Funkier S-984W Winter Aqua Repellent Bib Tights

Funkier's S-984W Winter Aqua Repellent unpadded bib tights are comfortable, warm and keep you dry in lighter rain, though torrential downpours will see some water getting through.

The tights are made from a microfleece fabric that's 80% polyamide and 20% Lycra. As the name of the tights suggests, it's designed to repel water, and it works to a large extent – depending on how heavy the rainfall is.

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The legs, body and straps are all made from the same material, with the whole garment stitched together from smaller panels to ensure a comfortable fit. Because of the high cut at the front Funkier has used a black flatlock zip to make toilet stops easier. I did have to close this zip at the end of several rides, which was a bit annoying, but it wasn't noticeable while riding and didn't cause the shoulder straps to slide down.

Each ankle is secured with a large elasticated band, with a zip allowing easy entry. The ankle zips are also covered with reflective strips, improving visibility in the dark.

To be honest, I've always thought unpadded bib tights just created additional washing and generally meant you'd slide around on two pieces of Lycra, but the great thing about them is you can wear your favourite shorts underneath without getting them covered in mud/winter road grime. Even better with these Funkier tights, where it does touch the skin the microfleece material is soft and very comfortable, and the high back and front ensured that I stayed covered at all times, even when wearing a slightly short winter jersey.

> Check out our guide to more wet weather cycling kit here

The water-repellent material certainly helped driving rain bounce off rather than soak in; compared with my usual tights there was noticeably less water soaking in and bypassing my overshoes to fill my shoes during wet rides. Even during Storm Abigail's visit, the tights kept me warm enough, providing plenty of wind resistance as well as protection against the rain.

Overall these are reasonably priced bib tights that do what they're designed to. The fit is comfortable, even with my long upper body and short legs, and ensures that you remain warm during cool and wet conditions. The only downside is that front zip creeping down during two to three-hour rides, but it wasn't something I noticed until after I'd finished.

Verdict

A very good pair of bib tights that'll help you keep on cycling comfortably in bad weather