equipment to do this.

During the recent trip to the French Pyrenees, we experienced daytime temperatures ranging from 15 to 40 degrees C. I found that on the cooler days, the jersey and a base layer provided enough warmth (on the long descents I also used a lightweight jacket).

On the warmer days, the jersey without a base layer was the perfect option. For temperatures in the high twenties and above, my personal preference was to use jerseys which are manufactured specifically for very hot conditions. Seamless silicone grippers are positioned at the hem line and arms of the jersey. These are comfortable and efficient. A noticeable feature of this jersey’s performance is that the pockets can be loaded up with all that is needed for a long day in the saddle, and as long a little logic is applied to where cargo is placed, the jersey stays in position and keeps its form whilst riding. This was a real plus point, as the need to be constantly correcting the position of a jersey can detract from the enjoyment of being out on the bike.

Velobici offer the jersey in two colours, gold or grey. I personally like to wear brighter colours for my road cycling, so opted for the gold. The classy styling is something I really like, and the embroidered “Verne” on the arm and “VB” logo on the chest add to the finishing touches. A subtle feature which I really like, is the Velobici brand name within the arm, hem and pocket trim, which is light reflective.

The finish quality of the jersey is superb, with all of the stitching and seams being neat and consistent throughout. The care of the garment is easy, as it is machine washable at 40 degrees. The fabric retains its original look and feel really well.

Having used the Verne for a variety of rides, in the UK and French Pyrenees, I currently deem it one of the best jerseys I have ever used. I found the measurement guidance to be very accurate, and a medium jersey and small shorts are perfect for me.

Biehler Ambition Windshell Jacket

March 5, 2019/in Cycle Clothing, Kit Reviews, Ladies Cycling Jerseys, Mens Cycling Jackets, Technical Kit /by Pedalnorth Website

Biehler Ambition Windshell Jacket

Every once in a while a piece of kit comes along that is just superb. Everything about it just works, and it performs and looks the business. When it happens, you never want to let that item go. If you could, you would fill your wardrobe with lots of that item, so you always had one to wear.

The Biehler Ambition windproof jacket/jersey for men and women is one such item and I have to say, was my favourite item of clothing for 2018. I guess that I’d better tell you why then…

Let’s deal with the design and colour first then shall we; it really does look stylish and modern, with clean and simple lines and just the right blend of Biehler colours. Branding is subtle and works well, but there’s no mistaking that this is a Biehler garment. From the merging colours to the light trim on the high collars and the attention to detail at the rear, this is a quality jacket that you will want to wear … even when it’s not wet and windy!

Time to examine the technicity of the jacket. It’s a race cut design and will look good with all Biehler shorts and tights, and the material is predominantly a Windstop DryStrom fabric, which is very light, very strong and very stretchy. As well as keeping the wind at bay, it also keeps out light rain, which is a bonus. Under the arms and down the sides, Biehler have used a thicker thermal fabric to keep you warm, which does affect under arm ventilation, but it’s a balance and this jacket is designed for the wind and light rain. There’s a elasticated gel band around the waist to keep it all in place and keep you looking good.

Breathability is okay for such a technical weather garment, with reasonable air circulation, and whilst a garment like this always has a price to pay on wicking, it’s surprisingly good, and will perform adequately for you when you’re cycling hard.

With three super pockets at the back and some wide stitched cuffs, it’s a no frills jacket that does what it’s intended for and is all you can ask. Our only point is the lack of a zipped pocket to the rear, which would have been perfect. The high collar will help to keep the wind away from you, and adds a stylish finish too.

Having used this through late winter, into spring and early summer, on a mix of fast and flat routes, and on steep climbs in the Yorkshire Dales, the freedom of movement and fit is excellent, and the jacket just feels right as it performs all day long. When the wind has been blowing a gale and the rain has been threatening or beginning to call, it’s keep me comfortable. Zips are a pet hate of mine, but this has a good zipper, tough and well tucked away from the wind. Stitching and finishing add to the quality feel of this jacket, which is definitely one of Biehler’s best products to date, and something that you all should have in your cycle locker.

No, I wasn’t using Zen Buddhist contemplation pre-ride — it was just dark! Perfect then – so far both boxes ticked by this quality German brand. Fit is also an important factor in windproof and waterproof jackets. We’ve all had to endure those sail-like jackets that flap around and bellow out, making us look like caricatures of weirdo cyclists, that normal people want to avoid. With this stylish Camou jacket, the tight-fitting body-shaping multi-panel race cut is fashioned to fit closely, reducing wind drag and improving water-repellence. Under the arms Biehler have even added some 4 –way stretch thermal material to keep you warm. Just the job on cold night rides.

Biehler state that the material used in this jacket is a breath-active and slightly elastic windstop material that hears the important name DRYSTORM. All I know is that it’s top quality and does its job superbly. I’ve tested it in the cold and windy Yorkshire Dales over early winter and never been cold. It’s kept the showers at bay and fitted me like a glove — no, a well-fitting jacket.

Tackling some tough routes and steep climbs, the material was as breathable as you need for the level of waterproofing required. I never felt uncomfortable and the jacket dealt adequately with the moisture, internally and externally.

Finishing things off, the collar is cut high to maximise protection from the wind and rain, and the tough zipper is neatly tucked away too. On the back you’ve got three ample sized pockets to store things away, and the compression on the pockets is excellent, stopping that annoying sag and rattling around. There’s a top quality anti-slip rubber MicroLine gripper finish all round, holding the jacket in place.

Price wise, this is currently comes in around £120 (UK) and we think this is a great price at this quality. We definitely like this jacket, and continue to be impressed by the quality, functionality and design from Biehler, who obviously take great pride in their brand.

It’s a great jacket that will serve you well and keep the style marks high too. Now go add this to your cycling wardrobe

Biehler All Season Windshell Jacket

March 5, 2019/in Cycle Clothing, Kit Reviews, Mens Cycling Jackets, Technical Kit /by Pedalnorth Website

Biehler All Season Windshell Jacket

Biehler all season jacket is a great example of the quality from this high performance German brand.

Windshell jackets are tricky, whatever your thoughts or styling preferences. Personally I don’t always mind the ‘yellow jacket of authority’, as it has a purpose. In the main though, I like a bit of style and design to match the functionality.

All too often brands produce something below par and think that by adding their label, they can charge the earth—not so I’m afraid. The consumer is far more intelligent than ever before, and this means a little bit more work by the brands. Biehler have obviously grasped this concept and, being cyclists themselves, they’ve come up with a cracking windproof and waterproof jacket for the bleaker seasons in cycling.

First things first, the design of this jacket links in with the rest of their very stylish Camou range. So your great looking new gear design isn’t hidden away, and you can still look the cats whiskers whilst out riding— a very important point for me. Style isn’t everything…it’s more critical than that!

Another critical element for me has to be safety. Now the ‘yellow jacket of authority’ has this in spades, but fails miserably on style. So what have Biehler done to maximise your safety? They’ve created a jacket that glows in the dark—yes, it really does! Mrs Editor pointed this out to me when I was sitting in the dark, preparing for a night ride.

It’s a great jacket that will serve you well and keep the style marks high too. Now go add this to your cycling wardrobe

Q36.5 Technical Cycling Jacket

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