Overshoes are an essential item to keep feet warm and stop rides deteriorating into frozen-toed misery. These RH+ Vermont shoe covers will do exactly that.
The RH+ Vermont shoe covers are made of 90% neoprene and 10% nylon, making them stretchy and yet tight fitting to your feet for maximum insulation. A long side zip makes for easy use and allows the hem to sit tight against your shin stopping any air flow in. The cold is certainly kept out, but don't be fooled and think these are waterproof.
The neoprene material means they act like a wet suit and actually hold water to help with insulation. This was noticeably affective in relatively light cold rain or for short periods, but like many overshoes they are lacking in persistent heavy rain. Over time the water will work its way through to your shoes and feet. I ride with them on my commute to work and no matter how cold or how heavy the rain is they do make a significant difference so I would certainly recommend them to take the edge off. Just maybe not ideal for a long weekend training ride in torrential rain.
The garish pair I had to test would not be everyone's cup of tea looks wise, but they also do them in black if you prefer. Having said that, when riding in the dark you can never have too much bright clothing on especially on my commute in Bristol. Naturally the overshoes get dirty easily and look like they fade, but a quick wash and they are back to impressive full fluorescence.
A word of warning: check the sizing. Although they stretch, it's not a matter of one size fits all since the pair I tested were tight on me and I have relatively small feet. There is also a large Velcro tab underneath which is great with a cleat opening. However if you ride mainly in mountain bike shoes with a large sole at the heel, it's easy to damage the tabs from walking on them.
Verdict
Good overshoes for cold and light rain, but struggle over time in heavy rain
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road.cc test report
Make and model: RH+ Vermont shoe cover
Size tested: n/a
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
90% Neoprene 10% Nylon
Preshaped anatomic structure
Cleat opening on sole
Velcro tabs for a custom fit to the shoe
Long side waterproof zip with camlock
Reflective applications
Well made, tight fitting and strong zips. Easy to damage the velcro tabs underneath when walking.
Again good in cold, light rain or for a short period of time in heavy rain. Once the water gets through to your shoes it's pretty much game over.
Used almost daily through the winter with commuting and only damage has come from the velcro tabs. Impressive other than that.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
Easy to put on and tight fitting making for no air flow around your feet.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.
Would you consider buying the product? No, mainly as I would want a pair for longer rides too. If I was only commuting then definitely.
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes.
About the tester
Age: 21 Height: 5ft8 Weight: 61kg
I usually ride: Cannondale Cadx My best bike is: Scott CR1 Pro
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, time trialling, cyclo cross, commuting, touring, club rides, sportives,
1 comments
Bit expensive for what you get. Similar options at lower prices all over the place.