Slip into the Sugoi RPM Windblock Bib Tights and head out into a bitterly cold wind and you can be safe in the knowledge that your legs will be luxuriously wrapped up, protected from the elements so you can log the miles in comfort.
To provide the wind protection, Sugoi has used its own Firewall 180 softshell fabric in several shaped panels stretching all the way up the front of the legs and over the crotch area. The rest of the bib tight is a ZeroPlus Lycra.
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The wind blocking stuff is slightly crinkly and makes a rustling sound when you slip into them. It’s not as stretchy as the fabric used for the rest of the tights, but concerns that this would cause restriction when pedalling proved unfounded on the first ride. The fit is maybe not quite as perfect as other tights, but it’s not far off and the wind protection they offer means they’re warmer on certain days than many other tights.
As well as stopping the wind in its tracks (if only it was as easy to ride through) the Firewall fabric is water resistant. That makes these ideal if the weather is threatening as the tights will keep you drier when splashing through occasional puddles and against light road spray from the front wheel. They’re certainly not waterproof, but there’s more protection here than regular tights.
It goes without saying really, it’s important to keep your legs well protected in the cold, and it’s fence-bending days when you need a bit of extra insurance against the biting wind. These tights offer that extra level of protection compared with regular tights, with very little trade-off. Considering the price tag, which isn’t at all bad for this level of performance, I’d almost certainly have a pair of these in my wardrobe for grotty days.
>> Check out our guide to the best winter cycling bib tights here
The tights are held in place with wide stretchy bib straps with a full mesh back panel, and this combined with the ZeroPlus Lycra ensures there’s no chance of overheating even if you’re doing hill intervals or the temperature unexpectedly increases during an all-day ride.
The construction is top-notch as well, with flat-lock seams and good durability so far. The ankles are zipped and there are a few reflective tabs.
Inside there is Sugoi’s own RC 100 padded insert, which is quite thin but is comfortable for several long hours. It’s a one-piece construction that avoids seams, which can lead to discomfort, and it is positioned in just the right place and doesn’t move about during pedalling.
Verdict
Comfortable bib tights with a bit of added wind and rain protection – a lot of performance for a reasonable price
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road.cc test report
Make and model: Sugoi RPM Windblock Bib Tight
Size tested: Medium, Black
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?
Sugoi says:
Strategically placed Firewall 180 panels offer excellent wind blocking and thermal regulation
ZeroPlus material in back panels and waist for pedaling mobility
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
RC 100 Chamois
The RC 100 offers outstanding performance, comfort and value for everyday riding.
Brushed synthetic knit balance stability with stretch comfort.
One piece construction eliminates seams.
Four-way stretch side panels mold to body contours .
FIREWALL 180
SUGOI’s soft shells combine the mobility of stretch shell and comfort of insulation to provide sophisticated thermal protection.
Top-notch construction with two different fabrics brought together seamlessly.
For keeping the wind, and some rain, out, these tights offer great performance, and it’s at a price that won’t make your eyes water.
So far durability has been fine, and prior experience with Sugoi kit is that it’s very well made and lasts a long time.
The chamois is very comfortable but there is a slight trade-off with the use of the Firewall 180 fabric around the knees.
High performance for bad weather riding at a pretty good price.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
When it’s blowing a hooley, these tights are recommended.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
Keep my knees protected from the wind.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
Fit and comfort is slightly compromised, but only by a small measure.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? Maybe
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes
Use this box to explain your score
A lot of performance for not a lot of pennies.
About the tester
Age: 31 Height: 180cm Weight: 67kg
I usually ride: My best bike is:
I’ve been riding for: 10-20 years I ride: Every day I would class myself as: Expert
I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, time trialling, cyclo-cross, commuting, touring, mountain biking
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