Test: Autumn is already here, winter is just around the corner and weatherproof cycling clothing is becoming a priority for many cyclists. We got hold of a "complete kit" from the Danish manufacturer GripGrab and took a close look at it. How well do the Aquarepel arm and leg warmers, the RaceAquaX overshoes and the Cloudburst gloves protect against the adverse weather?
GripGrab is a company with roots in Denmark, which has been involved in the cycling clothing market since 2000 and is on everyone's lips. The three founders have made it their mission to develop functional accessories of the highest quality and to offer them at fair prices. They have been doing this for over 16 years now and have gained a lot of experience, which is incorporated 1:1 into the products.
It was up to us to test it! A few rides in wet and cold weather conditions, which we usually like to watch from the warm living room window and think to ourselves "maybe again tomorrow", have passed and in the warm glow of the wood stove you can read about our experiences with the GripGrab bad weather equipment.
Equipped with wind and waterproof arm and leg warmers from the Aquarepel series, RaceAquaX overshoes and the water and windproof Cloudburst gloves, we headed into the cool water. We have worn this combination on the road as well as off-road, which offers a wide range of possibilities. The arm and leg warmers are equipped with soft fleece on the inside and always kept us warm and dry down to temperatures around freezing point. Surprisingly, the water-repellent membrane even withstands short-term continuous rain lighting from above. Nothing has ever slipped thanks to the integrated silicone ends.
The Cloudburst gloves can be said to have the same abilities and functions, they keep you warm and the wet at bay. Another advantage is that they are not bulky like classic winter gloves. This gives you much better sensitivity when shifting and braking. Last but not least the overshoes; there is almost no more unpleasant feeling than wet or cold feet, but don't worry: With the RaceAqua X this is also impossible because they are watertight like a submarine. The overshoes with a Kevlar sole are specially designed for off-road use and, with a large sole opening, make room for the studs on the shoe. The overshoes are tight and require a bit of effort when putting them on. But that's okay - after all, they are race overcoats!
Individual prices:
GripGrab Aquarepel leg warmers: €59,90
GripGrab Aquarepel arm warmers: €39,90
GripGrab RaceAquaX overshoes: €49,90
GripGrab Cloudburst Gloves: €74,95