Craft is known for making high quality clothing, and its Storm gloves are no exception. They are thin in comparison to some winter gloves, but you soon realise you don't miss the bulk – their fit provides dexterity on the bike, while still protecting you from the wind.
They're made of a softshell neoprene fabric that is lightweight and windproof. They aren't waterproof, nor do they claim to be; they are good in light showers but will suffer in a heavy downpour.
I tested a pair of Mediums and not only are they true to fit, they're possibly the best fit I've come across. The material offers a certain amount of stretch, which is great when you're reaching for the brakes and changing gear. The inside fabric is brushed, giving that soft fleecy feeling next to your skin.
There's no extra padding, but the fabric itself is thick enough for medium length rides, and the lack of bulk means you can feel everything you're doing. They just feel very natural. The palm and finger grips give a good grasp and a non-slip feel when you're riding.
The thumb has a softer material, suitable for wiping sweat (or a runny nose). The gloves also have some reflective detailing on the top, adding to your visibility.
When it comes to warmth they really do work. The windproofing is excellent – they provide brilliant warmth on cold days. I am actually looking forward to the weather cooling to test them more. Even on fairly mild days it can still get windy, which can lead to cold hands, but these gloves offer a vital layer of protection against it.
The wrist section is long enough to pull under (or over, depending on your preference) a jacket or jersey sleeve, to stop any draughts.
The price of £30 is actually reasonable for everything you get here, and you can find them a lot cheaper if you shop around, making them excellent value.
Verdict
Warm, functional and well fitting gloves, which will be used over and over again on all but the wettest days
Make and model: Craft Storm Gloves
Size tested: Medium, Black
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
Craft says: "Smooth, windproof and water-protective glove with silicone print in palm."
There isn't much more to say really.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
Thin softshell fabric and Neoprene fabric
Gives you great protection and thermo regulation, stretchy smooth, windproof and water protection. Is also multi stretch for freedom of movement
Ergonomic, elastic fit
Elastic cuff, soft terry on thumb
Silicone print in palm for enhanced grip
Rate the product for quality of construction:
9/10
Rate the product for performance:
8/10
The windproofing kept my hands really warm.
Rate the product for durability:
8/10
Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
8/10
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
9/10
They feel very soft on the inside.
Rate the product for value:
9/10
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
The gloves are really windproof and kept my hands warm and able to function.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
The soft inner feel.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
Nothing.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? Yes
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes
Use this box to explain your score
The gloves worked really well in wind and light rain. And the price point is fair too.
Age: 35 Height: 158cm Weight: 61kg
I usually ride: Scott Contessa My best bike is:
I've been riding for: Under 5 years I ride: A few times a week I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, commuting, sportives, general fitness riding, mountain biking
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1 comments
I got a pair of these a few weeks ago, and they came just in time for the cold! I also like that they dry very fast.