Made solely of neoprene, the gloves stretch to provide a tight fit around the hands. Along with a high grip matrix of dots along the underside, they provide a unique level of control compared to standard winter gloves, which can be a bit cumbersome. I found I had more dexterity moving around the bars than with other gloves that provide this amount of warmth.
In terms of warmth, the neoprene does a surprisingly good job down to most temperatures you'll get in a UK winter - only below 7°C did my hands start to get cold. One concern I had was that wind resistance wouldn't be up to much but after a few rides I can say that it is not a problem. Another benefit of the neoprene is that like a wet suit, if it starts to rain and they get wet, they still provide a good deal of warmth.
The design is fairly simple, made from a few panels of neoprene stitched with outer seams and a matrix grip design on the palms. Altura, known for their reflective gear have added a reflective pattern and branding to the finger - a welcome addition to aid visibility to other road users. There is no velcro cuff but it isn't needed, as the stretch fit seals around the wrist well.
I enjoyed using the Thermostretch gloves from Altura on faster rides and short commutes, where the tight fit and improved control works well. While the insulation is good, they wouldn't cut it on cold, longer rides. The £23 you'll typically pay for them is fair and I think they'll really come into their own on wet spring rides.
road.cc test report
Make and model: Altura Thermastretch Gloves
Size tested: Black, Medium
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?
'High stretch neoprene glove provides fantastic insulation and a great fit.'
I wouldn't go as far as to say the insulation is 'fantastic' but it is certainly good for the dexterity that remains.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
- High stretch closed cell neoprene
- Reinforced printed palm
- Reflective trim
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
Rate the product for performance:
7/10
Rate the product for durability:
9/10
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
8/10
The neoprene provides an element of cushioning on the bars and stretch fit feels great on hands.
Rate the product for value:
6/10
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
Kept my hands warm to around 7 degrees. I'd use them for fast paced rides and short commutes. Anything longer, colder and slower, I'd once something more layered.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
Tidy fit and level of control.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
I couldn't layer them with a liner glove when it did get colder - there isn't room.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.
Would you consider buying the product? Yes.
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes.
Age: 25 Height: 184cm Weight: 68kg
I usually ride: Giant TCR Advanced 1 My best bike is: Giant TCR Advanced 1
I've been riding for: Under 5 years I ride: Every day I would class myself as: Semi pro
I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, time trialling, cyclo cross, club rides, mtb,
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