Lusso Repel Corsa Arm Warmers

Lusso's latest Repel Corsa Arm Warmers use both the Windtex fabric found on various Lusso pieces and its Repel treatment to keep out the wind and rain. They work well and are reasonably priced too.

• Pros: Good windproofing, comfortable fit
• Cons: Narrow temperature range

Lusso has released upgrades to a lot of its autumn/winter/spring clothing range and these arm warmers are an ideal addition to something like the second generation Corsa Windtex Jersey I'm currently testing. It's a short-sleeved Gabba-style piece of apparel which, with the help of these warmers, you can turn into full sleeve.

Windtex is made by a company called Vagotex, which says this membrane regulates heat while rejecting both water and wind. Against the wind you can't really fault them, as even in the coolest of breezes your arm never differs in temperature, regardless of which part is in the wind or sheltered from it.

Temperature-wise, though, being quite thin the Corsas are good down to about 7°C, so it's not a massive temperature range like some that will go down closer to freezing. But you can keep them on for longer without starting to swelter – 14-15°C for me.

Repel is a treatment added by Lusso, and its water resistance is pretty good against light rain and drizzle, with the moisture just beading on the surface. In heavier, steady rain you'll remain pretty dry for around half an hour. They don't become uncomfortable when wet so it's not a major issue, and you don't get any colder either.

The fabric doesn't feel to have much in the way of stretch when you give them a tug between your hands, but when you pull them on they are surprisingly elastic.

I tested the medium (they are available in small through to extra-large) and they fit fine over my arms in both length and width, helped by the added central section of thinner fabric to create basically an expansion joint, which is a nice touch. It does add another seam to the mix, but as they are both soft, irritation or discomfort is never an issue.

Once in place, the upper and lower cuffs did the job of keeping them put as well.

Value-wise, at £29.99 the Lussos are great quality for the money and against the opposition, especially when you look at the small details. They are made in the UK too, which we all know can often add to the manufacturing costs.

> Spring clothing guide: How to choose and use the right kit

Similar warmers we've tested lately are the PEdAL ED Shawas at £42 or the Pearl Izumi Elite Thermals for £39.99, both of which also offer water resistance and windproofing, so it's looking good for the Lussos.

Overall, the Corsas are great for cool days when there's a chance of showers in the air.

Verdict

Great fitting arm warmers to battle the elements on cool rides