Seal Skinz

Seal Skinz Waterproof beanie hat made me look like a radioactive Smurf. Not the most flattering effect perhaps, but it's actually just what's needed for murky commutes and training runs.

Crudely, it's the same technology that goes into the brand's other waterproof, breathable kit which for the uninitiated is a three-layer system comprising a polyester fleece, Porelle waterproof/breathable membrane and knitted acrylic outer. On paper at least, this allows sweat an easy escape while keeping rain out. The membrane is crinkly, but easily ignored.

If you've ever been to a cycling or outdoor trade show you may well have seen the lucky employees of Seal Skinz milling around in their socks in a plastic tub to prove how waterproof they are. These activity socks feature a fully waterproof membrane and are a great cold/wet weather choice, especially if your tootsies suffer on your winter rides.

Seal Skinz Activity socks

Sealskinz waterproof peak beanie

Sealskinz waterproof beanie

Sealskinz waterproof peak beanie - peak detail

These are the thinnest and subsequently, the most suitable socks in the Seal Skinz range for cycling. Ideal for cross, touring, winter training and mountain biking they keep feet bone dry and temperate without encroaching on performance cycling footwear’s snug fit. Every winter wardrobe should have a pair.

Made in the UK from wind and waterproof, breathable Coolmax, Seal Skinz hi Viz socks wouldn’t be my choice for performance road or cross racing but are just the ticket for three-seasons mountain biking, touring beyond the beaten track and more general outdoor use.

I tested the Sealskins All Weather gloves to the maximum in winter hail, a deluge of rain and wind storms. Freezing temperatures and painful hail stones bit into my exposed face, but the gloves, and my hands, stood up to the extreme winter weather. However, they weren't as waterproof as I'd hoped.