Lightweight length capris- check. Genuine urban capability and style- check. Checks- erm, check. The Caprise from Zoic offer a stylish alternative to the overwhelming majority of black length cycling offerings. With their houndstooth check they are a little more edgy, a bit more stylish than the norm, and therefore a little less obviously bikey, making them just the ticket for caf cruising, urban duties, touring or a bimble to the shops.
The lines of the Caprise are loose without being baggy, giving an almost Victorian Knickerbocker look. They ARE a pretty face, but Zoic have also managed to squeeze in a wealth of cycle specific features and design elements- enough to please every cyclist. The waist of the outer capri fastens with a zip and Velcro, but also features a drawstring waist to adjust the fit to really suit (ideal for those whose thigh and waist measurements fall in two different sizes!) and belt loops for those who like them. The legs fall just below the knee, or on the knee if you have particularly long legs, with articulation at the knee line. There are two small rear patch pockets, a pair of unobtrusive slanted side pockets and a press-stud fastening thigh cargo pocket with Velcro security pocket behind, with an outlet for an MP3 cable. There's a loop on the waistband to keep a headphone cable tidy too.
The brilliantly named Kick Ass Liner that comes with the package is easily detachable (fastening with a small press stud loop) and are also available for purchase separately so you can have multiple pairs (£30 each). Made from highly breathable mesh type fabric, the liners are lightweight and feature a soft multi-density synthetic pad. The liners have a 5.5' inseam and no leg gripper.
In wear, I was initially concerned about the feel of the Caprise at the knee. There felt like there might be an issue with binding on the leg at each pedal stroke, but the reality out on the bike was a bit of a revelation. The shaping of the material at the knee is such that they don't inhibit your knee joint at all, but slide harmlessly and fairly unobtrusively over the kneecap with each stroke, giving me no problems with discomfort. The fabric of the knickers themselves doesn't have much give, so if you're borderline on the sizing, especially at the thighs, you'll definitely want to go up a size, but with the drawstring adjustable waist this is less of a problem. The size large I tried was roughly equivalent to a UK12-14. They are comfortable to pedal in, with the padded liner giving low profile but effective protection, and they look great off and on the bike.
Currently available for £56.25 in the Minx sale. (size Large- 375g with liner/255g without)
Verdict
A versatile and stylish cycling capri with real attention to detail.
road.cc test report
Make and model: Zoic Caprise
Size tested: Houndstooth- Size Large
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?
Aimed at female cyclists (men's version available in US) looking for a stylish performance 3/4 length trouser for recreational, urban and touring cycling.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
Outer
100% polyester
14" inseam
2 rear patch pockets
2 slanted side pockets
1 thigh pocket with press stud fastening and also velcro fastening section with MP3 cable access.
Velcro and zip fastening fly
Drawstring adjustable waist with belt loops
Articulated leg with darts at knee
Liner
91% polyester/9% spandex
Mesh fabric
Moulded synthetic pad
No leg gripper
Detachable
Available for purchase seperately
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
Very well made and nicely finished.
Rate the product for performance:
9/10
Well designed and nicely conceived.
Rate the product for durability:
8/10
Ability to change liners adds to longevity.
Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
8/10
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
9/10
Genuinely comfortable when riding and also off the bike. No problems with fabric binding or tightness at knees.
Rate the product for value:
8/10
For something you'll wear a lot, not a bad price.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
Very well indeed.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
Style, cut, features, attention to detail
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
Nothing
Did you enjoy using the product? Very much indeed.
Would you consider buying the product? Definitely.
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes.
Anything further to say about the product in conclusion?
Every female cyclist should have a pair for low key bike days and cafe cruising.
Age: 37 Height: 1.65m Weight: 67kg
I usually ride: My best bike is:
I've been riding for: 10-20 years I ride: Most days I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: commuting, touring, general fitness riding, mtb,
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