Please note – This review was done as part of my role with UK Cycle Chat and the original version can be found here

With the cold weather approaching and a distinct lack of winter kit in my cycling wardrobe it was with great anticipation that I awaited the arrival of Rivelo’s Winnats bib tights, and I can safely say that from the moment they arrived I wasn’t disappointed.

Supplied in this very stylish box the first impressions were great and upon removing the tights from their packaging it’s quite clear that it’s not just the packaging that’s stylish. The Winnats looked fantastic, appeared well constructed and felt like they would be very comfortable once put on.

These are described by Rivelo as ‘premium winter cycling bib tights designed to support you through the longest, coldest winter rides’ which is a claim that I am happy to say is completely justified. I wore these tights on a number of rides varying in both length and temperature and they always performed perfectly.

From temperatures of 10^oC all they way down to 0^oC and below the Winnats always kept me warm and comfortable, and this is thanks to the Italian MITI thermo Roubaix fabric used. Even better than that though is the water repellent technology used on these tights meant that when I did get caught out in the rain (always a distinct possibility when riding in the UK), not only did I stay warm but I was also dry as well.

The pad, which is male specific, was extremely comfortable on a variety of rides varying in length from short sharp 10 mile efforts all the way up to 40 miles and above. I would say that the pad was a bit wider than I was used to, but that is more likely a function of me being between sizes than the pad design. I went with a size XL but perhaps should have sized down to L, which is something that Rivelo suggest themselves (sizing down when between sizes).

As well as comfort and style the other thing that these bib tights offer are nice little touches of class that all add up to make them a must have piece of kit for your winter wardrobe. The reflective detailing on the calves and zips at the cuff work well, and offer an added little safety element when riding in questionable conditions.

The long zip itself and the gripper around the ankle mean that not only can you create a nice seal to keep out the cold but also that the tights don’t ride up when riding. Rivelo seem to have thought of everything to make the riders experience as comfortable as possible, the stitching is flat locked and the labelling is sewn flat demonstrating a clear attention to detail that other brands don’t perhaps offer.

Whilst the price puts these tights at the higher end of the market it is safe to say that this position is entirely justified. These Winnats bib tights are stylish, they offer fantastic comfort, and most importantly they keep you toasty warm and dry during the winter months. Very highly recommended 10/10.