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review

Bioflex Zero Overshoe

7
£29.99

VERDICT:

7
10
A useful overshoe in showery or cooler conditions, but not for deepest winter
Weight: 
91g
Contact: 
www.extrauk.co.uk

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Overshoes have proven to be something of a necessity these last few months. If you want to keep riding when the elements throw all they can at you, then you'll need a decent weatherproof pair, and this Bioflex Zero Overshoe is very decent for the spring and autumn.

There is a lot of choice but finding a pair that will do it all is something of a holy grail quest. The perfect mix would prevent wind, rain and cold from making your feet uncomfortable - there is nothing worse. The Bioflex, on initial appearance, looked equipped to keep out the rain but I was dubious given their lack of thickness as to how successful they would be with the cold.

The Bioflex were a little awkward to get on at first but with the help of the two tabs on the rear, one at the bottom and the other around the closure point they were soon in place. The material is a durable, stretchy fleece that really hugs the shape of the shoe. Almost feeling as if you'll tear it but no mis-haps so far.

The snug fit certainly avoids any drag or heavy feeling once in place. The key areas that take the force of wear and tear, the toe, the join between the cleat and heel sections are both reinforced. There is a reflective pad on the heel to aid visibility for those coming up behind. The closure is by means of a zip and a velcro tab to keep everything in place.

The rain was repelled for a while but I suppose with the tighter fit it was inevitable that eventually it would find its way into my shoes. They would be more than useful in showery conditions but a heavy deluge proved too much. This is not to say they don't serve a purpose. Not a pair for the brutally cold or wet conditions but when the temperature drops as opposed to plummets or there is a whiff of showers these would be the reach for overshoes. I could see them proving useful in the summer, on the odd occasion when overshoes prove handy, so I look forward to testing them again later in the year.

However in summary, not a deep winter overshoe but any other conditions and you'll be glad of their protection. If you're not sure, the added bonus is they take up very little room so could easily be carried in a pocket.

Verdict

A useful overshoe in showery or cooler conditions, but not for deepest winter.

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road.cc test report

Make and model: Bioflex Zero Overshoe

Size tested: 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?

For the rider who wants protection from showery or cooler conditions.

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

Although made from a stretchy fleece material there is a slight concern over longevity. So far they have stood up to daily commuting. With tabs to help ease them on you then secure a snug fit with a zip.

Rate the product for quality of construction:
 
7/10

Despite a thin feel to them they are proving to be a resilient pair of overshoes.

Rate the product for performance:
 
7/10

Given the time of year they have been tested, the Bioflex have found to be wanting. However they're natural environment is not deepest winter. More of a spring, autumn pair when you need something to ward of the chill or damp.

Rate the product for durability:
 
8/10

Proving to be up to scratch in this area without concern.

Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
 
9/10

Lightweight and you wouldn't realise you have them on your feet on in your pocket.

Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
 
9/10

Tight to get on but once you have done so they are light enough to forget you are wearing them.

Rate the product for value:
 
7/10

A decent pair of overshoes for the money.

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

As a winter pair of overshoes they are out of their depth, use them in the warmer and drier times of year and they'd be great.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

Fit, they form an aerodynamic layer.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

The zip feels a little flimsy but has so far withstood constant use.

Did you enjoy using the product? I did but would do so more in spring or autumn.

Would you consider buying the product? I would.

Would you recommend the product to a friend? If they were in the market for an aerodynamic overshoe, yes.

Overall rating: 7/10

About the tester

Age: 44  Height: 178cm  Weight: 80kg

I usually ride: Currently riding a Pinnacle Evaporite Three  My best bike is: As above

I've been riding for: 5-10 years  I ride: Every day  I would class myself as: Experienced

I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, commuting, sportives, mtb, Not yet but looking to dip my toe in the world of TT

 

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