Sugoi RS Zero Gloves

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?

In terms of keeping the wind out, the Sugoi RS Zero gloves do just that. They are well made with some reflective trim to offer a bit more visibility. All this is undone by a fit that is too narrow at the cuff and in the fingers.

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

The Sugoi RS Zero gloves have curved fingers for a more ergonomic fit and comfort when placed on the bar. The palm side of the fingers have thin rubber strips to aid grip, and reflective strips on the rear to aid visibility. Despite this the gloves are narrow, both at the cuff and across the palm. I don't have big hands, but even so finger length is on the short side which made for some discomfort. My fingers felt pressured on the tips.

The cuff itself has a Velcro tab, but the area it covers is so small that it defeats the object of having one. The opening is also narrow, which begs the question is the Velcro tab necessary?

On the plus side the palm is nicely cushioned. The reverse of the glove has a Thinsulate liner which provides the windproof protection and this works well. It keeps the chill out and your hands nice and toasty.

The seams are well stitched and the reflective trim on the back of the Thinsulate material all works well and is finished decently. The Velcro tab on the cuff is almost pointless as the cuff is narrow without needing to be secured with a strap.

The RS Zero gloves tick most of the boxes from a performance point of view. They do keep your hands warm. They aren't hugely breathable, though, so if your hands get too warm they will feel a bit clammy.

The gloves are well made, with decent seams, and the gel palms offer padding in the right areas. They've seen plenty of use and have held up well.

For a full-finger glove designed to be used in the winter months they are not heavy, though you tend to want something a bit more robust in these conditions.

The fit is the contentious part. The cuff is narrow, and too tight to need a a Velcro fastener. To add to this, for me anyway the fingers are tight and not long enough for a comfortable fit; they apply too much pressure on your digits.

At £44.99 this is at the top end of the price range even for winter gloves, but with the fit needing some work this is a steep price to pay.

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

The Sugoi RS Zero gloves do a good job of keeping your hands warm, but with the flaws in the fit it doesn't add up to a comfortable experience.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

The gel pad protection and the reflective trim on the back are nice touches.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

The fit is disappointing. It feels too tight.

Use this box to explain your score

Given the Sugoi range and expertise, the RS Zero gloves are something of a let down.