Polaris

The Polaris Venom is a mid-weight long sleeve jersey, featuring a brushed roubaix type fabric (which Polaris call 'Thermostretch') that strikes a good balance between insulation and breathability.

That Roubaix type layer gives the Venom an inner texture that's soft and feels good against the skin for days when a base layer isn't needed, while the outer layer includes some degree of wind resistance. A reassuringly stout, full length YKK zip is used contributing greatly to the Venom's versatility.

The Tornado jacket from Polaris is a garment for cold weather cycling. To keep you comfortable on those long winter rides, the panelling on the chest and sleeves is fully windproof.

In fact the Tornado is so good at keeping the elements at bay, when the temperature does rise it becomes something of hinderance.

Polaris PDT socks come as a trio of sport specific socks; designed with plenty of cushioning and breathability in mind. Not specific to cycling but also for running, are they capable as a jack of all trades or would you be better off just getting some cycling socks?

Like Polaris's similar courier bag, the Aquanought Backpack is a tough, welded-seam PVC bag that's 100% waterproof. It's even bigger, with a capacity of 30 litres and a couple of external shock cords that you could use to strap on a soggy commuter jacket or camper's sleeping mat.

You always know there is a bike event in town when you see loads of guys wandering around with knee high socks, shorts and maybe even sandals - it would be no surpirise if some of them were wearin Polaris's Ultra Tec Compression Socks. So, the question is are the possible benefits of wearing them worth risking arrest by the fashion police?