You just can't get through the winter without a pair of decent tights, and Gore Bike Wear's Contest Thermo tights having been keeping our legs very warm. They're made from Windstopper fabric into a six panel design, and available with or without a built in Chamois pad. We've tested the sans-Chamois pad option because we prefer the flexibility.
Obviously fit is all important, and Gore has paid particular attention to the fit around the knees. The legs are pre-shaped with a slight bend in them, and there's extra stretchy material behind the knee area and a section that sits just below the knee on the front. It's all held together with flat non-rubbing seems, and all adds up to great fit that really hugs your legs like a second skin.
Inside, the tights are lined with a soft fleecy material which on longer rides or even in the coldest spells manage to keep your legs warm. The back of the shoulder straps are mesh lined, a six inch zip on the front makes pulling them on and off slightly easier, and the stirrups mean they stay nicely in place. There's a tiny strip of reflective material on the lower legs, and the logo is reflective: it would have been nice to see some larger sections of reflective material though.
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Comfortable, warm
More reflectivity would have been nice
