I need some new tights for wintry road(ish) commutes.
Probably not full rain proof, but definitely some wet protection.
Ideally, a cargo version with pockets on the legs (I've been spoiled by all my shorts having pockets and I don't want to go back 🙂 )
Options I've found:
Rapha Cargo Winter - Spendy, but looks like what I'm after. Has got zipped pockets on one side which might be handy
Castelli Nanoflex Pro2 - Also spendy, maybe more waterproof, no leg pockets.
Madison Roam DWR - much less spendy, my roam shorts are comfy so I know I like the pad. Might not be as waterproof as the others, but willing to try for half the price.
Anything else I should look at before I take a punt on the Madisons?
Stolen Goat Orkaan - Bioracer by another name.
I rode in in the shorts and leg warmers this morning. Might not were the leg warmers on the way home.
I also have the Rapha winter cargo tights. They're good and the pockets can be useful but I prefer the Orkaan option.
Castelli hands down, I've got 2 pairs of Nano Flex and they're still awesome after 5 years of use on and off road.
I have a pair of Castelli Nanoflex padless. Worn over shorts means I don't have to wash them after every ride. They don't appear to be available now though. Can't help with the pockets I prefer pockets in jerseys.
Galibier Mistral - so good I bought a second pair. No pockets though!
https://www.galibier.cc/product/mistral2bibs/
No pockets but I find them warm comfortable and weather resistant
I have a pair of the Rapha ones, absolutely my go to pair, I prefer the pad to any of my other tights or Castelli shorts. Only complaint is that the zipped pockets are a little small, would have just preferred two regular pockets on the rear.
Any non padded options?
I have a pair of Endura Windchill tights arriving today - apart from pocket they seem what you are after OP.
+1 for Galibier Mistral.
What's the sizing like on the Mistral? Italian or normal?
@ransos – True to size if you use the size chart
Ta. Looks like I'd be a large, which is consistent with the Galibier jerseys I have. I'm a medium in most brands so they would seem to be Italian sizing.
Mine are XXL, I'm not tall enough for my weight
The rivelo ones on sports pursuit are very good
I love my Galibier Mistrals. Super warm and they keep the water out.
padless ftw, as said up ^ there
Lusso Max Repel with or without pad or Lusso Adventure Repel bibs with pockets & reflective
Another recommendation for the Lusso Max Repel.
The Rapha Pro Team ones are also superb, they have a windproof front panel breathable rear panel on the legs which makes them really effective in a surprisingly large temperature range.
Best bit of winter kit I own.
Used in Scottish Winter conditions , 200km Audax , Rapha 500 etc.
Dry quickly in a downpour too.!!