These Caratti Arm Warmers have proven to be effective. The mix of 80% nylon and 20% elastane makes for a soft inner and a windproof, water resistant outer. On some recent wet commutes, they have coped with the showers admirably; certainly enough to get you to or from work without suffering from wet limbs.
To ensure the warmers stay in place, the wrist has a supple elastic hem and on the upper arm there is a more substantial gripper which prevents it sliding down the arm. The large size has proven to be a decent fit. My arms aren't huge but the Carattis have got staying power.
The Caratti arm warmers are all that you would expect, simple and effective at keeping your arms warm but not to the point of over-heating. They have the additional bonus of being water resistant which has proven useful.
Worn under a rain jacket when I've been caught out by the showers they have proven to be breathable so you keep a regulated temperature. For £20 these arm warmers are a decent addition to your autumn/winter wardrobe.
In terms of length the arm warmers are ideal, they sit comfortably on the top of the arm and finish on the wrist. I don't have the biggest arms but the large are just right. Having a pair of arm warmers for those occasions when the temperature dictates you need them is ideal. They don't take up a lot of space, they aren't heavy and won't break the bank.
Verdict
Keep your arms warm and dry; easy to roll up so you can carry them in your pocket
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road.cc test report
Make and model: Caratti Thermal Arm Warmer
Size tested: Large
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?
Any ride where you need arm protection if you're not wearing a long sleeve jersey or jacket. The Caratti arm warmers also have the benefit of repelling water. They won't cope with torrential rain but will deal with showers adequately.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
They have proven to be effective and the mix of 80% nylon and 20% elastane make for a soft inner and a windproof, water resistant outer. On some of the recent wet commutes, the Caratti's have coped with the showers admirably. The soft grippers ensure the Carattis stay in place at the top of the arms and the elasticated hems do the same on the wrists.
There are no obvious seams so you don't get any irritation on the skin. The mix of materials used make for a soft inner without compromising on the outer effectiveness.
They are warm enough for high single digit temperatures and the water repellency is good enough to deal with showers. For an item of clothing that you might fall back on on use when it it too warm for a jacket, they are ideal.
After a few weeks use and washed the Carattis are on the whole lasting well. The only blemish is the material on the wrist end which is showing signs of fraying.
They roll up well and do not weigh a lot, coming in at 73g.
They roll up well and do not weigh a lot, coming in at 73g.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
Comfortable, easy to forget you are wearing them due to the soft inner fleecy feel.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
After several weeks the material is showing signs of fatigue, with fraying on the sleeve by the wrist.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.
Would you consider buying the product? Possibly although I would be concerned by the durability.
Would you recommend the product to a friend? As above.
Anything further to say about the product in conclusion?
Warm, comfortable and water resistant to keep you dry in most showers. Good value but lacking in the longevity stakes.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
When you're in need of arm covering but don't want to use a jacket then the Caratti arm warmers are just the job. They offer the dual purpose of being warm and water resistant.
About the tester
Age: 45 Height: 178cm Weight: 80kg
I usually ride: Currently riding a Pinnacle Evaporite Three My best bike is: As above
I've been riding for: Under 5 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