Howies

Howies are reknowned for their base layers - and this NBL Half Zip Merino base layer really ticks all the boxes.

Merino base layers produced over the years have gone from strength to strength, with people raving about the quality of performance, the feel and the odour resistance. So it was with much anticipation that I eagerly opened the package when it arrived for test.

The howies Chada Chinos are a cool, stretchy pair of trousers that are at home on the bike or around town. Having said that, they probably won't stand up to endless cycle trips.

My first thoughts when pulling these latte coloured chinos on was that I needed to update the age on my road.cc profile status as I had got a year older and these strides are maybe for someone a bit more youthful and spunky (or whatever the term is nowadays).

Howies' Classic Vail Merino tee is made from merino wool and it's a good, casual option if you're likely to spend the day both on and off the bike.

There's nothing bikey about the cut of this shirt – Howies don't market it as cycle-specific. It's a pretty standard T-shirt shape, albeit fairly slim through the body – which is useful because it doesn't flap around too much when you're riding.