Castelli Cross Sanremo Speedsuit

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?

The Castelli Cross Sanremo Speedsuit is designed specifically with cyclocross in mind. The same comfort as the rest of the range but a number of details to help with the range of motion and flexibility within the suit. The suit is very good all round and was surprisingly versatile, meaning it could be used throughout the winter, not just for cyclo-cross.

Castelli says: "The Castelli Cross Sanremo Speedsuit is a perennial favorite here at Castelli Café, offering some extra warmth and protection not just for Cross racing but for mountain biking and spring autumn rides on the road bike, but we always felt there was one small issue, the lack of pockets made it unsuitable for longer rides or even epic races like the 3 Peaks. Thankfully this winters version keeps all the good bits and adds pockets, oh and some funky new colours too. The 'Cross Sanremo Speedsuit, its worth taking a closer look."

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

Thermoflex fleece fabric on upper body.

Single-piece construction of shorts with Action 290 fabric for stretch and durability.

Full-length YKK® Vislon zipper with large pull tab that can be easily grabbed with muddy gloves.

3/4-length sleeves to take off the chill.

Nervato fabric insert under arms allows for temperature regulation and shoulder room for off-the-bike flexibility.

Higher neck provides extra warmth.

GIRO3 single-layer sublimation-printed leg ending.

KISS Air seat pad for great protection but minimum bulk.

2 rear pockets make this a great piece for 'cross training or cool-weather rides.

High-quality suit well constructed. No issues with seams or logos.

Exceptional comfort, versatility, flexibility with range of motion. Did exactly what was needed of a 'cross-specific skinsuit.

Fits well around the body and legs. No need to worry about creasing and so on. The high neck did catch on my neck – enough to have to ride with it open, which was a little annoying.

Well fitting but does come up on the small side. Be sure to get the sizing right before buying.

With the thicker fleece material for the top half, it is naturally heavier than your average skinsuit. It's certainly not noticeable when riding, though, and the comfort benefits far outweigh the weight.

Other than the tightness when off the bike, as with any skinsuit, I can't rate the comfort higher! The seat pad is great, even on long rides, the fleece material keeps you warm through the winter, and the inclusion of flexible materials for off the bike movement is excellent.

It's definitely expensive! But when you are getting high-quality shorts and a jersey you would be spending close to that anyway. Plus this isn't just any pair of shorts or jersey, these are the highest quality with 'cross specifically in mind. You will find yourself wearing this for more than just CX rides too, so it becomes more cost effective.

How easy is the product to care for? How did it respond to being washed?

Washed well, which is a necessity for a piece of cross kit. Survived the mud and didn't run or start to peel after a number of washes.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

The versatility and the inclusion of details like pockets and stretchy material under the arms. Nice and warm for the winter too.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

The high neck line meant the suit would catch my neck awkwardly.