dhb Rogate glove

dhb’s Rogate make fine foul weather companions so long as you’re not fussy about warm, soggy hands. They’re made from medium weight neoprene, the stuff of diver’s wet-suits so insulate against the chill rather than keeping hands dry and these properties have kept my fingers remarkably warm in icy conditions too thanks to close fit and marginally longer cuffs.

Dexterity is on par with other gloves using arguably more technical fibres and present few problems tackling the inevitable roadside flat, toggling between computer/heart rate monitor functions but a bit of a struggle for opening energy bars and more intricate tasks.

One disadvantage of the material is that because it offers excellent insulation it can also lock the chill inside: so, if you’re putting them on with cold hands, they’ll stay that way. However, I was extremely grateful for their warmth, immersing my hand, cuff deep to rescue my son’s Lego figure from a muddy, wintry puddle. The backs are impregnated with obligatory and in many respects, essential reflective detailing emphasising hand signals along dark lane and suburban roads alike while neoprene’s absorbent qualities makes a great nose-wipe.

Flipping them over reveals a leatherette double stitched palm. These look pleasingly retro in an era of space age gel padding but to their credit are surprisingly effective, delivering all day comfort and control on all bar coverings. Middle and index fingers share the reflective silicone chevrons ensuring slip free shifting and braking meaning they’re a good bet for wet cross and mtb racing. Good cold weather gloves, they probably fall in to the marmite category, you’ll either love or hate them. If you don’t mind warm, clammy hands and neoprene’s fairly unique texture then they’ve a lot to offer.

Verdict

Good foul weather gloves that will keep the cold at bay if not the wet